Achrestic anemia, also known as hypochromic anemia, is a type of anemia characterized by the production of red blood cells that are smaller and paler in color than normal. This condition is caused by a deficiency of iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12 in the body, which can lead to a variety of symptoms.
One of the most common symptoms of achrestic anemia is fatigue or weakness. This can occur because the body does not have enough red blood cells to deliver oxygen to the tissues and organs, leading to a decrease in energy levels. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and pale skin.
In addition to these physical symptoms, achrestic anemia may also cause psychological symptoms such as irritability, difficulty concentrating, and depression. This is because the lack of oxygen in the body can affect brain function.
Achrestic anemia is typically diagnosed through a blood test called a complete blood count (CBC). This test measures the number and size of red blood cells, as well as other important indicators of anemia such as hemoglobin and hematocrit levels.
Treatment for achrestic anemia typically involves increasing the intake of iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12 through diet or supplements. Foods that are high in these nutrients include red meat, poultry, fish, beans, leafy green vegetables, and fortified cereals. In more severe cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary.
It is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms of achrestic anemia, as left untreated, this condition can lead to more serious complications such as heart problems. With proper treatment, however, achrestic anemia can be managed and the symptoms can be relieved.
Achrestic Anemia (Achrestic Anaemia): Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
If you have cancer, kidney failure or another chronic condition, you could be at risk of anemia of chronic disease. It's important to determine the source of iron deficiency to prevent recurrence of the anemia. This nutrient, and its synthetic form folic acid, can be found in fruits and fruit juices, dark green leafy vegetables, green peas, kidney beans, peanuts, and enriched grain products, such as bread, cereal, pasta and rice. Approach to the adult patient with anemia. Without iron supplementation, this type of anemia occurs in many pregnant women. Causes Anemia can be due to a condition present at birth congenital or to a condition you develop acquired.
Anemia
When to see a doctor Make an appointment with your doctor if you feel fatigued and you don't know why. In general, women who haven't had menopause have a greater risk of iron deficiency anemia than do men and postmenopausal women. Having an intestinal disorder that affects the absorption of nutrients in your small intestine — such as Crohn's disease and celiac disease — puts you at risk of anemia. It can be a warning sign of serious illness. Foods rich in vitamin B-12 include meat, dairy products, and fortified cereal and soy products. Depending on the causes of your anemia, you might have no symptoms. A potentially fatal form of chronic progressive macrocytic anemia in which the changes in bone marrow and circulating blood closely resemble those of pernicious anemia, but there is only transient or no response to therapy with vitamin B 12; glossitis, gastrointestinal disturbances, central nervous system disease, and pyrexia are not observed; there is little bleeding or hemolysis.