Seniors are at greater risk for anemia. Know the signs and symptoms

One in 10 people over 65 years old is anemic, according to estimates. Anemia is the most common type of blood disorder. It can be a serious medical condition. However, many people mistake it for fatigue or stress. Many patients don’t realize they have anemia until they get a blood test.

Anemia can lead to fatigue and weakness due to a lack of healthy red blood cell to transport oxygen to the tissues. Other symptoms include dizziness, shortness or yellow skin, headaches, cold hands and feet, dizziness, and pale or yellow skin.

Anemia is more common as people get older. “While anemia can sometimes be the result of poor nutrition, it can also be a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition, such as cancer or kidney disease,”Nancy Berliner M.D., President of the American Society of Hematology. “It is very important to consult your doctor if you suspect you are anemic, because even mild anemia may be linked to other diseases requiring treatment. Furthermore, in order to properly treat the anemia, it is important to understand what is causing it.”

Healthier eating habits can help prevent nutrition anemia (anemia caused by a lack of vitamins like folic acid). You should look for iron-rich foods like beef, dark leafy vegetables, dried fruits and nuts. Citrus juice, legumes, and fortified cereals are all good sources of folic acids. Dr. Berliner warns, however, that iron supplements should be avoided by older adults unless prescribed by a physician.

“Iron deficiency anemia is almost always the result of blood loss, and it is important to understand the cause of the blood loss. Taking iron may temporarily fix the anemia, but it will also delay proper diagnosis of the real problem. Although iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia worldwide, it accounts for less than one-third of anemia in elderly patients, and delay in seeking a doctor’s opinion may delay the diagnosis of a more serious condition. The sooner you talk with your doctor, the sooner you can find out what is wrong and how to treat it,”Berliner.

If you are diagnosed as having anemia, your doctor will be able to determine your treatment. He may also refer you, depending on the severity of your condition, to a hematologist who specializes in blood disorders.

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