Anaemia or "Kurang Darah Merah"
Anaemia (Anemia) or in Malay we called it "Kurang Darah Merah" is an intriguing condition with a variety of causes! The most common culprit is Deficiency Anaemia (IDA), but it can also stem from Acute Blood Loss, Haemolysis, Haemoglobinopathy & Bone Marrow Syndromes like Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) & Aplastic Anaemia (AA)
Did you know that our blood contains about 3.5 grams of iron? This essential element is crucial for our blood's ability to carry oxygen! So, when someone has anaemia, it simply means their body is struggling to transport oxygen effectively. Let's dive into understanding of this fascinating topic!
The cartoon depicted the common causes of iron deficiency anemia such as Pregnancy & heavy Menstrual bleeding.
It also depicted some lesser-known factors such as being born prematurely and frequent blood donation. ​
Each cause must be addressed effectively to attain healthy hemoglobin levels.
Ferritin level is the indication of the level of iron storage in our body.
Low level is very specific to diagnosis of Iron Deficiency Anaemia.
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In non inflamed candidate, level of ferritin correlate significantly with symptoms of anaemia. Eg. Ferritin level of 5, correlate with symptoms of Pica.
What are the treatment options for anemia?
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Oral Iron - this is more for simple & mild case of anaemia, the methods usually reserve for paediatric patient where the response to iron is excellent & tolerance to oral iron are much better
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Intravenous Iron - This is the best mode of treatment for most of the anaemias. It involves infusing the iron over 30 mins to 1 hour time.
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Erythropoeitin - This is a away to stimulate bone marrow to produce more healthy blood. This is done under specialized guidance of specialist involved
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Blood Transfusion - This does not treat underlying Iron Deficiency anaemia but this mode of treatment helps the symptoms of anaemia. This mode is reserve for severe cases.
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The Most important treatment options of all is diagnosing the underlying cause of anaemia & treat accordingly. E.g Patient whom troubled with heavy menstrual bleeding would be warranted to be treated simultaneously by Gynaecologists while IV iron is being delivered.