Symptoms and signs of anemia in women. What are the external signs (symptoms) of anemia in adult women and how is anemia treated? Anemia in girls

A lack of red blood cells in the blood leads to a condition called anemia. Symptoms and treatment in adult women have their own characteristics due to physiology.

Anemia and its varieties

Erythrocytes - red blood cells - contain the protein hemoglobin, one of the functions of which is to transport oxygen to organs and tissues.

All types of anemia pose a danger to health, and sometimes life.

Causes of anemia in adult women

Female anemia is not uncommon, unfortunately. It may be due to:

Of particular danger are periodic intestinal bleeding. They are not abundant and unnoticeable, but regular. Diagnosed by stool analysis occult blood. The person is weaker and “melts” before our eyes, not realizing the causes of anemia. Meanwhile, such phenomena may be symptoms of a malignant process in the intestine;

In addition to the above, there are indirect risk factors that can provoke the development of anemia:

  • diet, including foods and dishes with insufficient content folic acid, iron and vitamin B12;
  • dysbacteriosis and frequent intestinal disorders, because of which nutrients do not enter the blood in full, which negatively affects hemoglobin levels;
  • pregnancy and breast-feeding. During these periods the body requires more iron and other microelements, because it works “for two”. Monitoring a woman’s health during pregnancy and after childbirth includes mandatory research her blood for hemoglobin;
  • menopause Hormonal changes caused by aging and decline reproductive functions, causes many changes in a woman’s condition and well-being. Anemia can be one of these metamorphoses, although older women often face the opposite problem - high level hemoglobin, which also relates to health problems;
  • severe pathologies of the liver, kidneys and other organs in which a person loses blood;
  • genetic predisposition. Some types of anemia can be inherited.

Pregnant women constitute a special category in terms of risks. When discussing the dangers of anemia for women when carrying a child, it is worth noting that the associated lack of oxygen has a detrimental effect, among other things, on the formation of the placenta and the health of the unborn baby. The danger of fetal hypoxia increases, and therefore central nervous system disorders in the future. Among other things, anemia weakens labor future mother.

A timely visit to a doctor will normalize the condition and avoid complications.

Treatment of anemia in adults

Therapy for anemia begins with normalizing the regimen and diet. It is necessary to eat regularly and fully, certainly including foods with high content iron and vitamin A. With mild degree Anemia is often enough to restore health.

When there is no improvement, the doctor may prescribe pharmaceutical drugs, affecting the composition of the blood and contributing to the normalization of hemoglobin levels. In difficult cases, hormone therapy is also indicated.

Only a doctor knows how to treat anemia. When choosing means and methods of therapy, the specialist takes into account everything related to the woman’s health condition. Sometimes consultations with a gynecologist and endocrinologist are required.

In the posthemorrhagic form, in addition to everything else, blood transfusions are used.

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Prevention of anemia

To protect yourself from the risk of anemia, every woman must:

  • organize your diet and lifestyle correctly so that the body receives everything it needs for normal functioning. Food should be rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals. Doctors believe that daily ration an adult should include at least half a kilogram fresh vegetables and fruits, regardless of the season. This will strengthen the body and avoid many health problems;
  • during pregnancy with precision follow medical recommendations regarding the diagnosis and prevention of pathological conditions, which include anemia. This will allow you to keep your own body in order, as well as bear and give birth to a healthy baby without any problems;
  • when the first ones appear anxiety symptoms see a doctor, treat responsibly diagnostic procedures and therapy.

Attentive and careful attitude towards your own body will make your life full, long and happy.

Anemia is a common condition in women; the main sign of pathology is a decrease in hemoglobin levels in the blood. She can't be named independent disease, but rather a syndrome of many diseases and at the same time the cause of many dangerous conditions.

IN colloquial speech anemia is often called anemia. This is due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the blood and the resulting oxygen deficiency. Women, both young girls and ladies over 40 years old, are especially susceptible to this pathological condition. Most often this concerns those whose bodies do not have enough strength for themselves and for the child.

Types of anemia

Based on severity, anemia can be divided into three groups:

  • 1st degree, when the deviation of the hemoglobin level from the norm is less than a fifth;
  • 2 degrees, in which the hemoglobin level is 20–40% below normal;
  • 3 degrees, when the deviation exceeds 40%.

The gradation of severity is expressed in relative terms, because the normal level of hemoglobin in the blood varies depending on gender and age.

Depending on the reasons underlying anemia in women, the following types are distinguished:

  • iron deficiency;
  • aplastic;
  • posthemorrhagic;
  • hemolytic;
  • folate deficiency;
  • with B12 deficiency.

