Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 4: Iron deficiency anemia
• Method 2 of 4: Sickle cell anemia
• Method 3 of 4: Thalassemia
• Method 4 of 4: Aplastic anemia
• Tips

Anemia is a disorder in which the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to tissues. This can lead to fatigue, dizziness and headaches. There are different types of anemia, one more serious than the other. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when there is a lack of iron in the blood, making oxygen transport difficult. Sickle cell anemia is a hereditary disease that results in irregularly shaped red blood cells, disrupting blood circulation and oxygen transport. Thalassemia is a hereditary disease in which the red blood dye (hemoglobin) is not produced properly. The body recognizes the wrong red blood cells and destroys them. Aplastic anemia is a symptom where the bone marrow no longer produces one or more categories of blood cells. Treatment can range from taking supplements to blood transfusions. Doctors know best how to treat anemia, so your doctor can recommend the best treatment for you.

To step

Method 1 of 4: Iron deficiency anemia

1. Take iron supplements with vitamin C. Vitamin C helps the body to absorb iron better.
2. Eat foods high in iron, such as spinach, red meat, and artichokes.
3. Go to the doctor if you as a woman have heavy periods. This can affect anemia, and the doctor may prescribe a contraceptive pill that will help you lose less blood during your period.

Method 2 of 4: Sickle cell anemia

1. Make a follow-up schedule with your doctor. Because the only treatment for sickle cell anemia is bone marrow transplantation, which is risky and often difficult due to lack of donors, your doctor will want to give you medicine first and monitor your health closely.
2. Follow your doctor's instructions for prescription medications. Often you will be given penicillin to fight infections, painkillers to relieve the pain and Hydroxyurea if you have severe sickle cell anemia.
3. Schedule blood transfusions on the advice of your doctor. A blood transfusion replaces and increases the number of normal red blood cells, reducing your risk of stroke and getting temporary relief.
4. Take supplemental oxygen. By getting extra oxygen, more oxygen enters the blood, which relieves pain and shortness of breath.

Method 3 of 4: Thalassemia

1. Talk to your doctor about blood transfusion if you are severely fatigued by this disease.
2. Get blood transfusions several times a year to increase the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin in your body.
3. Take iron-lowering pills. Regular blood transfusions can cause an excess of iron, which is harmful to the heart and liver.

Method 4 of 4: Aplastic anemia

1. Take the medications your doctor prescribes. Immunosuppressants are often prescribed for aplastic anemia; bone marrow stimulants and antibiotics help fight infections caused by a shortage of white blood cells.
2. Note that aplastic anemia will resolve on its own if it is caused by pregnancy or radiation therapy in cancer. This reduces blood cells, but once the pregnancy or chemotherapy is over, your blood will return to normal on its own.

Tips

• People suffering from severe anemia can benefit from experimental drugs. Always consult your doctor before trying new medications or participating in a medical experiment.