Steven A. Sandler, M.D.
Board-Certified in
Hematology & Oncology

Telephone Numbers
Office: (847) 933-0875
Fax: (847) 933-0878
Answering Service: (773) 594-7340

Skokie Office
9669 Kenton, Suite 510
Skokie, IL 60076
Map and directions

Chicago Office
7447 W. Talcott Ave., Suite 318
Chicago, IL 60631
Map and directions

Call us at 847-933-0875 or send Dr. Sandler a message via the form below. Please note that this form is for non-emergencies only.

Anemia and Anemia Treatment

About Anemia

Anemia is a decrease in the normal number of red blood cells or less than the normal amount of hemoglobin in the blood, which makes it difficult for oxygen to be transported via the blood throughout the body. Anemia is the most common blood disorder. There are several kinds of anemia, which are produced by a variety of underlying causes. Anemia can be classified in a variety of ways. The three main classes of anemia include excessive blood loss (acutely such as a hemorrhage or chronically through low-volume loss), excessive blood cell destruction (hemolysis) or deficient red blood cell production (ineffective hematopoiesis).

Signs and symptoms of anemia may include:

• Fatigue
• Unusually rapid heartbeat, especially when exercising
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Pale skin
• Leg cramps
• Insomnia

Anemia Treatment

The treatment of anemia depends on the cause. If the cause is from blood loss, it is important to determine the source of the blood loss. This usually involves an examination of the upper intestinal tract and the colon. Sometimes a camera is used to photograph the small intestine as well. Many patients are also low in iron and need their iron stores replaced. Another common cause of anemia is due to nutritional factors such as Vitamin B-12 or folic acid deficiencies. The cause of the anemia is easily determined by a blood test and can be easily treated. Some less common causes of anemia include destruction of the blood cells. Again, there is usually a treatment for this. It is important for an accurate diagnosis be made so the corresponding treatment can be given.

The last cause of anemia is due to poor blood cell production in the bone marrow. These are an uncommon group of disorders but are being recognized more often, especially in older individuals. This usually requires a bone marrow examination. There are newer treatments that are available to treat these disorders effectively.