Living With Hemolytic Anemia

The course of hemolytic anemia depends on the cause and the severity of the anemia. Mild hemolytic anemia may need no treatment at all. If you have an inherited form of hemolytic anemia, it is a lifelong condition that may require ongoing treatment. If the anemia is caused by a medicine or infection, the anemia may go away when the medicine is stopped or the infection is cured.

Ongoing Health Care Needs

If you have hemolytic anemia, taking care of your overall health is important. See your doctor regularly for checkups and follow your treatment plan. Get a flu shot every year, and ask your doctor about the vaccine to prevent pneumoccal pneumonia.

Be sure to get plenty of rest. Stay away from cold temperatures if you have cold-reactive antibody autoimmune hemolytic anemia. During cold weather, wear a hat, scarf, and a warm coat. When taking cold food out of the refrigerator or freezer, wear gloves. Turn down air conditioning or dress warmly while in an air conditioned space, and warm up the car before driving in cold weather.

If you have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, avoid taking sulfa or antimalaria medicines and eating fava beans. You should also take precautions to avoid infections.

Recommended Physical Activity

Discuss with your doctor the safest types and amounts of physical activity for you. You may need to avoid certain sports or activities that could worsen your condition or lead to complications.

Protection From Infection

Your doctor also may discuss ways to reduce your chance of getting an infection. These include staying away from people who are ill and avoiding crowds. Washing your hands thoroughly several times a day and caring for your teeth and gums can reduce the risk of infection.

For Parents of Children With Hemolytic Anemia

Parents of children with hemolytic anemia usually want to learn as much as possible about the illness from the team treating their child. You can be an active partner in caring for your child by speaking with the health care provider team about treatment, diet, and level of physical activity. Learn to watch for signs of worsening anemia or possible complications so you can contact your child's doctor.

It's a good idea for parents to educate their family members, friends, and child's classmates about the illness. You also can inform your child's teachers or other caregivers so they know about any necessary limitations or restrictions. Family members, friends, teachers, and caregivers can provide a network of support to help your child cope with his or her anemia.

Allow teenagers to have input in decisions about their care. This encourages them to take an active role in their health care. Help them understand about lifestyle restrictions and their medical needs so they can better cope with having anemia.

Support Groups

The American Sickle Cell Anemia Association provides research, education, and social services. The Cooley's Anemia Foundation provides information about thalassemia.