After an oncological operation, a decrease in hemoglobin 70. Oncology: the problem has a solution. The effect of chemotherapy on the blood

One of the important indicators of clinical tests in people with oncology, which doctors pay close attention to, is the dynamics of hemoglobin levels in the blood. Cancer patients regularly donate blood for research in order to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and to adjust indicators. What kind of hemoglobin happens in cancer, and what causes it to fall? What methods and procedures, in addition to drug treatment, can contribute to its increase? How to raise hemoglobin after chemotherapy? Such questions are often asked to doctors by patients and people interested in the speedy recovery of relatives or friends.

How do indicators change with the development of oncological diseases?

The main function of hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells, is the delivery of oxygen from the lungs to other organs and tissues of the body, transportation for the removal of carbon dioxide. A decrease in hemoglobin level is diagnosed in more than half of patients with the development of a cancerous tumor. This condition is called anemia, in simple speech - anemia.

Hemoglobin values ​​in a healthy person are within 140 units in men, 120 in women. A fluctuation of several units above or below the norm does not affect the state of health.

In people susceptible to cancer, its content begins to drop significantly and remains stably low, especially with the development of cancer in the last stages. This condition is accompanied by weakness, chest pain, shortness of breath, the patient develops dizziness, pale skin, increased heart rate. When the indicator falls, there is a decrease in immunity, a depressed state or increased nervousness.

When cancer develops, the amount of iron decreases, which makes it more difficult to cope with the disease.

Why does hemoglobin in the blood fall in oncology?

There are several factors that cause low hemoglobin levels in the development of oncology. It is important to establish the reason for the drop in this indicator in each case. This is necessary to improve the patient's condition, to prevent further deterioration of his health.

The reason for the decrease in hemoglobin in cancer is associated with bleeding, often of a chronic nature. Oncology is accompanied by such a process in many cases, its occurrence is provoked due to the progression of the disease, often occurs as a side effect of treatment. Other, common reasons contributing to the decrease in the indicator have been identified:

  • disorders of the stomach and intestines, which are the cause of poor absorption of iron;
  • bone marrow metastasis makes it impossible to synthesize hemoglobin, which in a healthy person is formed in this organ;
  • the impossibility of a full meal, providing the need for iron, due to frequent urge to vomit;
  • the use of treatment methods (chemotherapy, radiation therapy), the side effect of which is a decrease in hematopoiesis, changes in the bone marrow;
  • persistent intoxication of the patient's body due to the fact that the cancerous tumor grows, develops, then disintegrates in the last stages of the disease.

Why does hemoglobin fall in cancer patients? The answer to this question depends on several factors. If hemoglobin continues to decrease, its indicator remains so for a long time, it is necessary to determine the cause.

Treatment is prescribed by the doctor individually in each case, it takes into account the stage of the disease, the shape and location of the tumor, and other factors.


Useful products for oncology that help maintain hemoglobin levels

Why is it necessary to increase hemoglobin?

A decrease in hemoglobin can worsen the state of health, cause a decrease in life expectancy. The reasons for the decrease in hemoglobin in oncology can be of a different nature, which must be determined for further therapy, and other important indicators of the patient's condition must be taken into account.

A person with oncology, depending on the type of disease and its stage, experiences severe physical pain, weakness, and is in an unfavorable psycho-emotional state. If at the same time the patient has a decrease in hemoglobin, the general indicators of his health worsen. Increased fatigue, loss of strength are steadily observed and the incentive to fight the disease disappears, vitality decreases. The cancerous tumor begins to progress and grow. This is due to the low level of oxygen, for which hemoglobin is “responsible”.


Diagnosing low hemoglobin with a blood test

Ways to increase hemoglobin in oncology

There are two ways to raise hemoglobin for a cancer patient - the drug method and the use of a special diet that includes the use of a set of foods high in iron. How to increase hemoglobin in oncology, which method to choose, the doctor decides. Treatment is prescribed after studying the disease - the localization of the cancerous tumor, the degree of development, the presence of other diseases that can negatively affect hemoglobin levels.

