What is Anemia?
Anemia is either a reduction in the number of red blood cells being produced, or of hemoglobin in the blood. This results in reduced levels of oxygen being transported round the body, which is vital for every cell to produce energy for normal bodily functions.
The Anemia Profile measures the blood levels of three important nutrients, which are often involved in anemia. These include folic acid, vitamin B12 and iron levels (measured in the form of ferritin).
Anemia can stem from a deficiency in iron, which results from poor absorption or low dietary intake, increased iron requirement, and excessive blood loss (possibly due to injury or surgery).
Vitamin B12 is also needed to prevent anemia, which works with folic acid in regulating the formation of red blood cells, and helps to utilize iron.
Causes of Anemia:
Some of it’s causes are:
- Hormonal disorders
- Folic Acid deficiency
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Iron deficiency
- Chronic inflammation
- Surgery
- Diverticular disease
- Repeated pregnancies
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Thyroid disorders
- Vegetarianism
- Genetic conditions such as Sickle Cell
- Hemorrhoidâs
- Peptic ulcers
Signs and symptoms of Anemia:
- Pale skin
- Brittle nails
- Headaches
- Loss of appetite or nausea
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Coldness of extremities
- Constipation
- Sore mouth/ tongue
- Hair loss/ poor growth
- Depression
- Breathlessness
- Heavy periods
- Hair loss/ poor growth
- Dizziness
What is being measured?
- Ferritin (relates to Iron stores)
- Folic acid and Vitamin B12
- Full Blood count
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- B12 & Folate Profile â measures serum B12 & folic acid only (Specimen requirements: 1 x serum sample).
- Ferritin â measures ferritin only (Specimen requirements: 1 x serum sample)
Before taking the test;
- Avoid Vitamin B12 and folic acid (folate) and iron containing supplements for 48 hours prior to the test.
Gogodoc also provides an educational series of information on various blood tests (*intended for educational purposes only. If you are experiencing symptoms, please reach out to book an online GP consultation with a Gogodoc GP.) Talk to a doctor online at a time that suits you from home with a phone or video appointment. You can easily book an appointment with GP.
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