Anemia of Chronic Disease

What is anemia?

Anemia is a condition in which there is a decrease in the ability of the blood to carry oxygen to the tissues in the body. This can be due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells or a decrease in amount of hemoglobin in each cell. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.

What is anemia of chronic disease?

This type of anemia is a complication of another disease. Chronic (long-lasting) conditions such as the following are most likely to result in anemia of chronic disease:

• arthritis
• chronic kidney failure
• chronic liver disease
• chronic infections
• tumors
• pressure ulcers (bedsores).

In all these conditions, the bone marrow produces fewer red blood cells than normal. This type of anemia, unlike some of the more common types, is not caused by bleeding or lack of iron in the body.

What are the symptoms?

Mild anemia usually does not produce symptoms.

With more severe anemia, you may have symptoms such as:

• weakness
• fatigue
• pale skin, gums, skin creases, and nailbeds.

Other symptoms of worsening anemia include:

• chest pain
• dizziness
• fainting
• heart failure
• less endurance
• lightheadedness
• rapid heartbeat
• shortness of breath
• trouble sleeping.

These symptoms occur in addition to the symptoms of whatever underlying chronic disease is causing the anemia.

How is it diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will examine you and ask about your symptoms and medical history. Blood tests will be done to determine if you have anemia and to rule out other causes for the anemia.

What is the treatment?

Treatment consists of treating the underlying chronic condition. Anemia of chronic disease is cured only if the underlying disease is managed. If the anemia is severe, blood transfusions are sometimes required.

How long do the effects last?

This can be a lifelong condition if the chronic disease that causes it lasts for life. But anemia can be improved with treatment of the underlying disease and good nutrition.

How can I help myself?

If you have any of the medical conditions that lead to this type of anemia, follow the treatment plan recommended by your healthcare provider.