Tired All the Time? Signs It’s Time to See a Hematologist For Anemia
Tired All the Time? Signs It’s Time to See a Hematologist
Are you constantly tired despite adequate rest, struggling to catch your breath while walking or climbing stairs, or frequently feeling dizzy or light headed? These symptoms could indicate moderate to severe anemia, a condition where your body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen.
Additional anemia signs can include fainting, pale skin, gums or nail bed, headache, feeling cold, rapid heartbeat or, in severe cases, unexplained chest pain.
Anemia is commonly caused by iron deficiency, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, or blood loss due to GI ulcers, surgery, injury or heavy menstruation. Bone marrow disorders, inherited conditions like sickle cell anemia and reactions to medications or toxins can also lead to the destruction of red blood cells (known as hemolysis).
When to see a specialist
Anemia is typically diagnosed through a complete blood count (CBC) test, which measures red blood cell counts and hemoglobin levels—the protein that is essential for maintaining healthy oxygen levels in tissues and organs. Severely low hemoglobin or red blood cell count can signal anemia.
If symptoms persist, a primary care doctor can initiate evaluation. Referral to a hematologist may be appropriate if the anemia is severe, unexplained, linked to chronic illness (e.g., kidney disease, autoimmune disorders) or not responding to standard treatments, such as iron or vitamin supplements.
Hematologists have specialized expertise and extensive training in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of blood-related diseases and conditions, including anemia. These medical doctors provide valuable insights into a patient’s overall health and develop personalized treatment plans to address proper blood function and speed the anemia recovery.
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