Hematology branch deals with blood disorders. Iron deficiency anemia is a common type of anemia — a condition in which blood lacks adequate healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body's tissues, so a low red blood cell count indicates that the amount of oxygen in your blood is lower than it should be.

What causes anemia?

• Inadequate stimulation of red blood cell production by the hormone erythropoietin (produced by kidneys)
• Inadequate dietary intake of iron, vitamin B-12, or folate
• Hypothyroidism
• Hemorrhaging (accidents, menstruation, childbirth, surgery, etc.)
• Genetic disorders (G6PD deficiency, thalassemia, sickle cell anemia)

Daily nutritional requirements

• Iron: 8mg (men), 18mg (women), 27mg (pregnancy)
• Folate: 400mcg/DFE (adults), 600mcg/DFE (pregnancy)
• Vitamin B-12: 2.4mcg (adults)

Symptoms of anemia

• Pale skin, feeling cold
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Tiredness, trouble concentrating
• Shortness of breath, chest pains
• Increased heart rate, heart murmur

Diagnosis

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Serum iron, ferritin, vitamin B-12, folic acid tests
• Physical exam, family history
• Imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI if needed)

Treatment

• Iron, folate, and vitamin B-12 supplements
• B-12 injections (if needed)
• Dietary changes
• Blood transfusion (severe cases)
• Consult a hematologist for personalized care

For expert evaluation and personalized treatment, consult Dr. Rajesh Bollam, Hematologist & Oncologist, Yashoda Hospital, Secunderabad Hyderabad.