Hemolytic anemia is a type of anemia caused by the breakdown of red blood cells. It can affect people of any age, but is most common in older adults. It can be caused by a number of different conditions, including infections, autoimmune disorders, and reactions to certain medications.
Symptoms of Hemolytic Anemia
The most common symptom of hemolytic anemia is fatigue, as the body is not getting enough oxygen from the red blood cells. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, pale skin, yellowish eyes or skin, and dark urine.
Diagnosis of Hemolytic Anemia
In order to diagnose hemolytic anemia, your doctor may order a complete blood count (CBC), which will measure the number of red blood cells in your blood. Other tests may include a blood smear, which will help identify the type of hemolytic anemia, and a reticulocyte count, which will measure the number of immature red blood cells in your blood.
Treatment of Hemolytic Anemia
Treatment for hemolytic anemia will depend on the underlying cause. If an infection is causing the anemia, antibiotics may be prescribed. If an autoimmune disorder is causing the anemia, immunosuppressive medications may be prescribed. In some cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary to replace the lost red blood cells.
