What causes anemia?
Sep 13, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
In general, anemia may be caused by malnutrition, long-term smoking and alcohol consumption, medication effects, excessive blood loss, or hookworm infection. It is important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, eat a balanced diet, and avoid picky eating or extreme dieting. When taking medications, follow medical advice and pay attention to potential adverse effects. It is recommended to seek timely medical care, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician.
Anemia is generally caused by factors such as malnutrition, long-term smoking and alcohol consumption, medication effects, excessive blood loss, or hookworm infection. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Malnutrition
Long-term unbalanced diet lacking essential nutrients for blood production—such as iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12—may lead to anemia. A diverse diet should be maintained, with increased intake of foods rich in blood-forming components, such as red meat, leafy green vegetables, and legumes.
2. Long-term smoking and alcohol consumption
Prolonged smoking and drinking may impair nutrient absorption and damage red blood cells, resulting in anemia. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake can improve quality of life and promote overall health.
3. Medication effects
Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and antithyroid agents, may impair hematopoietic function or cause red blood cell destruction, thereby triggering anemia. Medications should be taken strictly as prescribed, and precautions listed in drug instructions should be carefully observed.
4. Excessive blood loss
Excessive menstrual bleeding that has not been properly managed, or occult gastrointestinal bleeding, may lead to significant blood loss and result in anemia, commonly accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness. Under medical supervision, medications such as Wuji Baifeng Pills, Gynecological Hemostatic Capsules, or Xiaoyao Pills may be used for treatment.
5. Hookworm infection
Hookworm disease is caused by parasitic hookworms residing in the human small intestine. It may lead to immune hemolysis and suppress bone marrow hematopoiesis, thus causing anemia, often accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain and dermatitis. Treatment may include anthelmintic drugs such as albendazole tablets, pyrantel pamoate tablets, or mebendazole tablets, used according to medical advice.
It is important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, eat a balanced diet, and avoid picky eating or extreme dieting. When taking medications, always follow medical instructions and remain aware of potential adverse effects.