Iron deficiency anemia is caused by a lack of iron in the body. This may occur due to an increased need for it, for example, during the period of active teenage growth or pregnancy. It is often associated with eating disorders, diets that lead to insufficient intake of this element.

Aplastic anemia is caused by disease hematopoietic system associated with damage to bone marrow cells. This is the most severe form of anemia, which in 80% of cases leads to fatal outcome. But it is extremely rare.

Posthemorrhagic anemia is associated with serious blood loss, which could be caused by internal or external bleeding, resulting from injury or exacerbation of chronic diseases, such as stomach ulcers. In women, it often occurs with gynecological diseases accompanied by uterine bleeding.

Hemolytic anemia occurs during contraction life cycle red blood cells This type of pathology is very rare and can also be hereditary or acquired.

The last two types of anemia are associated with a deficiency of folic acid and vitamin B12 in the body, respectively. The lack of these substances leads to disruption of the normal process of red blood cell maturation, which is enhanced in the presence of aggravating factors. This influence includes pregnancy, increased physical and mental stress, and chronic diseases.


Causes of anemia

The condition of insufficient hemoglobin can be accompanied by symptoms, each of which has its own causes and aggravating factors. But we can highlight a number common reasons anemia that causes disturbances in a woman’s body:

  • heredity;
  • eating disorders;
  • increased mental and physical exercise;
  • some conditions accompanied by an increased need for nutrition of body cells;
  • negative factors environment, ecology;
  • chronic diseases and their exacerbations;
  • past infectious diseases.

In women over 40 years of age, anemia can be caused by hormonal changes, a slowdown in metabolism, as well as the development oncological diseases. During this period, you should be especially attentive to your health and prevent existing chronic ailments from becoming neglected.

Depending on the severity and nature of the causes of anemia, the manifestations of symptoms and treatment methods will vary. A pathological condition can be caused by both errors in lifestyle and nutrition, and dangerous diseases. Therefore, when the first suspicious signs appear, you should consult a doctor.

Symptoms of anemia

Anemia for a long time may not have bright severe symptoms, which is why it is easy to confuse it with ordinary malaise and fatigue. Some forms of anemia also have specific symptoms. There are the following general signs anemia in women:

  • weakness and malaise;
  • increased fatigue;
  • decreased ability to withstand physical activity;
  • dizziness;
  • drowsiness;
  • changes in taste sensations;
  • sweating;
  • shortness of breath;
  • increased heart rate;
  • difficulty swallowing;
  • darkening of the eyes and fainting;
  • deterioration of hair and nails;
  • menstrual irregularities;
  • decreased appetite.

There are also a number specific symptoms, which appear when certain types anemia:

  • with posthemorrhagic anemia, pale skin is observed, low temperature body, vomiting, digestive disorders;
  • with the iron deficiency type, tinnitus, muscle weakness, flaking of the skin, and cyanosis under the eyes are observed;
  • hypoplastic anemia is characterized by ulcers in the mouth, nose, and skin;
  • with the hemolytic form, there are signs of liver dysfunction, enlarged spleen, chills;
  • with vitamin deficiency and anemia, digestive disorders are expressed, bad memory and coordination.

The severity of symptoms depends on the severity and duration pathological condition. Therefore, only professional diagnostics can determine the presence of a problem.

Diagnosis of anemia

If you suspect anemia, you should consult a physician. He will prescribe a general and biochemical blood test, which will accurately determine the presence and severity of the disease.

To determine the type and causes of pathology, an examination is carried out, if necessary. digestive tract, skin, study of heredity and medical history.

The type of anemia can only be determined by a doctor based on an analysis of the collected data. Depending on the type and causes, an individual treatment strategy will be selected. If there are risk factors for anemia or evidence of the disease in the past, it is necessary to monitor hemoglobin levels at least once a year.


Treatment of anemia

IN general view treatment comes down to combating iron deficiency in the body. Sometimes a simple diet is enough for this, and in some cases serious drug therapy. An important condition successful treatment is to eliminate the root cause of this condition.

So it comes down to this:

  1. Determination of the cause and its elimination, treatment of the underlying disease.
  2. Identification of the stage of anemia and the required degree of therapeutic intervention.
  3. Drawing up a diet and proper nutrition plan.
  4. Prescription of iron supplements and agents that improve its absorption.

Drug therapy usually takes from several months to six months. Iron containing products are used in different forms release. In the most severe cases, it is recommended to use injections.

