Anemia Treatment

The treatment for anemia depends on the type and cause.

• Iron deficiency anemia is treated with iron (ferrous sulphate) supplements, initially taken three times a day. If nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea or constipation occur, the medication may be taken with a little bit of food. Treatment should be continued for three to six months in order for the body to fully replenish its iron supply. As long as excessive bleeding is not present and there are no other complicating factors, the anemia will be corrected within a few weeks. However, if the iron deficiency is caused by blood loss that is not due to menstruation, the source of bleeding must be found and stopped. This may require surgery.
  
  
• Pernicious anemia, or vitamin B-12 deficiency, is treated by a life-long course of intramuscular injections of B-12. Persons with this type of anemia receive a shot of B-12 several times a week when first diagnosed. The treatment may continue for life, with one shot about four times a year.
  
  
• Folic acid deficiency anemia can be corrected by taking folic acid supplements once a day.
  
  
• Hereditary hemolytic anemias, such as thalassemia is treated by first eliminating any existing infections and avoiding medications that suppress the body's immune system. These medications may attack red blood cells. In addition, persons with these types of anemia may require regular blood transfusions.
  
  
• Sickle cell anemia patients may be given oxygen, oral and intravenous fluids and pain-killing drugs to reduce pain and prevent complications. Antibiotics are commonly prescribed as well. Sufferers will need blood transfusions when the anemia becomes severe or if misshapen hemoglobinIron-containing pigment of the red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues. needs to be replaced. In some cases, a bone marrowThe soft tissue occupying the cavities of many bones, including the breastbone. Marrow is of two types: red and yellow. Red marrow is found in spongy bones, yellow is found in the cavities of the long bones. transplant may be effective. Adult patients may be treated with the cancer drug hydroxyurea (brand names Droxia, Hydrea).
  
  
• Sometimes rare aplastic anemias and autoimmune hemolytic anemias will respond to steroids. Failure to respond to steroids may require removal of the spleenA dark red, oval organ in the upper left abdominal quadrant posterior. The spleen removes old red blood cells from circulation.A dark red, oval organ in the upper left abdominal quadrant posterior. The spleen removes old red blood cells from circulation. which can become enlarged with defective red blood cells. Aplastic anemias may require blood transfusions and medications to fight infections.