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(Go to YouTube to listen to how I found out about my severe anemia.)
One day, I felt horrible. I knew I was in trouble when I woke up from a nap feeling worse. I really thought I was going to die- or at least have a heart attack. My husband took me to the ER. They ran some tests just for me to learn that my hemoglobin levels were extremely low. Dr. James told me that I'd have to have a blood transfusion for my anemia. On and off for my whole life, I had been anemic to some degree. I remember being a little girl and having my mom try to coax me to eat liver to "build up my blood." However, I had no idea that it could get this serious.
Anemia is a condition in which the number of red blood cells or hemoglobin (the protein that carries oxygen) in the blood is below normal. This can lead to fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath, among other symptoms, as the body's tissues are not getting enough oxygen. Anemia can be caused by a variety of factors, including nutritional deficiencies, blood loss, and certain medical conditions.
The common signs and symptoms of anemia include:
Fatigue and weakness
Shortness of breath
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Pale skin Cold hands and feet
Chest pain or angina
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Headache
Irritability or confusion
Poor concentration or decreased ability to think
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
It's important to note that some people with anemia may not have any symptoms, while others may experience severe symptoms.
Treatment for anemia depends on the underlying cause of the condition.
Some common treatments for anemia include:
Iron supplementation: If anemia is caused by iron deficiency, iron supplements can be taken in the form of pills, liquids, or injections.
Vitamin supplements: If anemia is caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate, supplements can be taken to correct the deficiency.
Blood transfusions: If anemia is severe, a blood transfusion may be necessary to quickly increase the number of red blood cells in the body.
Lifestyle changes: In some cases, anemia can be treated by making changes to your diet and lifestyle, such as eating more iron-rich foods or avoiding drugs or activities that cause blood loss.
In addition to these treatments, underlying medical conditions that may be causing anemia should also be treated. It's important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific situation.
If you’re into natural, holistic treatments and remedies, here are some things you can try.
Here are some natural remedies that can help improve anemia:
Increase iron-rich food intake: Foods high in iron include red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, spinach, and fortified cereals.
Increase vitamin C intake: Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron, so increasing vitamin C-rich foods in your diet, such as oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli, can be beneficial.
Avoid foods that inhibit iron absorption: Some foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, calcium-rich dairy products, and soy products, can interfere with iron absorption and should be consumed separately from iron-rich foods.
Increase folic acid intake: Foods high in folic acid include leafy greens, fruits, and legumes.
Avoid blood loss: Stop using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen, as they can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which can lead to anemia.
It's important to note that natural remedies may not be suitable for everyone and can interact with certain medications, so it's always best to consult a healthcare professional before trying any new treatments. Additionally, natural remedies may not be effective in treating severe anemia, which may require medical intervention.
The time it takes to improve severe anemia depends on several factors, including the underlying cause of the condition, the treatment being used, and the individual's overall health.
For example, if anemia is caused by iron deficiency, it can take several weeks to several months of iron supplementation to see an improvement. In more severe cases of iron deficiency anemia, a blood transfusion may be necessary to quickly increase the number of red blood cells.
If anemia is caused by a chronic medical condition, it may take longer to see improvement, as the underlying condition must be treated first. Additionally, if anemia is due to a chronic bleeding condition, such as heavy menstrual bleeding or ulcers, it may be difficult to achieve a full recovery without addressing the underlying issue.
It's important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific situation and to regularly monitor progress.
5 Affordable Products That Can Help Improve and Prevent Anemia
Mason Natural Slow Release Iron (on Amazon)
This product is my go-to. I love to stock on this one. I never want to run out of iron pills. With 3 bottles/60 pills in each bottle, this is a great value. These tiny iron pills are easy to swallow.. And they’re slow-release, making them gentle on your stomach. Such a small investment for a supplement that can aid in improving your health.
Optimum Nutrition Women Multivitamin with Iron (On Amazon)
This company has been trusted for more than 30 years. I love this product because it pairs iron with other vitamins that offer immune, bone, cellular energy, metabolism, and muscle support. It packs in 23 vitamins and minerals.
Smarty Pants Kids Mult-Vitamins (On Amazon)
It’s nearly impossible to get every nutrient we need from the food we eat. It’s even harder for picky eaters. So, while we’re taking care of ourselves, let’s remember our babies, who happen to be some of the most finicky eaters. This multivitamin is an ideal resource. The Omega-3s are sustainably sourced. This product is Non-GMO, free of milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nut allergens, shellfish, soy, gluten, and wheat. There are no synthetic colors or artificial flavors/sweeteners. The kids love the taste and they’re easy to chew.
Iron Booster Supplement (Boost Red Blood Cell Production) (On Amazon)