Anemia
Anemia
Anemia: A Sign of Uterine Fibroids
Anemia is a prevalent condition characterized by a deficiency of healthy red blood cells, which impairs the body's ability to transport oxygen to tissues. It is often referred to as low hemoglobin or low hematocrit and can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. Due to the various underlying causes, symptoms, and types of anemia, accurate diagnosis is crucial for maintaining overall health. One potential cause of anemia is uterine fibroids. People with uterine fibroids frequently experience excessive blood loss during menstruation, which can lead to a significant drop in hemoglobin levels. Consequently, the body may find it challenging to regenerate red blood cells quickly enough, resulting in anemia and its associated symptoms.
Signs of Anemia
Signs of Anemia
Anemia can manifest a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild inconveniences to significant disruptions in daily life. While mild anemia may not produce noticeable symptoms, the severity of these symptoms generally escalates as the condition worsens. Common symptoms of anemia include:
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Having these symptoms?
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Causes of Anemia
Causes of Anemia
Anemia can either be congenital or acquired later in life. The underlying causes vary by type, and your healthcare provider will determine the specific reasons for your low hemoglobin levels to create a tailored treatment plan. Anemia may result from insufficient red blood cell (RBC) production, excessive RBC loss, or the destruction of RBCs. Common causes of anemia include:
In What Ways do Fibroids Lead to Anemia?
In What Ways do Fibroids Lead to Anemia?
Uterine fibroids are the leading cause of heavy menstrual bleeding. These fibroids act as large reservoirs of blood by stimulating the growth of enlarged blood vessels. During menstruation, especially with fibroids positioned near the surface of the uterine cavity (known as submucosal fibroids), they can release excessive amounts of blood into the cavity, potentially resulting in anemia and its related symptoms.
Additional contributors to heavy bleeding include adenomyosis or adenomyomas, which are benign growths of endometrial tissue within the uterine lining. Many women may experience both fibroids and adenomyosis, but the positive aspect is that Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) can effectively treat both conditions at the same time.
Anemia Treatment
Anemia Treatment
The treatment for anemia focuses on addressing the underlying cause of hemoglobin deficiency in the body. Once normal levels are achieved, symptoms usually improve. The specific treatment plan determined by your doctor will depend on the type of anemia and its root cause. Treatment options can range from dietary supplements to medical procedures like the minimally invasive Uterine Fibroid Embolization.
Lifestyle Adjustments & Medication
For some individuals with anemia, simply making lifestyle changes may not resolve the issue. When anemia is caused by vitamin or iron deficiencies, modifying the diet and taking vitamin supplements to enhance intake of vitamin B12 and folic acid can be beneficial. Your doctor may recommend iron supplements to aid in red blood cell production. Other iron-rich sources include various meats, spinach, tofu, peas, and dried fruits.
UFE Procedure: Minimally Invasive Fibroid Treatment
If uterine fibroids are the cause of anemia, Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) can be a viable option to remove the fibroids and relieve associated symptoms. This minimally invasive, image-guided procedure entails making a small incision in the groin and inserting a thin catheter. Through this catheter, tiny particles are introduced into an artery to cut off blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and ultimately die. UFE is commonly used by fibroid clinics to treat uterine fibroids and reduce abnormal and excessive bleeding.
What to Anticipate from Uterine Fibroid Embolization
What to Anticipate from Uterine Fibroid Embolization
- Uterine Preservation
- Lower Risk of Complications
- No Need for Hospitalization
- Less Invasive than Major Surgery
- Faster Recovery Time
- Reduces Excessive Bleeding
