Manipal Hospitals

Anaemia

1 Min Read

Anaemia

Anaemia is a blood disorder characterised by a reduced level of haemoglobin or a decreased number of healthy red blood cells needed to carry oxyg...

Treatments Available at

Anaemia: Symptom, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Anaemia is a blood disorder characterised by a reduced level of haemoglobin or a decreased number of healthy red blood cells needed to carry oxygen to body tissues. It can affect overall health and daily functioning. This may result from blood loss, chronic diseases, nutritional deficiencies, bone marrow disorders, or genetic conditions. Anaemia may be acute or chronic and mild, moderate, or severe. Manipal Hospitals provides comprehensive multidisciplinary care for all forms of anaemia.

Symptoms of Anaemia

Common anaemia symptoms include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, pale skin, palpitations, and headache. Patients with long-standing or severe anaemia may experience dizziness, fainting, chest pain, and worsening of pre-existing heart conditions due to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.

How We Diagnose Anaemia

Anaemia diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and clinical examination. Blood tests such as haemoglobin level, complete blood count, red cell indices, and peripheral smear confirm anaemia and help determine its type. Additional tests may include iron studies, vitamin B12 and folate levels, and renal function tests. Bone marrow examination is done when clinically indicated to determine the cause.

Treatment Options

Anaemia treatment depends on its cause and severity. Management includes iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12 supplementation, treating underlying diseases, or immunosuppressive therapy in specific conditions. Severe cases may require blood transfusion, bone marrow transplantation for selected disorders, or surgery to control ongoing blood loss.

What to Expect

At Manipal Hospitals, anaemia management begins with a comprehensive clinical assessment to determine the type, severity, and underlying cause in both adults and children. Advanced diagnostic tests, including complete blood count, iron studies, and peripheral smear, are performed. Specialised investigations such as haemoglobin electrophoresis, genetic testing, or bone marrow examination may be recommended when indicated.

Treatment is individualised based on the diagnosis. Iron deficiency anaemia is managed with oral or intravenous iron therapy, along with dietary counselling. In moderate to severe cases, especially when oral therapy is ineffective or not tolerated, intravenous iron may be administered. Chronic or inherited anaemia may require blood transfusions, iron chelation therapy, or immunosuppressive treatment. Children with inherited blood disorders receive specialised paediatric haematology care focused on long-term monitoring and complication prevention.

With timely diagnosis, regular follow-up, and compassionate multidisciplinary care, most patients achieve symptom relief, stable haemoglobin levels, and improved overall quality of life.

or

Didn’t find what you were looking for?

Use our new search to get all your questions answered!

A Manipal Hospitals clinician available to help

Not sure what you’re looking for?

Get in touch with Manipal team!