Anemia and Kidney Disease

Anemia is a common medical condition that occurs when the body lacks healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to all parts of the body, and without them, the body's tissues and organs can become oxygen-deprived. In this article, we will discuss the different types of anemia, their symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

Types of Anemia

Anemia can be caused by several factors, including a deficiency of vitamin B12, iron, or folic acid, as well as chronic diseases such as kidney disease. Some types of anemia include:

• Iron-deficiency anemia: This type of anemia occurs when the body does not have enough iron to produce hemoglobin, the protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Iron-deficiency anemia is one of the most common forms of anemia.
• Vitamin-deficiency anemia: This type of anemia is caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12 or folic acid, which are essential for the production of healthy red blood cells.
• Anemia of chronic disease: This type of anemia is associated with chronic conditions such as kidney disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders.

Symptoms of Anemia

The symptoms of anemia can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild anemia may not cause any symptoms, while severe anemia can lead to life-threatening complications. Some common symptoms of anemia include:

• Pale skin
• Fatigue
• Low energy levels
• Poor appetite
• Trouble sleeping
• Difficulty thinking clearly
• Dizziness or headaches
• Rapid heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Depression or low mood

Diagnosing Anemia

If you are experiencing any symptoms of anemia, it is important to speak with your doctor or a nephrologist. A blood test can be used to diagnose anemia and determine its underlying cause. Common blood tests used to diagnose anemia include:

• Blood levels of iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, and other vitamins and minerals
• Complete blood count
• Reticulocyte count

Anemia and Kidney Disease

The kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin (EPO), which signals the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. In people with kidney disease, the kidneys may not produce enough EPO, leading to a drop in red blood cell count and the development of anemia. It is estimated that more than 1 in 7 people with kidney disease have anemia, and the condition can worsen as kidney function declines. Anemia is especially common in people with diabetes, African Americans, women, and those with moderate or severe loss of kidney function.

Nutrition and Anemia

Eating a healthy diet that is rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid can help manage anemia. The amount of these nutrients you need depends on your age and sex. Heme iron, which is found in animal products like meat, chicken, and fish, is well absorbed by the body. Non-heme iron, found in plant-based sources like grains and legumes, is not as well absorbed, but can be increased with the addition of vitamin C-rich foods like strawberries, bell peppers, and kale. Other sources of vitamin B12 and folic acid include fish, meat, dairy, and leafy greens.

Other Strategies for Managing Anemia

In addition to changes in your diet, there are other strategies that can help increase your iron intake. Cooking with cast-iron pans or using products like The Lucky Iron fish can help increase iron in your food. Avoid drinking tea or coffee with meals, as they can decrease the absorption of iron. It is important to speak with your doctor or a nephrologist about any lifestyle changes or supplements that may be appropriate for managing anemia.

Treatment for Anemia

The treatment for anemia depends on the underlying cause of the condition. Iron-deficiency anemia can often be treated with iron supplements or changes to the diet to increase iron intake. Vitamin-deficiency anemia can be treated with supplements of vitamin B12 or folic acid. For anemia of chronic disease, treating the underlying condition is usually the best approach.

In some cases, erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESAs) may be used to stimulate the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. However, these medications are associated with certain risks and should only be used under the close supervision of a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Anemia is a common medical condition that can have a significant impact on your health and quality of life. The symptoms of anemia can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but may include fatigue, shortness of breath, and a rapid heartbeat. Treatment for anemia depends on the underlying cause, and may include changes to the diet, iron supplements, or medications to stimulate the production of red blood cells. If you are experiencing symptoms of anemia, it is important to speak with your doctor or a nephrologist to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Credit

This blog was based on a post written by Emily Campbell and published here with her permission. The original post can be found here.

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About Emily Campbell

Emily Campbell is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator with a Master of Science in Food and Nutrition who lives in Toronto, ON. Over the years, she has experience working with individuals with a variety of kidney conditions to help them improve their eating; and preserve their kidney function through her career in hospitals as well as her private practice Kidney Nutrition. Not only does she have experience as a renal dietitian with patients, but she also has family members living with kidney disease so she understand the stress and complexities mealtime and celebrations can present. She has been practicing as a renal dietitian for over six years and am also is a two-time cookbook author of The Complete Renal Diet Cookbook and Renal Diet Cookbook for Caregivers.

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Patient Education Disclaimer

This material is for informational purposes only. It does not replace the advice or counsel of a doctor or health care professional. KidneyLuv makes every effort to provide information that is accurate and timely, but makes no guarantee in this regard. You should consult with, and rely only on the advice of, your physician or health care professional.

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