The Most Common Blood Disorders That Affect Red Blood Cells
There are many forms of blood disorders that can affect the components of a person’s bloodstream. The bloodstream is broken down into three main components. These components are red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Red blood cells help distribute oxygen throughout the body. White blood cells help battle infections around the body. Platelets help the blood to clot in the event of a physical injury like a cut. Let’s take a look at some of the most common blood disorders that affect red blood cells and how your hematologist NJ specialist can help.
Anemia is a category of blood disorder that affects red blood cells. Anemia affects red blood cell counts by effectively lowering them which can cause serious side effects short term and long term. Here are some common forms of anemia that are seen frequently by hematologists in NJ.
Iron Deficiency Anemia
The body uses iron to increase its red blood cell account. A frequent loss of blood or low iron intake can cause iron-deficiency anemia to develop. Iron deficiency anemia can be a side effect of other diseases such as cancer or ulcers. The treatment of iron deficiency anemia includes iron supplementation and blood transfusions.
Chronic Disease Anemia
People with chronic diseases especially within the kidneys can cause chronic disease anemia. Chronic disease anemia usually doesn’t require direct treatment due to it being a side effect of your chronic illness. Hormones may be added to your current treatment plan for your chronic illness to help with blood cell production and health.
Pernicious Anemia
Pernicious anemia is a condition where vitamin B12 isn’t being absorbed efficiently through a person’s current diet. A lack of vitamin B12 in your diet isn’t necessarily due to what you are eating. Stomach issues and autoimmune issues can cause vitamin B12 to not be absorbed while being digested. Over time, nerve damage will develop due to a lack of vitamin B12.
Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic anemia is a disorder where the bone marrow doesn’t produce enough red blood cells. This can be caused by a variety of conditions such as various sexually transmitted diseases, medications, pregnancy, and so forth. Based on the severity, treatments can be medications, blood transfusions, or even transplants.
Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is a condition where an immune system attacks its own healthy red blood cells, which causes anemia. Medicines that suppress the efficiency of the immune system may be used to stop the process.
Thalassemia
Thalassemia is a form of anemia that affects the genetics of people with Mediterranean heritage. Most people have no symptoms. If symptoms are present, a regular blood transfusion may be needed to relieve them and restore healthy red blood cells.
I hope this helps!
Comments
Post a Comment