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Anemia

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Acute

What is Anemia ?

Anemia is a common condition in older adults, characterized by a decrease in hemoglobin levels or red blood cells, resulting in reduced oxygen delivery to tissues. It is often underdiagnosed in the elderly but can significantly impact quality of life and overall health.

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Symptoms

  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Pale skin
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Chest pain or palpitations
  • confusion in some cases

Complications

  • Reduced physical function and mobility
  • Increased risk of falls and fractures
  • Exacerbation of chronic conditions (e.g., heart failure, renal disease)
  • Cognitive impairment or worsening of dementia symptoms
  • Poor wound healing and increased susceptibility to infections

Causes

  • Nutritional deficiencies Iron, vitamin B12, or folate deficiency
  • Chronic diseases Kidney disease, cancer, chronic inflammation (anemia of chronic disease)
  • Blood loss From gastrointestinal tract (e.g., ulcers, malignancies, NSAID use)
  • Bone marrow disorders Myelodysplastic syndromes
  • Medication-related Chemotherapy, anticoagulants, NSAIDs
  • Unexplained (idiopathic) Especially in very old or frail individuals

Prevention

  • Balanced diet rich in iron, B12, and folate
  • Regular screening in high-risk elderly individuals
  • Prompt investigation of symptoms like fatigue or pallor
  • Management of chronic diseases to prevent anemia of inflammation

Treatment

  • Treat underlying cause Nutritional supplementation (iron, B12, folic acid), treating bleeding sources or chronic disease
  • Oral or intravenous iron therapy
  • Vitamin B12 injections or folate supplementation if deficient
  • Erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESAs) in select chronic kidney disease cases
  • Blood transfusion for severe or symptomatic anemia
  • Geriatrician review:
    • Comprehensive evaluation of anemia type and cause
    • Minimizing polypharmacy and monitoring response to treatment
    • Preventing complications related to frailty and functional decline

How is it diagnosed?

How is it diagnosed?
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