It is all very well knowing what anemia is and what the causes are and symptoms of anemia can be but perhaps the most important thing, especially for those who suffer from the condition, is what actually is the treatment for anemia.
The treatment of anemia will depend upon the type of anemia it is that you have. With extreme types of anemia needing blood transfusion and minor types requiring a more balanced diet it is clear that there is no generic treatment for anemia.
What we will do on this page is provide some information on the treatments for anemia by type of anemia.
It is important to understand that is there are any underlying medical conditions that anemia is a result of then these conditions will need to be treated first.
Iron deficiency anemia
Treatment for Iron deficiency anemia is relatively straight forward and will depend upon how extreme your case is. Simple methods such as a change to your diet or having to take iron supplements can be required or for more severe cases surgery or even iron injections or a blood transfusion in the most extreme cases.
If there is any underlying cause as to why you have a low level of iron then this will need to be treated primarily because this will in turn help your condition. In most cases where a change in diet is advised by your doctor then here are a few iron rich foods to be taken into consideration:
- Eggs
- Spinach
- Dried fruit
Sickle Cell Anemia
There is no textbook treatment for sickle cell anemia and unfortunately there is also no cure. Current treatments include taking iron supplements and blood transfusions. It is also important for sufferers to take part in genetic counselling. This is where those that are at risk of the disorder are counselled about how to cope with the condition and what being diagnosed with it will mean.
Blood Loss Anemia
Preventing bleeding is the first step of treatment for anemia in such cases. This can be done externally by you or others or if the bleeding is internal then seeking medical attention will lead to surgery and likely a blood transfusion.
Vitamin Deficiency Anemia
Treatment for anemia where the cause is a vitamin deficiency is a change to your diet or having to take regular vitamin supplements. Depending on what vitamin you are lacking will depend on what you need to implement into your diet. Your doctor will be able to advise you further. Vitamin supplements are easily obtainable on-line or at supermarkets and chemists.
Aplastic Anemia
For people that have aplastic anemia the treatment involved is aimed to combat the lack of red blood cells produced by the bone marrow. This is done by making up the deficit of red blood cells by taking supplements such as vitamin B12, iron and folic acid. Therapy is also required in order to amend the chemical agent that is causing the problem. In the most extreme cases a blood transfusion is required.
Thalassemia
Thalassemia minima and minor will usually not require any treatment as the condition does not pose any problems to the health of those that suffer from them. However thalassemia major can require blood transfusions or even a bone marrow transplant. For thalassemia intermedia it is often that folic acid supplements as these help to build healthy red blood cells that the bone marrow is failing to produce.
As there is no way of self diagnosing yourself with anemia it is important thay you see your doctor who in the event of positive diagnosis will advise on the treatment for anemia that is required in your individual circumstances.