Anaemia
Anaemia is the term used for abnormally low levels of haemoglobin (Hb) in the blood.
Haemoglobin is the red, iron-containing pigment that is stored in red blood cells (called erythrocytes). The function of haemoglobin is to pick up oxygen from the lungs and carry it throughout the body to provide oxygen to all of the body's tissues. Tissues need oxygen to function, enabling them to 'burn' sources of energy (such as glucose) for work such as muscle contraction, production of secretions, conduction of nerve impulses, etc.
What causes anaemia?
There are many causes of anaemia, but in all cases, red blood cells are lost more rapidly than they are replaced. Causes can include bleeding or increased breakdown of red blood cells or decreased rate of production.
Red blood cells have a limited life - about four months - after which they are removed from the blood and reprocessed into new red cells. New red blood cells are made in the bone marrow, and their rate of production is controlled by a hormone called erythropoietin.
The rate at which the hormone erythropoietin is secreted depends on the amount of oxygen in the blood. When the level of oxygen in the blood is low, the kidney secretes more erythropoietin. A higher level of erythropoietin stimulates the bone marrow to increase production of red blood cells. When the haemoglobin level returns to normal, the blood carries more oxygen and the signal to secrete erythropoietin diminishes.
Erythropoietin is secreted into the blood by specialised cells in the kidney. This is why patients who suffer from chronic kidney disease may be anaemic. You may also become anaemic if you have cancer that is being treated by chemotherapy, or if your levels of folic acid or vitamin B12 are too low.
What are possible symptoms of anaemia?
Symptoms of anaemia include weakness, tiredness, fatigue, shortness of breath and lack of stamina. Memory and the ability to think properly can also be impaired.
In severe anaemia, the ability to carry out normal daily functions, such as climbing stairs, commuting, or housework, can be seriously impaired.
Can anaemia be treated?
Anaemia can to be treated either by receiving a blood transfusion, or receiving medication that stimulates the production of more red blood cells or erythropoiesis.
For more information see your Doctor or Healthcare Professional.
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