Recognize the Symptoms of Anemia in Adolescents

Entering the teenage years, the many activities and hobbies that are carried out make teenagers more active in carrying out daily activities. That way, it is important for teenagers to maintain a healthy body so as to avoid various kinds of health problems that can interfere with daily activities. One of the diseases to watch out for is anemia.

What is anemia?

Anemia is a condition in which the body lacks healthy or functional red blood cells (hemoglobin). As a result, the body's organs do not get enough oxygen, thus making people with anemia pale and easily tired.

Causes of Anemia

Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein that gives blood its red color. Hemoglobin functions to deliver oxygen in the blood from the lungs throughout the body and transports carbon dioxide from all parts of the body to the lungs so that it can be removed from the body.

Well, when the body does not have enough red blood cells, anemia occurs. The normal level of red blood cells, or hemoglobin, is 12 g/dL. This could be due to the following reasons:

-There is a problem with the immune system.

-have a history of chronic health problems

-Genetic factors, if parents have a history of anemia and other related blood disorders

-have health problems with the spinal cord

-is currently pregnant.

-Inadequate intake of vitamins and minerals

Symptoms of anemia

Remember the 5L for the symptoms of anemia, namely, weak, tired, lethargic, tired, and inattentive. In addition, other symptoms experienced include:

-Headaches and dizziness

-Often sleepy

-Dizziness when standing

-Palor of the skin and lower eyelids

-Cold hands and feet

Diagnosis of anemia

To find out the diagnosis of anemia, the doctor will conduct an examination through a medical interview and a complete blood test to find out the common types of anemia, which consist of:

-levels of iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, and other vitamins and minerals.

-Number of red blood cells and hemoglobin levels

-Reticulocyte count

Anemia Treatment

Anemia is a condition that can be cured by administering drugs according to the cause, such as:

-Erythropoietin, a drug that helps the bone marrow produce red blood cells.

-Consuming folic acid, iron, and vitamin B12 supplements

-Perform blood transfusion if necessary.

Anemia Prevention

The main prevention of anemia can be done by consuming foods that contain iron, zinc, vitamins A, C, and B12, and folic acid. Meanwhile, some other ways of prevention are:

-Consume blood-boosting tablets as directed.

-Exercise regularly

-Drink 8 glasses of water per day.

-Reduce caffeine (tea and coffee).

If your teenager or you have complaints that lead to anemia, immediately consult an internal medicine specialist. To make it easier when you want to make an appointment with a doctor, make an online consultation appointment via the Hermina website, mobile apps, or call center at 1500488.