Anemia is a condition where the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin, which are responsible for carrying oxygen around the body. It can be caused by a variety of things, including chronic diseases, blood loss, or certain medications. The length of time someone has anemia depends on the cause and severity of the condition.
Diagnosis
A doctor will diagnose anemia by performing a physical exam, complete blood count (CBC) and iron panel. The CBC will measure the number of red blood cells, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. The iron panel will measure the levels of iron, ferritin and transferrin in the blood. Once the cause of the anemia is determined, the doctor can recommend a treatment plan.
Treatment
Treatment of anemia depends on the cause. If the anemia is caused by a vitamin or mineral deficiency, supplements may be prescribed. If the anemia is caused by a chronic condition, it may need to be managed with medications or lifestyle changes. If the anemia is caused by blood loss, a blood transfusion may be necessary.
Prognosis
The length of time a person will have anemia depends on the cause and severity of the condition. Some people may only have anemia for a few weeks while others may have it for months or even years. Treatment of the underlying cause is the best way to manage anemia and prevent it from becoming a long-term condition.
