Understanding Macrocytic Hypochromic Anemia

Macrocytic hypochromic anemia is a blood disorder which can cause a wide variety of complications if not treated properly. This health problem is characterized by abnormally large red blood cells. These, in turn, carry abnormally high levels of hemoglobin, which is responsible for the transport of oxygen throughout the body. In addition to the abnormal size of the red blood cells, people who suffer from this form of anemia also have fewer of these cells than a healthier person would. While this disorder is not necessarily life-threatening, it does need to be monitored to avoid the development of additional health problems.

What are the Symptoms of Macrocytic Hypochromic Anemia?

The early symptoms of this disorder are quite mild, and as such may be mistaken for a cold or flu. Shortness of breath after exercise, tiredness, lightheadedness, headaches and fatigue are some of the early symptoms. When these symptoms develop into headaches, loss of appetite, difficulty in concentrating, and sleeping problems it may be necessary to contact a doctor. Unfortunately, most people will brush these off as a symptom of a weakened immune system and will try to treat themselves at home.

In later stages, this type of anemia causes more noticeable health problems. Brittle nails, pale lips, and a sore mouth are all an indication of this blood disorder. A person suffering from this disease will also notice that they have a rapid or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. All of these symptoms can be particularly alarming at first, which is why an expert opinion must be sought.

If there is any suspicion of this disorder, patients should seek medical assistance. Leaving the problem for too long could cause irreparable damage to the liver and other vital organs. If caught in the early stages,the disorder can easily be treated. If, however, the patient leaves the problem unaddressed, more extensive treatment may be needed to repair additional damage to the body.

What is the Treatment for Macrocytic Hypochromic Anemia?

Generally, doctors will need to determine the underlying cause of the disorder before they can prescribe a course of treatment. In most cases, B12 supplementation will be the first course of action. People suffering from this form of anemia will need to adjust their diets to ensure that they have an adequate intake of B12 and folates. More often than not, B12 injections will also become an everyday part of their lives.

Three of the major causes of this condition are pancreatitis, blind-loop syndrome, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Each of these three health problems need to be addressed separately from the anemia. In some cases, treating the underlying cause will eliminate the symptoms of the blood disease. In other cases, the anemia will need to be treated in addition to the treatment program already in place.

Alcoholism and liver disease can also be responsible for the onset of the disease. In these cases, patients will need to completely eliminate any intake of alcohol in order to lessen the symptoms of the blood disorder. Again, B12 supplementation will be the treatment chosen for the disorder.