How Is Iron-Deficiency Anemia Treated?
Goals of Treatment
The goals of treating iron-deficiency anemia are to
restore normal levels of red blood cells, hemoglobin, and iron as well as to
treat the condition causing the anemia.
Specific Types of Treatment
Treatment for iron-deficiency anemia is based on the
cause and the severity of the condition. It will include treatment to stop any
bleeding, as well as changes in diet and iron supplements as needed. Severe
anemia may require more emergency measures.
Treatment To Stop Bleeding
Treatment will depend on why the body is bleeding
and where it is bleeding. Anemia will not improve until the bleeding is
stopped.
Treatment To Increase Iron in the Diet
Your doctor may recommend a diet rich in iron, folic
acid, and vitamin C to treat the anemia. Iron in meats is more easily absorbed
by the body than iron in vegetables and other foods. The best source of iron is
red meat, especially beef and liver. Chicken, turkey, pork, fish, and shellfish
also are good sources of iron.
Other foods high in iron are:
- Eggs
- Cereals, breads, or pastas that are fortified
with iron
- Beans and nuts, including peanut butter, almonds,
peas, lentils, and white, red, and baked beans
- Dried fruits (for example, raisins, apricots, and
peaches), prune juice
- Vegetables such as spinach and other dark green,
leafy vegetables
- Iron-fortified infant formula and cereals
Sources of vitamin C in foods include many fruits
and vegetables such as:
- Citrus fruits (for example, oranges, grapefruits,
and lemons) and their juices
- Kiwi fruit, mangos, apricots, strawberries,
cantaloupes, and watermelons
- Broccoli, peppers, tomatoes, cabbage, potatoes,
and leafy greens (for example, romaine lettuce, turnip greens, spinach)
The doctor may prescribe supplements to treat
anemia. Supplements can correct low iron levels within months if taken as
ordered. They include iron supplements in pill form and vitamin C to help the
body absorb the iron. Iron supplements also come in drops for children. But
iron supplements are very dangerous if taken in overdose, so it is important to
keep them away from children.
Iron and vitamin C supplements can cause side
effects, including dark stools and stomach irritation or heart burn. Iron also
can cause constipation, and a stool softener may be needed.
Treatment for Severe and Life-Threatening
Anemia
Severe anemia may need to be treated with
hospitalization, blood transfusions, and iron injections. |