What Are The Major Types Of Anemia?

Hemolytic Anemia

Hemolytic anemia is a variation of anemia characterized by a low number of red blood cells because they are being destroyed quicker than the body can replace them. Hemolytic anemia can be caused by inherited genetic factors, or it can be acquired at a later time following birth. Inherited hemolytic anemia can happen when an inherited disease or condition causes a patient to produce red blood cells with a shorter lifespan then healthy red blood cells. An individual can acquire hemolytic anemia due to blood cancers, viral or bacterial infections, use of certain medications, presence of mechanical heart valves, an overactive spleen, or a severe reaction from a blood transfusion. Symptoms that may indicate an individual has the hemolytic form of anemia include enlarged liver and spleen, heart murmur, confusion, dark colored urine, fever, and jaundice. The treatment for hemolytic anemia is based on its underlying cause. Some patients may need to take corticosteroid medications, receive blood transfusions, undergo immunosuppressive therapy, or have surgery to remove their spleen.

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