How To Diagnose Anemia

Anemia is a medical disorder where a person's red blood cell count is less normal than it should be, and thus, the body is unable to produce enough hemoglobin. Normal levels of hemoglobin differ in men and women. In men a level of under 14 gram/100ml signifies anemia. In women the number is less than 12 gram/100ml. If anemia goes untreated it can lead to death.

There are essentially two basic causes of this condition. First, a reduction in the production of red blood cells or hemoglobin can cause anemia. Secondly, the loss or destruction of blood in the body can also cause this condition. In addition, Vitamin B12 deficiency can potentially lead to this disorder. Bone marrow diseases and HIV AIDS are also causes

While some people who have anemia report no symptoms, other may experience the following: tiredness and fatigue, paleness, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, hair loss and feeling generally sick. If you or someone you know has any of these symptoms, you should consult your primary care physician. They will be able to determine if you indeed have this condition.

The first step in diagnosing anemia is by performing a simple blood test, which can be done by your doctor. This blood test will determine your hemoglobin count. If your hemoglobin levels are less than 13 g/dL, you have anemia.

A second test used for diagnosing this condition, which can be performed by your primary care physician or a laboratory technician, is a complete blood cell count, otherwise called a CBC. This exam will measure: red blood cell count, hematocrit, hemoglobin, white blood cell count, differential blood count and platelet. Only the first three components of the exam will determine if the individual has the disorder.

Additionally, bone marrow testing can be employed to determine a positive or negative presence of the condition. This exam measures the amount of immature red blood cells being produced in one's bone marrow. Though this test is considered to be very effective, it is not offered in every hospital or doctor's office. And lastly, a procedure called blood smear staining can be used. This exam is employed to look at the changes in the number of the body's young blood cells.

If a patient does have anemia, a number of treatments are indeed available. First, if the cause of the condition is some other medical disorder that causes either blood loss or a reduction in red blood cells, than treating that disorder should be the first priority. Additionally, iron supplements, Vitamin B12 injections and blood transfusions can all be used as treatments.