Nutrition for anemia

Proper nutrition for anemia in women will allow you to cope with a low stage of anemia without the use of special medications. Iron is found in both meat and plant foods. However, anemia is more common among vegetarians.

  • red meat (veal, beef);
  • beef liver;
  • Fish and seafood;
  • eggs and dairy products.

But many herbal products rich in iron. Legumes and cereals are especially useful: buckwheat, oatmeal, wheat, barley, rice. Fruits and vegetables are healthy whole and in freshly squeezed juices.


Of particular note is the pomegranate and beet juice. You need to be careful with the latter because of its high biological activity. The use of fresh juices must be agreed upon with a gastroenterologist.

The following types of fruits are rich in iron:

  • apples;
  • grape;
  • pomegranate;
  • peaches;
  • citrus;
  • persimmon.

TO useful products include red and orange vegetables: beets, carrots, pumpkin, tomatoes. Berries, nuts and dried fruits are also recommended. It is advisable to drink herbal or berry tea, and avoid coffee altogether.

Cannot be consumed junk food, fried, spicy and fatty. Must be adhered to general recommendations healthy eating and lifestyle. It is also necessary to remember that in order to absorb the iron entering the body, it is necessary sufficient quantity vitamins The main vitamins involved in metabolic processes include folic acid, vitamin C, as well as B6 and B12.

Vitamin C plays important role and in normal functioning immune system. Its sources are not only citrus fruits, but also rose hips, greens, cabbage, currants, sea buckthorn, viburnum, and kiwi.

Folk remedies for treating anemia

Folk remedies for the treatment of anemia are designed to increase hemoglobin levels and improve iron absorption. They can't cure serious illnesses, which are the causes of the painful condition. Therefore, they are used as an addition to increase the effectiveness of the main treatment.

  1. Strawberry infusion. It is made from dry berries, which are poured with a glass of boiling water and infused for several hours. After this, it is consumed once a day.
  2. Garlic tincture is made with alcohol, so it is not suitable for women during pregnancy and lactation, as well as for children. Garlic has high biological activity, strengthens the immune system and improves metabolism. The mixture of garlic and alcohol is infused for 3 weeks, after which 15–20 drops are taken, dissolved in a glass of milk.
  3. Rosehip decoction in any form. You can brew the berries you picked yourself or purchase ready-made tea for brewing at the pharmacy.
  4. Oatmeal decoction. The cereal is boiled at the rate of a glass per liter of water to a mass similar to jelly. After this, it is filtered, diluted with milk and boiled again. Honey is added to it before use. You do not need to take it all at once, but two or three times during the day.

Dangerous consequences of anemia

As a result of a long-term pathological condition, the appearance of negative consequences anemia for health, even if its degree is low:

  • decreased immunity and frequent illnesses;
  • insomnia;
  • exposure to stress, emotional instability;
  • frequent inflammation of the mucous membranes;
  • swelling;
  • disruption of the heart and blood vessels;
  • liver diseases;
  • digestive problems;
  • oxygen starvation brain;
  • dry skin, brittle nails and hair.

These are the consequences of directly reduced hemoglobin. It is also necessary to remember that this state may be caused by serious systemic disorders. Therefore, the lack of treatment will lead to their worsening and in some cases may cause irreversible deterioration in health.

For women, anemia is a common phenomenon, especially often accompanying pregnancy, and gynecological diseases. Anemia has dangerous consequences, especially during pregnancy. At the first signs of pathology, it is necessary to correct the diet and lifestyle. Controlling these two aspects is the best way prevention. It is also necessary to maintain healthy image life with enough physical activity and spend more time in the fresh air.

Complaints of constant fatigue, drowsiness and loss of interest in life are quite common. “Fashionable” diagnoses appear one after another - “ burnout syndrome», chronic fatigue and others like them. However, everything can be much simpler: the above condition can be caused by long-known anemia, the symptoms of which are somewhat more pronounced in women than in men.

Latin word anemia, which gave the name known illness, literally means "without blood". And this is no coincidence: the causes of the painful condition really come from our veins.

In the vast majority of cases, about 90%, the cause of anemia in adults is a lack of iron. In this case, the body cannot receive in the required volume the substances necessary for the formation of hemoglobin in red blood cells, the main task of which is to transport oxygen. As a result, the cells do not receive nutrition in the right quantity, and this affects the functioning of the entire body.

In such conditions, he is simply not able to function 100%.

