Anemia of chronic disease (patient information)
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Anemia of chronic disease |
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Overview
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues. There are many types of anemia.
Anemia of chronic disease is anemia that is found in people with certain long-term (chronic) medical conditions.
What are the symptoms of Anemia of chronic disease?
Anemia of chronic disease is often mild. You may not notice symptoms of anemia.
If they occur, smptoms may include:
- Feeling weak or tired
- Headache
- Paleness
- Shortness of breath
What causes Anemia of chronic disease?
Who is at highest risk?
Diagnosis
The doctor will perform a physical examination.
Because anemia may be the first symptom of a serious illness, determining its cause is very important.
Tests that may be done to diagnose anemia or rule out other causes include:
- Hemoglobin level
- Red blood count
- Reticulocyte count
- Serum ferritin
- Serum iron
- Other blood tests
When to seek urgent medical care?
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have a chronic disorder and you develop symptoms of anemia.
Treatment options
Anemia is often mild enough that it does not need treatment. It will likely get better when the disease that is causing it is treated.
The condition is rarely severe enough to need a blood transfusion.
Iron supplements may sometimes be used, but only for patients whose iron levels are low. Taking iron pills when your body does not need it can lead to serious medical problems. Always talk with your health care provider first.
For some conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, medicine called erythropoietin may be given. It stimulates your bone marrow to make more red blood cells.
Where to find medical care for Anemia of chronic disease?
Prevention of Anemia of chronic disease
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
The anemia will improve when the disease that is causing it is successfully treated.
Possible complications
Discomfort from symptoms is the main complication in most cases. Anemia may lead to a higher risk of death in patients with heart failure.