There are many types of blood disorders that a person can acquire either by malnutrition, or genetics. The severity of blood disorders varies greatly, and may cause long-term affects depending on each individual. Blood disorders that are acquired from malnutrition can be simply treated by a change in diet. However, genetic blood disorders may be treated, but they will never disappear, and an individual has to learn how to adapt to their condition.
Amy, a 4-year-old Caucasian female, has been complaining of being tired all the time. She is a picky eater, who only eats pasta, breads, and hot dogs, and drinks only artificial punch. Her mother has a very low income, which contributes to Amy’s disorder.
Amy suffers from iron-deficiency anemia. Symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia may include fatigue, paleness, increased heart rate, soreness of the tongue, and the craving of unusual matters, such as dirt, and ice. Iron-deficiency anemia varies depending on each individual, so it is important for the physician to do a thorough examination. Anemia is a deficiency in which a person does not produce enough red blood cells. Red blood cells are important because they transfer oxygen to other organs in the body. Iron-deficiency may occur when there is not enough iron in a person’s diet, loss of bleeding from surgery or other complications, menstrual cycles, and growth spurts.
Iron-deficiency anemia can be diagnosed by a person’s medical history, illnesses that include the above symptoms mentioned, blood tests, and a thorough examination. Treatment is determined by the physician, and may include a diet high in iron, and the substitution of iron supplements to increase the amount of iron in one’s body.
Marcus is a 5-year-old African-American male who just moved. His mother is taking him to get a physical examination before he starts kindergarten, and she wants the physician to screen Marcus for sickle cell anemia because she carries the trait. Since...