Iron deficiency in the female body can be caused by a number of reasons:

  • severe blood loss during menstruation;
  • pregnancy and breastfeeding;
  • poor nutrition, especially dangerous are fashionable diets that involve consuming no more than 1000 kcal per day, as well as long-term mono-diets;
  • excessive physical activity;
  • features of the body that do not allow the absorption of iron in full;
  • gastrointestinal diseases;
  • donation on a permanent basis.

What is the difference between female anemia?

Most patients who are diagnosed with this belong to the fair half of humanity. Statistics say that 15% of menstruating women and 30% of pregnant women suffer from it.

The female body is much more complex than the male body. Their well-being is largely related to their monthly cycle. During certain periods, the symptoms of many diseases appear brighter and more painful.

This can also be attributed to anemia.

Ask your question to a clinical laboratory diagnostics doctor

Anna Poniaeva. Graduated from Nizhny Novgorod medical academy(2007-2014) and Residency in Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (2014-2016).

If in the middle of the cycle it does not manifest itself so clearly, then during menstruation, when significant blood loss occurs, it becomes much more noticeable.

The greater susceptibility of women to this disease may also be related to diet. Historically, meat, fatty and high-calorie foods are considered “male” food in our country. Ladies are accustomed to choosing lighter foods, giving preference to vegetables, fruits, and cereals with little energy value. This further provokes the disease.

In general, symptoms of anemia in women and men similar. However, the state of fatigue and drowsiness characteristic of this disease is somewhat more pronounced in women. Doctors note that men often do not notice its symptoms at all, continuing to live as usual even with low hemoglobin.

However, this does not mean that women are much less likely to develop the disease. Often its manifestations are explained by fatigue, lack of sleep, or the same menstrual cycles.

However, it is a mistake to believe that “it will go away on its own” if you just rest and gain strength.

Symptoms

Depending on the characteristics of the body, the first signs of anemia in women may vary significantly. However, there are several symptoms that are common to most carriers of this disease.

Fatigue, lethargy, constant desire to sleep

The energy that makes people move, work, act is result of oxidative reactions that occur in the body. The most important component of this process is oxygen. With anemia, red blood cells are not able to supply the required amount of oxygen.

Accordingly, you should not wait for oxidative reactions.

Pallor

It is not for nothing that people call anemia leukemia. The fact is that hemoglobin is the main coloring substance. Its deficiency affects appearance skin. This is especially noticeable on the eyelids, gums and at the base of the nails.

Human blood consists of a liquid base (plasma) and solid fractions - leukocytes, platelets and erythrocytes. Each group blood cells performs a certain function in our body.

Thus, leukocytes are an integral part of the immune system, platelets are responsible for hemostasis, and red blood cells, with the hemoglobin they contain, are a kind of transport, a carrier of oxygen in the body.

But it happens that the content of red blood cells and... As a result, oxygen starvation of various organs and systems may occur. The name of this pathology is anemia.

Naturally, there can be no talk of any normal functioning of the body under these conditions. Therefore, anemia, which occurs even in a mild asymptomatic form, can be a cause and risk factor for the development of various serious illnesses.

Causes of anemia

Anemia is essentially common name syndrome accompanied by a decrease in hemoglobin levels in the blood.

At the same time the reasons similar disease can be very different.

The clinical picture of the disease, tactics and treatment methods depend on them.

In medicine, all these reasons are combined into 3 groups.

1. Anemia associated with low levels of hemoglobin in the blood

The main cause of anemia is the insufficient supply and absorption of iron by the body, which is responsible for the synthesis of hemoglobin.

If you do not receive this microelement, hemoglobin levels in the blood fall, the number of blood cells decreases and, as a result, anemia occurs.

To maintain hemoglobin levels within normal limits, it is important for the body to regularly receive iron contained in food.

Most of this microelement is found in products of animal origin (red meat, liver, fish, eggs). Plant food also contains iron (especially apples, dried fruits, nuts), but the percentage of its absorption is noticeably lower.

Provoking factors:

  • poor nutrition is the leading cause of anemia;
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding are also a factor in the development of anemia. During the above periods, a woman’s body spends significant resources on the child, “giving” him essential vitamins and microelements, which, coupled with malnutrition, leads to a decrease in hemoglobin levels in the blood.
  • chemical or ;
  • diseases of internal organs;
  • following strict diets;
  • grueling physical activity.

2. Anemia associated with blood loss

The main cause of such anemia is acute or regular blood loss and the associated hemodynamic disturbance, when there are not enough red blood cells to perform their immediate function.

