There has been a rise in the number of cases related to blood disorders. Also known as hematologic diseases basically affecting the blood and the blood forming organs. These diseases include complications from transfusions, chemotherapy treatments, sickle cell disease, HIV, Anemia and certain rare genetic disorders. People often are shocked about the reports revealing such unexpected cases of Anemia. It becomes necessary to expand the Understanding and awareness of different types of Anemia and preparing to tackle it collectively.
Let’s Explore the Facts of Hemolytic Anemia in Detail for better understanding
Hemolysis, the aberrant destruction of red blood cells, either in the blood vessels or elsewhere in the human body, causes hemolytic anemia, also known as hemolytic anaemia. Though it can also happen mechanically or in the reticuloendothelial system, this most frequently happens in the spleen. A condition known as hemolytic anemia occurs when the body breaks down red blood cells more quickly than they can be produced. Hemolysis is the breakdown of red blood cells.
Every component of your body receives oxygen from red blood cells. You have anemia if your red blood cell count is below normal. Your blood cannot adequately oxygenate all of your tissues and organs when you have anemia.
Your body cannot function as efficiently as it should if it does not receive adequate oxygen.
There are two types of hemolytic anemia: inherited and acquired. When parents give their offspring the gene for hemolytic anemia, the disorder is known as inherited hemolytic anemia.
In the hereditary form, the condition’s genes are passed on from parents to their offspring. Thalassemia and sickle cell anemia are two prevalent causes of this kind of anemia. Red blood cells produced by these disorders have a shorter lifespan than healthy red blood cells.
You are not born with a specific condition if you have this kind of anemia. Normal red blood cells are produced by your body, however they are eventually destroyed. This could occur as a result of:
• A serious blood transfusion reaction
Mechanical heart valves that could harm red blood cells as they exit the heart; hypersplenism, or an overactive spleen; medications like penicillin, antimalarial drugs, sulfa drugs, or acetaminophen; autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or ulcerative colitis; specific tumors; blood cancers; and infections that could be bacterial or viral
• A few forms of acquired hemolytic anemia are transient, meaning they disappear over a few months. Other kinds may become chronic (lifelong). Over time, they might disappear and reappear.
The symptoms may differ from person to person. Heart murmur, elevated heart rate (tachycardia), enlarged liver and spleen, inability to tolerate physical exertion, confusion, lightheadedness, weakness, fever, dark urine, yellowish skin, eyes, and mouth (jaundice), and unusual skin paleness or absence of colour are some of the symptoms.
Diagnosis:
Based on your symptoms, medical history, and physical examination, the doctor may believe that you have hemolytic anemia. The following tests may also be ordered by the provider:
- CBC, or complete blood count.This test evaluates a wide range of blood components.
• Additional blood testing.You could have additional blood tests if the CBC test indicates that you have anemia. These can determine the kind and severity of your anemia.
• A urine test.This can screen for iron and hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells.
• Aspiration or biopsy of bone marrow.This entails obtaining a little sample of solid bone marrow tissue (known as a core biopsy) or bone marrow fluid (aspiration). Usually, the hip bones are used to obtain the sample. The quantity, size, and maturity of blood cells or aberrant cells are examined.
Cure and treatment
The cause of hemolytic anemia will determine the course of treatment. Among the possible treatments are:
- Blood transfusions
• Drugs called corticosteroids
• Immunoglobulin administered intravenously as a treatment to boost your immune system
Rituximab
In more serious situations, the following therapies might be required:
• Splenic excision surgery
• Immunosuppressive therapy, which is medication that weakens your immune system
To lower your risk of infections and red blood cell breakdown, collaborate with your healthcare practitioner. For instance, the decomposition of red blood cells is frequently triggered by freezing temperatures. Keep your home warmer, dress warmly, and stay out of the cold to protect yourself.
Additionally, avoiding ill individuals, avoiding crowded areas, washing your hands frequently, avoiding undercooked food, brushing your teeth frequently, and being vaccinated against the flu each year can all help lower your risk of infection.
Preventive measures
The following advice will help you make the most of your visit to your healthcare provider: • Determine the purpose of the visit and the anticipated outcomes.
• Prior to the visit, make a list of the questions you want answered.
• Ask questions and keep in mind what your provider tells you by bringing someone with you.
• During the visit, note any new medications, therapies, or tests, as well as the name of any new diagnosis. Additionally, jot down any new directions you receive from your provider.
• Understand the benefits of a new medication or treatment and the reasons behind its prescription. Be aware of the adverse consequences as well.
Coping up with Anemia
After a diagnosis, the patient must be calmed and assisted in the process of managing their illness. The doctor’s prescriptions and instructions should be taken as directed, and lifestyle changes should be made. Yoga, regular exercise, and a balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables high in iron are all recommended. For patients to heal steadily, appropriate treatment and routine monitoring are required.
