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Understanding anemia, a blood disorder

Understanding anemia, a blood disorder

Many different forms of blood disorders can affect the human body. These disorders can affect the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Certain disorders can also affect plasma. The development of the diseases and their treatments depend on what kind of disorder one has. One of the most common illnesses is anemia, which affects red blood cells.

Types of anemia

Anemia causes a decrease in the number of red blood cells, which leads to pale skin, fatigue, and breathing difficulties. There are many different kinds of anemia.

  • Iron-deficiency anemia

This kind of anemia is caused due to a deficiency of iron in the body, which is necessary for the production of red blood cells. This can be caused by low iron intake and loss of blood.

  • Chronic disease influenced anemia

Chronic diseases like a kidney disorder can result in anemia, too. Some people require treatment to improve blood cell production.

  • Pernicious anemia

People with autoimmune disorders or weak stomach linings may suffer from this type of anemia. One cannot absorb enough B12 from their diet, which results in this deficiency.

  • Aplastic anemia

This is one of the blood disorders that results when the bone marrow fails to produce enough red cells and other blood cells.

  • Autoimmune hemolytic anemia

An immune system disorder can destroy the red blood cells in the body, which causes anemia.

  • Thalassemia

This is a genetic form of anemia that may not even result in any symptoms for most people while others may require regular blood transfusions.

  • Polycythemia vera

This is a condition that results in the uncontrollable production of blood cells. It can cause blood clots in some cases.

Diagnosis of anemia

If suffering from any blood disorders, like anemia, and one notices its symptoms, the doctor will inquire about one’s family and medical history. After a physical examination, certain tests will be conducted as well.

  • Complete blood count (CBC)

A blood sample is collected from the body to measure the blood cell count. The red blood cell counts found from the report will indicate if one has anemia.

  • Red blood cell test

A red blood cell test is also done to examine its color, size, and shape.

If the tests show that one has anemia, then the doctor will perform additional tests to determine the cause of the condition. Generally, the bone marrow is analyzed for this.

Preventing blood disorders

Not all kinds of anemia can be prevented. However, according to the National Women’s Health Information Center, one can take certain preventive measures to avoid this condition. Adding iron-rich food items in one’s daily diet surely is an effective way to keep anemia at bay. Some foods that are rich in iron are tofu, green vegetables, lentils, and beans. Additionally, include food and drinks that are high in vitamin C and include folic acid and vitamin B12, too.

There are available treatments for blood disorders that can cure the disease or manage it. Hence, it is important to go for regular health checkups to make sure that it is diagnosed on time.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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Weight management for obesity – Stages, diagnosis, and prevention

Obesity is one of the most common medical problems in the country, and almost one-third of the adult population of the country requires weight management. Technically, if an adult who is over the age of 35 years has a BMI of 30 or more, they will be considered obese. Let’s take a look at the stages of obesity weight management and how to diagnose and prevent it.Stages of obesityThere are broadly six stages of obesity weight management.DenialThis is the first step of any behavioral issue, but the fact is that there is a mathematical calculation for the ideal weight and one for obesity as well. Thus, it is not a subjective matter, and one can clearly understand that there is a reason for action if the weight goes above the ideal weight.DecisionEven after realizing that the weight is off the scale, it takes time for people to register the next steps. Whether one wants to maneuver eating habits or increase exercise every day, people take time to implement plans.ActionThe weight management phase starts here. This is an inclusive action and it is not limited to only eating healthy or working out. One must eat well, exercise regularly, cut down on bad habits, maintain a healthy sleeping schedule, and various other things to keep oneself from obesity.Reaching the goalGetting to the goal might seem difficult at first, but the weight management journey gets easier as you see the results. Soon enough, it becomes a habit and not just an activity that you’re keeping track of.MaintenanceIt’s not enough to just reach the goal; staying there is equally important. You cannot begin to deviate from the diet plans once the goal is reached.AcceptanceThe last phase is an acceptance that this is a long journey, and not a goal-to-goal activity. One must keep eating healthy and exercising throughout your life to stay healthy.Diagnosis of obesity for weight managementObesity is fairly easy to diagnose. Any person having a BMI of more than 30 is considered obese. Body Mass Index is a number that establishes a relation between a person’s height, weight, and age. Apart from this, there are several other factors that determine obesity, and on which basis the condition can be diagnosed. These include skinfold thickness and waist-to-hip comparisons. Further, there are tests including ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and MRI scans that can further help a doctor determine obesity in a patient.Prevention of obesity with weight managementBeyond the cosmetic repercussions of obesity, there are many chronic issues that one might face if one is obese. Several diseases and conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and some serious heart problems can arise due to obesity. Further, obesity also becomes a risk factor for multiple types of cancers. To avoid the risk of obesity, every individual must always maintain a healthy diet and regular fitness activity so that there are no health issues in the long run.There are three main factors affecting the risk of obesity including genetics, environment and community, and psychological and other such factors. While genetics has a direct correlation and there’s no absolute way of preventing obesity due to genetics, the activity level of an individual can be increased for weight management. Further, one must find solutions to depression and other emotional problems before it translates into obesity. Apart from these, a sure-fire way for weight management and obesity prevention is eating less unhealthy food.

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