This condition can be provoked by:

  • blood loss associated with bleeding (wound, stomach, nasal, etc.);
  • regular blood loss due to donation;
  • plentiful

3. Anemia resulting from other diseases

Many diseases can cause anemia. This is due either to direct damage to red blood cells, or to the loss of the body’s ability to absorb iron and other trace elements and vitamins.

Main provoking factors:

  • oncological diseases;
  • HIV infection;

Besides, important factor is and hereditary predisposition to anemia.

In some cases, anemia is caused by various genetic diseases. Such forms of anemia are considered incurable.

Symptoms of anemia

Regardless of the reasons for which anemia occurred, the disease is characterized by the fact that at its first stage there are no visible symptoms.

The patient may feel great, but his red blood cell and hemoglobin levels are low.

A diagnosis at this stage can only be made based on laboratory tests blood, for which anemia is characterized by severe erythrocytopenia.

As the disease progresses Clinical signs anemia becomes noticeable to the patient himself and his environment. These include:

  • pale skin, which is often accompanied by dryness;
  • dizziness;
  • sensations and “flies” before the eyes;
  • dyspnea;
  • appetite disorders;
  • fatigue, fatigue;
  • decreased level of attention, concentration, cognitive abilities.

Stages and types of anemia

Anemia is determined by the deviation of the hemoglobin level in the blood below normal. The hemoglobin content in the blood of adult men is 120-140 g/l.

In children and women it may be slightly lower. A level of this substance in the blood of less than 120 g/l indicates the presence of anemia. There are 3 degrees of severity based on hemoglobin levels:

  1. 1st degree characterized light current and the absence of clinically significant symptoms. Blood hemoglobin level is 100-120 g/l. Anemia at this stage can be easily corrected with just one change in diet;
  2. 2nd degree of anemia occurs when hemoglobin levels are in the range of 70-100 g/l. The patient experiences most of the symptoms described above. A change in diet alone is not enough - the patient needs to regularly take iron-containing medications;
  3. 3rd degree of anemia occurs when hemoglobin levels fall below 70 g/l. This life-threatening condition usually occurs when acute blood loss or hemolytic shock and requires immediate medical attention.

Despite the similarities clinical symptoms, causes anemia for completely different reasons. Therefore, there are quite a few types of anemia.

Iron-deficiency anemia

The most common type of illness. The disease is usually associated with a lack of iron in food and blood loss. According to statistics, more than 90% of all cases of anemia are associated with a deficiency of this important microelement.

Sickle cell anemia

This type of anemia is severe genetic pathology, expressed in disruption of hemoglobin synthesis in red blood cells, resulting in damage and death of red blood cells.

Severe form sickle cell anemia in combination with associated factors(thin air, being in a stuffy, unventilated room) can lead to a hemolytic crisis, which is a direct threat to the patient’s life.

Pernicious anemia

This type of anemia is a consequence of another pathology associated with deficiency. This vitamin is involved in the synthesis of hemoglobin in the blood.

Violation of its absorption in the gastrointestinal tract or insufficient intake from food leads to a deficiency of this substance and, as a consequence, anemia.

Treatment of this type of anemia is directly related to the elimination of vitamin B12 deficiency.

A lack of folic acid, which plays as important a role in the body as vitamin B12, can lead to anemia.

Aplastic anemia

This form is associated with production disruption bone marrow blood cells. As a rule, it is caused by a genetic pathology.

Thalassemia

The most severe form of anemia. Due to genetic disorders, the rate of hemoglobin synthesis changes, which leads to significant deterioration in red blood cell function. Unfortunately, thalassemia is an incurable disease, so treatment of the disease is aimed only at alleviating the patient’s condition.

Diagnosis of anemia

Diagnostic measures carried out when anemia is suspected include the following steps:

Determination of the level of hemoglobin and red blood cells in the blood

The presence of anemia is determined by the amount of hemoglobin contained in red blood cells. The norm is considered to be a hemoglobin content in the range of 120-140 g/l. However, this indicator can vary greatly depending on the gender and age of the patient.

In any case, if anemia is suspected, a finger test should be performed to determine the level of red blood cells and hemoglobin.

In addition, the doctor may prescribe additional tests blood, determining the hemoglobin content in the blood cell, the number of reticulocytes. Biochemical analysis blood allows you to find out the level and.

Determining the cause of the disease

To determine the cause of the disease and determine how to treat this type of anemia, various diagnostic methods aimed at studying the state gastrointestinal tract(fibrogastroscopy, fibrocolonoscopy, etc.).

