January 16, 2025

Anemia in Children and Teens


Anemia is a condition that can affect children and teenagers. Most cases of anemia are often asymptomatic and cause little to no symptoms in children and teens. Anemia occurs when the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to tissues.

Causes of Anemia
There are several causes of anemia in children and teens, including:

      1. Iron Deficiency:
      • The most common cause of anemia, iron deficiency occurs when the body does not have enough iron to produce hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
      • This can result from a diet low in iron-rich foods, rapid growth spurts during adolescence or blood loss such as heavy menstrual periods in teen girls.
      2. Vitamin Deficiencies:
      • A lack of folate, vitamin B12 or vitamin C can interfere with red blood cell production.
      • These deficiencies often stem from poor dietary intake or absorption issues.
      3. Chronic Diseases:
      • Conditions like kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease or cancer can lead to anemia by affecting red blood cell production.
      4. Inherited Disorders:
      • Sickle cell anemia and thalassemia are genetic conditions that affect the shape or production of red blood cells, leading to anemia.
      5. Blood Loss:
      • Acute blood loss from injury, surgery or chronic blood loss from gastrointestinal conditions can contribute to anemia.

Symptoms of Anemia
The symptoms of anemia can vary depending on its severity and underlying cause. Most children are asymptomatic, but sometimes children can exhibit the following:

  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Pale or yellowish skin
  • Shortness of breath or rapid heartbeat
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Irritability or difficulty concentrating

Diagnosing Anemia
To diagnose anemia, a healthcare provider will typically:

      1. Review the child’s medical history and perform a physical examination.
      2. Order a complete blood count (CBC) test to measure red blood cell levels, hemoglobin and other indicators.
      3. A provider may recommend additional testing to identify the underlying cause, such as checking iron, vitamin levels, or screening for genetic disorders.

Treatment Options for Anemia
Treatment for anemia depends on its cause:

      1. Dietary Changes and Supplements:
      • Increasing the intake of iron-rich foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, leafy greens, beans and fortified cereals.
      • Taking iron supplements as recommended by a healthcare provider.
      • Ensuring adequate intake of vitamin C to enhance iron absorption and consuming foods rich in folate and vitamin B12.
      2. Managing Chronic Conditions:
      • Treating underlying chronic illnesses that contribute to anemia, such as controlling inflammation or improving kidney function.
      3. Medications:
      • Inherited anemias like sickle cell anemia may require medications to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.
      4. Blood Transfusions:
      • In severe cases, especially with significant blood loss or inherited conditions, blood transfusions may be necessary to restore red blood cell levels.
      5. Specialized Treatments:
      • Children with genetic anemias may benefit from advanced therapies including bone marrow transplants or gene therapy.

Preventing Anemia
Parents can take proactive steps to reduce the risk of anemia in their children and teens by:

  • Providing a balanced diet that includes iron-rich foods and essential vitamins.
  • Encouraging routine health checkups to identify potential issues early.
  • Ensuring children receive adequate iron during rapid growth phases.
  • For adolescent girls, monitor and address heavy menstrual bleeding with your Goldsboro Pediatrics doctor.

When to See a Doctor
If you notice symptoms of anemia in your child or teen, schedule an appointment at Goldsboro Pediatrics promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and help your child maintain optimal health.

At Goldsboro Pediatrics, we’re dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of children and teens. If you have concerns about anemia or your child’s nutrition, schedule an appointment with our team. Together, we can ensure your child’s growth and development stay on track.

Sources:
Cedars Sinai
Children’s Health
UpToDate




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