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Anemia

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 1, 2023.

Anemia is a low number of red blood cells or a low amount of hemoglobin in your red blood cells. Hemoglobin is a protein that helps carry oxygen throughout your body. Red blood cells use iron to create hemoglobin. Anemia may develop if your body does not have enough iron. It may also develop if your body does not make enough red blood cells or they die faster than your body can make them.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US), or have someone call if:

  • You lose consciousness.
  • You have severe chest pain.

Return to the emergency department if:

  • You have dark or bloody bowel movements.

Call your doctor if:

  • Your symptoms are worse, even after treatment.
  • You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Medicines:

  • Iron or folic acid supplements help increase your red blood cell and hemoglobin levels.
  • Vitamin B12 injections may help boost your red blood cell level and decrease your symptoms. Ask your healthcare provider how to inject B12.
  • Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are in some way related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

View more treatment options

Prevent anemia:

Eat healthy foods rich in iron and vitamin C. Nuts, meat, dark leafy green vegetables, and beans are high in iron and protein. Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron. Foods rich in vitamin C include oranges and other citrus fruits. Ask your healthcare provider for a list of other foods that are high in iron or vitamin C. Ask if you need to be on a special diet.

Sources of Iron
Sources of Vitamin C

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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