Anemia - Find a Doctor and Get Information

Anemia is commonly referred to as a lack of blood. It is a deficiency of the red blood pigment (hemoglobin). This may also be accompanied by a decrease in the number of red blood cells.

Anemia leads to a lack of oxygen because the transport of oxygen to vital organs is impaired.

It is important to note that anemia itself is not a disease in its own right, but merely a symptom. This means that anemia is usually caused by other underlying conditions.

Pale mucous membranes are a typical sign of anemia @ RFBSIP /AdobeStock

It is equally important to distinguish between the different forms of anemia.

For example, there is iron-deficiency anemia. This is by far one of the most common forms. Generally, women are more likely to suffer from iron-deficiency anemia because they lose a significant amount of iron through monthly menstrual bleeding.

Anemias can also be classified as follows:

• Microcytic, hypochromic anemia: In this form, the erythrocytes (red blood cells) are too small and contain too little hemoglobin. The aforementioned iron-deficiency anemia falls into this category.

• Macrocytic, hyperchromic anemia: In this form of anemia, the red blood cells are too large and contain too much hemoglobin. Although they are able to transport enough oxygen, the liver breaks it down more quickly. This form can occur if there is a deficiency of folic acid or vitamin B12.

• Normocytic, normochromic anemia: This form is primarily characterized by severe blood loss, which causes the body to become anemic. The cells themselves appear normal.

The causes of anemia can be varied:

• There may be a general disorder of blood formation. This includes anemias caused by a deficiency of iron or folic acid.
• Kidney disease, inflammatory processes, or genetic defects are also among the causes of impaired blood formation.
• Another cause is blood loss. Bleeding, as well as certain medications, can trigger this form of anemia. When anemia is present, doctors must diagnose and treat the underlying condition.

The symptoms are just as varied as the causes of anemia. Those affected often feel listless, tired, and drained.

Headaches, dizziness, and a decline in mental performance are common in many cases. One reason for these symptoms is, not least, the insufficient supply of oxygen to vital organs.

In addition, the following signs may indicate anemia:

• Pale skin and mucous membranes
• Rapid heartbeat
• Shortness of breath or
• A so-called “varnished tongue” (smooth, red tongue)

Of course, there are also specific symptoms. In iron-deficiency anemia, for example, hair and nails may appear brittle and fragile. 

Jaundice or black stools (indicating internal bleeding) are also among the possible symptoms of anemia. 

If you experience one or more of these symptoms, you should see a doctor to determine the cause.

Possible symptoms of anemia at a glance:

• Fatigue
• Weakened immune system
• Pale skin and mucous membranes
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Brittle nails and hair
• Black stools

Treatment begins with a blood test—unless there are any external signs of anemia.

The lab then determines several values from a blood sample:

• the hematocrit level
• the red blood cell count
• hemoglobin level
• as well as other values that provide an indication of whether anemia is present

If the initial tests confirm anemia, further tests may be necessary to determine the cause. 

These include, among others:

• A fecal occult blood test (which indicates the presence of blood in the stool)
• a gastrointestinal endoscopy, as well as 
• a bone marrow biopsy

Once the cause has been identified, the doctor can begin the appropriate treatment. If blood loss is the cause—for example, after childbirth, due to stomach ulcers, or as a result of injuries—a blood transfusion is often recommended.

If there is a deficiency in nutrients such as vitamin B12 or folic acid, you can correct this deficiency with targeted supplementation. A balanced diet can also help improve blood values and minimize problems.

For types of anemia in which red blood cells break down too quickly, removal of the spleen may be necessary.

For genetic disorders, including sickle cell anemia, a stem cell transplant may help.

Possible treatment methods:

• For nutrient deficiencies: Targeted administration of nutrients
• Spleen removal
• Stem cell therapy
• Treatment of the underlying condition

People with low levels of vitamin B12 in their bodies may develop anemia @ bit24 /AdobeStock

The appropriate specialists for anemia are in the field of hematology. However, doctors from other specialties may also be involved. 

Since anemia can have various causes, an internist may also be helpful in this situation.

The primary care physician refers the patient to the appropriate specialists, who perform blood tests, other examinations, and treatment.