How Does a Hematologist Treat Anemia?

Anemia occurs in people who lack enough healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin to carry oxygen to each organ. It has many forms and causes, all of which can be short-term or long-term. Fortunately, a hematologist offers multiple treatment options to address all concerns.

A Breakdown of Anemia and its Treatments

A closer look at anemia

When one's red blood cells do not work properly, anemia usually follows suit. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body, providing the individual with more energy. Within these cells is a protein called hemoglobin. If there are not enough red blood cells or they are not functioning properly due to the lack of hemoglobin, the body cannot perform at its highest level.

The various types of anemia are:

• Anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency
• Anemia due to folate (folic acid) deficiency
• Anemia due to iron deficiency
• Anemia of chronic disease
• Hemolytic anemia
• Idiopathic aplastic anemia
• Megaloblastic anemia
• Pernicious anemia
• Sickle cell anemia
• Thalassemia

It is worth mentioning that iron deficiency anemia is the most common type hematologists treat.

Symptoms of anemia

Anemia can manifest differently in everyone. However, the most common symptoms are feeling weak, tired, or cold. Patients can also experience chest pain, headaches, numbness, and tingling in the hands and feet.

More severe symptoms include brittle nails, the blue coloring of the sclera (the white part of the eyes), and abnormal or increased menstrual bleeding in women. Furthermore, mouth sores, lightheadedness, and an increased feeling of eating non-edible objects are also symptoms.

Diagnosing anemia

Before determining an anemia treatment approach, the hematologist must conduct a thorough evaluation. This evaluation aims to determine the exact type of anemia one has and its severity. The evaluation can include tests, medical history reviews, and physical exams, especially if the patient exhibits the above-mentioned severe symptoms. Testing may include a complete blood count (CBC), bone marrow sampling, and blood sampling.

A CBC reveals the number of red blood cells in the blood as well as the level of hemoglobin. Though rare, bone marrow sampling aims to rule out blood-related diseases that share symptoms with anemia or cause the condition. Regular blood sampling will test the presence of white and red blood cells and determine if a vitamin or iron deficiency is present.

Anemia treatment options

The hematologist will consider any of the following as part of an anemia treatment plan; some can be employed as a standalone treatment or combined with others:

Blood transfusion

The hematologist may recommend a blood transfusion if a patient's red blood cell and hemoglobin levels are extremely low. A blood transfusion involves transmitting healthy red blood cells and platelets into the patient's body through an intravenous or IV line. The healthy red blood cells and platelets will come from a donor, usually from volunteers. Note that blood donations must undergo a rigorous testing process to ensure no diseases or infections are present before use.

Before giving the patient blood, the hematologist will ensure it matches the patient's type, such as O, AB, AB negative, etc. The transfusion can take one to four hours, depending on how much blood is necessary. Our team will monitor patients' numbers periodically throughout the session. We encourage patients to bring headphones, a book, crossword puzzles, etc.

Iron therapy

If an iron deficiency causes anemia, the hematologist will recommend iron therapy. Iron enables red blood cells to produce hemoglobin, but if its presence is too low or non-existent, hemoglobin will also not be present. Iron therapy involves transmitting iron into the body through an IV line. The number of sessions required can vary depending on each patient. Some may need one, while others need two.

Medication and vitamins

The hematologist may recommend supplements for those who need long-term care for the anemia. Often, supplements are recommended before any type of transfusion unless the case is severe. However, supplements may include iron, vitamin B, vitamin B12, or folic acid. It is important for patients to consult the hematologist before performing a trial-and-error process with over-the-counter options. A hematologist can perform safe testing and determine exactly what the body needs.

Diet changes

Along with any of the treatment options mentioned above, the hematologist will likely recommend diet changes. These will often involve adding foods to the diet rather than taking anything away. Core foods to consider, according to Healthline, include leafy greens, seafood, meats, poultry, nuts, and beans. Some patients find success in switching to a Mediterranean diet altogether. However, the hematologist can provide more specific recommendations for each patient.

Consult our hematolgist

If you have been diagnosed with anemia or believe you are experiencing the symptoms, contact our office. We provide several treatment plans to address the condition.

Request an appointment here: https://lindenbergcancer.com or call Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center at (856) 475-0876 for an appointment in our Marlton office.

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