Since symptoms and treatment in adult women may resemble those in gynecological pathologies, it is important to conduct the necessary “female” tests.

In general, there are quite a few causes of anemia, so the choice of one or another diagnostic method is determined by the doctor depending on the collected medical history.

Treatment

Treatment of anemia directly depends on its type and what causes it. Thus, the treatment of anemia, which is associated with heavy blood loss, consists of stopping bleeding and restoring hemodynamics.

At iron deficiency anemia Treatment tactics are aimed at eliminating micronutrient deficiency by correcting nutrition and taking medications.

For some types of anemia, palliative treatment aimed at eliminating the symptoms of the disease is indicated.

Drug therapy

For anemia associated with genetic disorders, taking vitamins and iron-containing medications is indicated. However, in addition to this, regular blood transfusions are necessary.

In thalassemia and during hemolytic crises Glucocorticoids are widely used.

Methods for treating anemia at home

Changing the diet and nature of nutrition is one of the main methods of treating anemia.

Widely used in the treatment of anemia traditional methods, the use of which is possible only in consultation with a doctor.

Nutrition

The patient’s nutrition plays an important role. The diet should be dominated by protein-rich foods, mainly of animal origin (meat, fish, eggs, liver, etc.).

In case of anemia, the frequency of nutrition is also very important. It is best to eat small meals in small portions 5-6 times a day.

Folk remedies

To treat anemia, rose hips are widely used, the fruits of which contain a large number of iron and vitamin C. To prepare the medicine, 5 tablespoons of crushed rose hips are poured into a liter of water and boiled for 10 minutes.

Then the drug should infuse. For anemia, rose hips are drunk almost without restrictions, using it instead of tea.

For anemia, it is good to use honey. 3 tablespoons of honey should be taken before meals, 4 times a day. This will help on initial stage anemia.

Prevention

Prevention of iron deficiency anemia is the consumption of protein, iron-rich foods. It is important to ensure that your diet is as varied and balanced as possible.

In addition, eliminating existing bleeding also plays a significant role in the prevention of anemia.

Forecast

When timely treatment The prognosis for iron deficiency anemia is favorable; it is enough just to eliminate its main causes.

In cases where anemia is caused by bleeding, ( posthemorrhagic anemia) the prognosis is also favorable, but only with timely identification of the problem and adequate treatment.

The prognosis for other forms of anemia is poor, since in most cases it is impossible to defeat the disease caused by genetic disorders, and treatment consists only of providing palliative care to the patient.

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Interesting

Hello dear readers. Modern women living in rhythm big cities, quite often encounter symptoms constant fatigue. The causes of this condition are diets, physical activity, frequent consumption of coffee, smoking, menstruation with heavy blood loss, etc. All of this is often a prerequisite for a serious illness. When experiencing a feeling of constant fatigue, it is important for women to pay attention to Special attention on the hemoglobin content in the blood. Anemia, its causes, consequences and ways to increase hemoglobin is the topic of today's article. IN modern world women often face this situation, therefore, you always need to know what to do, as well as all the signs, causes and symptoms of anemia.

There is already an article on the blog about how I managed to eat food and folk remedies during pregnancy without resorting to medical drugs. And do it quickly and efficiently. So.

What is anemia?

Anemia is a condition characterized by low performance hemoglobin and red blood cells, in medicine - erythrocytes.

Anemia is not an independent disease; anemia is one of many symptoms that signal that the functioning of organs has failed.

Anemia has a number of types, in more than 70% of cases, the diagnosis is iron deficiency anemia. This anemia is caused by a lack of the required amount of iron in a woman’s blood.

About 20% of the population suffers from various types of anemia, and most of those suffering from symptoms of decreased hemoglobin are women.

The most common anemias are associated with a lack of iron in the body; according to statistics, more than 90% of all types of anemia.

There are anemias that appear as a result of large blood loss: anemia that occurs due to deterioration in the reproduction of red blood cells, these are aplastic, characterized by bleeding and infectious lesions of the body.

There are three degrees of anemia

  • Mild severity is diagnosed when the hemoglobin level in the blood is over 90 g/l.
  • TO medium degree refers to the presence of hemoglobin of at least 90-70 g/l.
  • In severe cases, hemoglobin levels drop to 70 g/L or lower.

The most common anemia - caused by iron deficiency - is iron deficiency, for its diagnosis it is important to carry out clinical researches. There is megablastic and sideroblastic anemia, anemia is known with chronic diseases. When red blood cells are destroyed, hemolytic anemia is released.

