Anemia of chronic disease (ACD) is a type of anemia that occurs in children who have ongoing health conditions, such as infections, inflammatory diseases, or chronic illnesses. Unlike other types of anemia, ACD is not caused by a lack of iron but rather by the body’s response to a long-term illness. The illness can affect the body’s ability to use iron properly, leading to lower levels of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. While ACD can make a child feel tired and weak, managing the underlying condition can often help improve anemia.
Symptoms
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or lacking energy, even after rest.
- Pale Skin: Skin that appears paler than usual, especially on the face, gums, and inside the eyelids.
- Shortness of Breath: Trouble catching their breath during physical activity.
- Weakness: Feeling weak or easily fatigued during normal activities.
- Irritability: Becoming easily frustrated or upset.
- Cold Hands and Feet: Feeling cold in the extremities, even when the environment is warm.
Causes
- Chronic Infections: Long-lasting infections that cause ongoing inflammation.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus that cause chronic inflammation.
- Chronic Kidney Disease: The kidneys produce a hormone that helps make red blood cells, and kidney disease can reduce this production.
- Cancer: Certain types of cancer and cancer treatments can interfere with red blood cell production.
Diagnosis
- Medical History: Discussing the child’s overall health, symptoms, and any ongoing health conditions.
- Blood Tests: Simple blood tests to check hemoglobin levels, iron levels, and other indicators of anemia.
- Underlying Condition Assessment: Identifying and evaluating the chronic condition causing the anemia through additional tests or evaluations.
Treatment Options
- Medical History: Discussing the child’s overall health, symptoms, and any ongoing health conditions.
- Blood Tests: Simple blood tests to check hemoglobin levels, iron levels, and other indicators of anemia.
- Underlying Condition Assessment: Identifying and evaluating the chronic condition causing the anemia through additional tests or evaluations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is anemia of chronic disease the same as iron deficiency anemia?
A: No, anemia of chronic disease is different from iron deficiency anemia. In ACD, the body has enough iron, but it can’t use it properly due to a long-term illness. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when there’s not enough iron in the body.
Q: Can anemia of chronic disease be cured?
A: While ACD itself may not be curable, treating the underlying condition can often help manage and improve the anemia.
Q: How can I help my child with anemia of chronic disease?
A: Follow your doctor’s advice, manage the underlying condition, and ensure your child gets a balanced diet with all the necessary nutrients. Regular check-ups are also important to monitor their condition.
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