“How serious is being anemic?”

Being anemic is a very serious disease. Usually the patient feels tired, fatigue, sometimes unable to do their daily living activity. The complete blood count (CBC) is the most common test used to confirm anemia. It is part of the routine tests done. The complete CBC test the hemoglobin and hematocrit. The hemoglobin is the iron-rich protein part in the red blood cell that carries the oxygen. The hematocrit is a measure how much space the red blood cells take up in your blood. Low level of hemoglobin or hematocrit signify anemia. Everything has to do with the type of anemia and how it was acquired. For example, iron deficiency anemia due to blood loss or due to lack of nutrients, can be corrected by stopping the blood loss and eating food that are reach in iron. Diet: beans, dried fruits, eggs, lean red meat, salmon, iron-fortified bread and cereal, peas, tofu, dark green leafy vegetables (Spanish cucumber, broccoli) among others. No, anemia due to hereditary condition, the etiology (cause) of that condition needs to be assessed to find the right treatment. Severe anemia could be very serious. Loosing blood quickly can be fatal. The three main causes are red blood cell loss, lack of red blood production in the bone marrow or red cell destruction by the immune system. A hematologist would be a great choice. They will send the test to the lab. For analysis. But a complete work up is appropriate to find the etiology of the anemia. Thank you.

Anemia is when your body does not make enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to major organs or if there is active red blood cell loss caused by bleeding. Anemia can be mild to severe depending on the cause. Most 16-year-olds are menstruating which can contribute to a mild anemia. A lack of nutrients like iron can also contribute to mild anemia. Iron helps build red blood cells.

More severe cases of anemia are caused by destruction of bone marrow which in turn affects the production of red blood cells. This is usually caused by certain cancers that destroy bone marrow which is where most red blood cells are made.

Anemia is not uncommon in children. Once diagnosed, the severity of the anemia and the cause should be investigated. While mild forms of anemia (like mild iron deficiency anemia) may be managed with nutrition, vitamins, and regular follow-up, more severe forms will need evaluation by an expert. The pediatrician should provide information about the suspected cause, treatment, and follow-up. If you have questions, contact the pediatrician or their nurse for additional information.

I assume she is menstruating and that can cause anemia. Low grade anemia is not a problem. Moderate and severe anemia are and both usually cause fatigue. I would discuss this with her doctor.