Anemia in women - main causes

The causes of anemia in women include uncontrolled diets, during which women consume less than 1000 calories per day; the second, no less common reason is blood loss, for example, heavy and prolonged menstruation.

Chronic and uncontrolled bleeding is 80% of the causes of anemia.

Frequent donation is also the basis for a decrease in hemoglobin, transfusions, hemodialysis, formation of internal organs, diseases of the kidneys, liver, uterus, gastrointestinal tract, hemorrhoids, gastritis, ulcers.

If a woman's body is unable to absorb iron in optimal amounts, it will eventually cause iron deficiency anemia. Also to this species Anemia is caused by a number of diseases: enteritis, resection small intestine, intestinal amyloidosis.

The volume of iron in the blood sharply decreases during periods of intense physical activity, accelerated growth in adolescence.

fashionable, in modern society Vegetarianism is also a cause of iron deficiency.

Normal hemoglobin content in the blood for women is the norm

It is possible to determine the amount of hemoglobin in a woman’s blood using the well-known general blood test.

The optimal value is 120 – 140 g/l.

If the hemoglobin level in the blood is more than 140-150 g/l, then this is acceptable for athletes and women who smoke.

TO separate category Pregnant women are included, their hemoglobin content norm is calculated for the 3rd trimester and in each of them the norm is different: in the 1st and 3rd trimester the norm is 110 g/l, in the 2nd trimester the hemoglobin indicator is acceptable - 105 g/l.

Control of the upper value is mandatory, since the hemoglobin level should not increase above 120 g/l.

Such a difference in blood composition indicators can be easily explained by changes occurring in different periods life: before and during pregnancy.

During pregnancy, the volume of blood circulating in the body increases significantly. Iron, in the blood, is necessary for the full growth of the placenta and the growth of the unborn child. Need female body in iron is 15 mg daily, and twice as much during pregnancy.

And if hemoglobin in the blood is elevated, what is the danger?

However, hemoglobin can be not only low, but also high.

There are two reasons for this: physiological and pathological.

In the first case, the cause is physical activity and hypoxia, during which the body requires an increase in oxygen supply, and without receiving it, it intensively produces red blood cells.

And in the second case, the reasons for the increase in hemoglobin levels are initially unclear and must be clarified under the supervision of doctors.

An unexplained rise in hemoglobin levels is often a sign of development dangerous pathologies and diseases: diabetes, heart disease, intestinal obstruction, pulmonary failure.

What to do if you have high iron levels?

Urgent treatment is necessary to prevent blockage of blood vessels.

To reduce hemoglobin levels, it is necessary to reduce the consumption of foods containing large amounts of iron, limit the intake of butter and other fats.

The diet should predominate protein food, be sure to use blood thinning medications.

Symptoms of anemia in women - what to look for

The symptoms of anemia in women are very easy to notice.

  1. At this time, performance decreases.
  2. Feeling unwell.
  3. Weakness throughout the body.
  4. There is a constant desire to sleep.
  5. Unable to concentrate.
  6. Headaches and dizziness.
  7. Frequent fainting.
  8. Unpleasant sensations on the tongue, which leads to changes in taste sensations.
  9. Feeling of presence foreign body difficulty swallowing in the throat.
  10. The appearance of shortness of breath.
  11. Deterioration of hair, nails, problems with mucous membranes.

In this case, the desire to eat salty, spicy, sour foods.

Iron deficiency anemia, without exaggeration, is visible on the face; the main signs are: pallor and flaking of the skin, its sagging, dryness.

During such anemia, hair thins and turns gray, becomes brittle, thin, turns gray and stops shining.

At this moment, the nails also begin to change, they become fragile, begin to flake, become dull and thin, and many white stripes appear. If the anemia is severe, the nail becomes concave.

How to treat low hemoglobin and anemia in women

Treatment must begin after a blood test has been performed, based on the results of the tests obtained, in which the doctor will see the picture: the level of red blood cells, reticulocytes, platelets.

Biochemical analysis will reveal the concentration of hemoglobin, iron, bilirubin and ferritin.

Anemia in women occurs quite often and first of all the woman will need to exclude pathological abnormalities uterus and appendages.

Examine the intestines, stomach, lungs, kidneys, donate general analysis urine, conduct a kidney examination to rule out kidney disease.

It is necessary to begin treatment after the exact cause has been established in order to objectively prescribe medications.

Eliminate the cause by treating the underlying disease or eliminating the source of blood loss.

Anemia must be treated in a complex manner, that is, to successfully bring hemoglobin back to normal it is necessary to: identify and eliminate the cause, start eating right, restore iron levels in the blood, and prevent relapses.

