Anemia is the kind of disorder that exemplifies just how important it is to have routine bloodwork. Any Lab Test Now® is here to partner with you as you take charge of your health. Whether you’re having labs done as a screening or as a diagnostic tool, we provide affordability, confidentiality, and convenience to help you get answers to health concerns.

What is Anemia?

When it comes to anemia — The American Society of Hematology says you may not even know you’re anemic until it’s identified in a blood test. There are some three million people in the United States who have been diagnosed with anemia — a condition in which the body is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood. That lack of oxygen makes the body work harder to operate, which means you wind up feeling fatigued and weak. Those are just a few of the symptoms. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute says you may also have shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, pounding in your ears, cold hands or feet, pale or yellow skin, or an irregular heartbeat.

Some folks are more prone to anemia than others. For instance, if you have a poor diet, gastrointestinal problems, chronic diseases, or infections, you are more susceptible to anemia.

Types of Anemia

There are several types of anemia. The one most of us are familiar with is iron-deficiency anemia. Typically, this is caused by blood loss or poor iron absorption. To treat it, your provider would have to find the source of the blood loss.

Next is vitamin-deficiency (pernicious) anemia resulting from low levels of vitamin B12 or folic acid caused by poor diet. It’s caused by the body’s inability to absorb vitamin B12. To treat this type of anemia, your provider may suggest modifying your diet or adding supplements.

Aplastic anemia is rare but occurs when the body’s bone marrow stops making blood cells because of dysfunction of bone marrow creation. Treatment begins with a visit to see a hematologist who may conduct a bone marrow biopsy to determine the cause of the anemia. Medications and blood transfusions may be used to treat aplastic anemia.

Hemolytic anemia is when red blood cells are broken up in the bloodstream or in the spleen; because there is a mechanical heart problem or a number of other disorders. Treatment is dependent on the cause but may include medication or the guidance of a heart or vascular specialist.

The Mayo Clinic describes sickle cell anemia as an inherited disorder called sickle cell disease that affects the shape of red blood cells, which prevents oxygen from being carried properly through the blood.

Anemia Testing at Any Lab Test Now®

At Any Lab Test Now®, we offer our ANEMIA PANEL, a comprehensive screening test that includes a CBC, Ferritin, Folates, Total Iron Binding Capacity tests, Reticulocyte Count, vitamin B12, and folic acid tests.

A CBC (Complete Blood Count) looks at important parameters of your blood, including hemoglobin level, white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. The Ferritin, Iron, and Total Iron Binding Capacity tests work together to indicate if you have an iron deficiency, which is the most common form of anemia. The Reticulocyte Count can help determine if you are producing enough red blood cells and the cause of different types of anemia. Finally, this panel will indicate any vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiency, often the reason for the onset of anemia.

Being screened for anemia, whether you are symptomatic or not, is a good idea. Although some anemia can’t be prevented, there are some changes you can make, like eating more iron-rich and vitamin-rich foods to improve the condition. Your provider may also encourage you to take a multivitamin or iron supplements if appropriate.

Manage Your Health

What we do at Any Lab Test Now® is empower you to take control of your health by providing tests like the Anemia Panel. The test results belong to you. However, we strongly encourage you to have a conversation with your provider about the results. If you do not have a primary care physician, Any Lab Test Now® has partnered with DialCare. This service helps you find a provider licensed in your state to discuss results and any further testing or changes you may need to make to achieve your health goals.

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Resource for Improved Health

Any Lab Test Now® provides thousands of tests available to you as our commitment to being your partner in health. We are here to help you and your family achieve your health and wellness goals. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.