Speaking about products, I want to draw your attention to, that is, the level of iron in the blood.

For women who are susceptible to a decrease in hemoglobin, a balanced diet is recommended, containing a variety of foods, including plant origin, the sick person must take into account that her diet must include bread, buckwheat, and rice.

Fruits must be present, which increase the level of iron in the blood and accordingly normalize hemoglobin levels.

Pay attention to:

  • pomegranate
  • prunes
  • dried apricots

Nutritious foods include spinach, peas, parsley, soybeans and beans.

The following meat products are irreplaceable:

  • beef liver
  • fresh veal

It is necessary to adhere to a certain diet, but this is not a panacea and diet alone cannot stabilize the iron content in the blood.

Even if a woman begins to eat only foods rich in vitamins and microelements, only 2-6 mg of iron per day will enter her body, with the required norm of 15 mg, and twice as much during pregnancy.

Only consumption will lead to improvement of the condition. medications gland. Today there is no shortage of these drugs, so there are no obstacles to successfully getting rid of anemia.

The above drugs have differences in terms of the volume of iron, the presence of additional components in them, and the release form (you can purchase both drops and tablets or capsules; solutions for intravenous and intramuscular administration are also available for sale).

The list of drugs that are prescribed to stabilize iron levels in the blood:

  • Feramid
  • Totema
  • Ferrum lek
  • Maltofer
  • Ferroplex and many others

The World Health Organization considers it necessary to recommend when prescribing drug treatment First of all, offer products that contain divalent iron.

Dose of elemental iron to be taken per day: 2 mg/kg.

Treatment lasts for three months, in severe cases from 4 to 6 months.

If the drug is prescribed correctly and has the following characteristics: the required iron content, a convenient regimen, the presence of components that stimulate the production of red blood cells and increase absorption capacity, and also has an optimal price, the result will not take long to arrive.

Anemia - the main folk remedies

In addition to drug treatment, women often seek help traditional medicine.

Traditional medicine together with balanced nutrition also helps to replenish the insufficient amount of iron in the female body.

Rosehip infusion

The folk method of getting rid of anemia and preventing it with the help of rose hips is a bet on improvements metabolic processes body and absorption of vitamins from group B, blood purification, absorption of iron.

Are treated in in this case decoction: 5 tbsp. l. berries are poured with water, boiled in 500 ml of water and infused overnight or 12 hours.

In this way, you can not only support normal level iron in the body, but also protect the body from scurvy, ARVI, kidney and liver diseases.

Natural juices

Vegetable juices are one of the folk ways getting rid of anemia. It is necessary to mix the juices of beets, radishes, carrots in equal parts, pour into a dark container and simmer in a warm oven for three hours over low heat.

You need to take just a spoonful on an empty stomach, three times a day, treatment lasts no more than three months.

It is necessary to include fresh and natural juices from carrots, apples, and red beets in your diet.

Herbs for anemia

Taking two spoons of blackberry leaves, nettle leaves, clasp inflorescences and three spoons of St. John's wort flowers, pour 800 ml of liquid and leave for three hours. This infusion should be taken 3 times a day, a glass, for three to four weeks.

Eating carrots and apples also helps against anemia.

Apple paste

Recipe taken from: Genrikh Uzhegov “Complete Encyclopedia of Traditional Medicine.” Whether you cook it or not is up to you.

This recipe helps not only normalize iron levels in the blood, but also stabilize general state, increase weight, relieve dizziness and weakness.

For 400 grams of pig fat, take 6 large green apples. The apples are finely chopped, mixed with lard, then sent to the oven to simmer until the fat is completely dissolved.

At this time, beat 12 yolks with 200 grams of sugar and 4 bars of grated dark chocolate. When the lard and apples have cooled, add the egg mixture and mix everything together. Take 4 times a day, during meals, spread on bread and be sure to wash down with milk. Quite a strange recipe, but folk methods are often famous for this.

Any woman can be susceptible to anemia and prevention is necessary to eliminate this symptom.

To do this, you need to quickly eliminate sources of blood loss, eat a healthy and balanced diet, and regularly undergo medical examinations and monitor the condition and composition of the blood, periodically take medications that contain iron.

Proven Negative influence low iron content in the blood, as in individual organs, and on the woman’s body as a whole. - this is serious. Therefore, the first step in case of signs of iron deficiency should be to go to the doctor and order tests.

There are many folk recipes, as well as medications, choose for yourself best option and don't get sick.