To increase hemoglobin, medical manipulations are used:

  • introduction of hemoglobin into the blood by the method of transfusion of erythrocyte mass;
  • the use of injections or oral preparations containing iron;
  • stimulation of the bone marrow to increased production of red blood cells, hemoglobin by administering erythropoietin.

At the first stage of the development of oncological disease, it is possible to increase the hemoglobin level due to the nutrition recommended for this category of patients. The later stages of cancer require a combination of an iron-rich menu and medications. Food will not help with some types of cancer. For example: the level of hemoglobin in cancer of the esophagus, stomach or intestines is difficult, and sometimes impossible, to change with a special diet due to physiological changes in the patient's body that prevent the normal process of digestion and processing of food.

Hemoglobin level and chemotherapy

For the treatment of oncological diseases, aggressive methods of treatment are often used - chemotherapy, radiation therapy. At the beginning of their use, patients develop mild anemia, which then proceeds in a more complex, sometimes chronic form. For many patients who have undergone such procedures and are waiting for them to begin, the question arises: in what case and in what way can hemoglobin be increased after chemotherapy for cancer patients?

Tracking medical statistics allows us to conclude that patients whose hemoglobin levels were normal before chemotherapy received a more effective result from its implementation than those suffering from anemia.

Therefore, elevated hemoglobin during the development of oncology is a good prerequisite for the recovery of the patient, with a high level of it, the chances of recovery increase.

Only a doctor can advise a way to raise hemoglobin in the blood after chemotherapy. Preparations containing iron, other procedures during this period are dangerous because of the side effects that they have on the patient's body, cause cancer in some cases, they should be taken with caution.


Chemotherapy inhibits all vital processes of the body, which is reflected in the level of hemoglobin

It is necessary to do chemotherapy for cancer patients in most cases. Indicators of reduced hemoglobin are the basis for the use of treatment methods:

  • the introduction of iron-containing drugs intravenously;
  • with the help of blood transfusion - the method helps to quickly raise the level of hemoglobin;
  • a method of restoring the oxygen transport function of the blood by transfusion of erythrocyte mass.

Hemoglobin decreases during chemotherapy in conjunction with other blood changes. In order to avoid dangerous complications, it is required to normalize its composition, bring the indicators in line with the norm. It is possible to achieve such goals with the help of iron-containing medicines, which take a long time to take. Using a diet based on buckwheat, fish, liver, beef, red vegetables and fruits will improve blood counts.

High hemoglobin after chemotherapy in a cancer patient indicates the restoration of hematopoietic functions in the bone marrow, its increase during treatment indicates favorable prognosis for recovery.

How to improve the performance in the blood test for an oncology patient before surgery?

Surgical intervention in the treatment of oncology is carried out in most cases. This method requires a lot of preparation and close attention, therapeutic treatment after the implementation. The patient loses a significant amount of blood, the deficiency is restored with the help of plasma transfusion, which "dilutes" the blood, it contains less than the norm of red blood cells, hemoglobin. How to raise hemoglobin in oncology before surgery and prevent its decline after the intervention, what to take for this?

Often, cancer patients require a surgical method of treatment urgently; it is not possible to postpone the procedure. A blood transfusion procedure will help to quickly increase hemoglobin.

Long-term use is necessary in the treatment of iron preparations. A positive effect on the patient's body before and after surgery has the appointment of folic acid, vitamin B12 injections, vitamin complexes, they should be taken in accordance with the recommendations of the attending physician. Prescribed drugs may have side effects, regular monitoring of treatment results is required. Stop taking medicines immediately if dangerous effects appear.

Eating foods high in iron is a necessary condition, which is required before the operation, during the recovery period after the operation. Such food raises hemoglobin, increases the vitality of the operated person.


Top Iron Fortified Foods

Therapeutic procedures at home

After the medical procedures necessary for the fight against oncology in a hospital, the patient must continue the treatment on his own with the constant supervision of specialists. How to raise hemoglobin at home? Traditional medicine, proper nutrition, lifestyle changes can be ways to increase hemoglobin levels.

Effective remedies were made by our ancestors. The recipes use ingredients that raise hemoglobin, conditionally normalizing blood composition: oats, barley, walnut kernels, rose hips, flax seeds. Cranberry and lingonberry fruit drinks are popular "among the people" - they are a good prophylactic for anemia.

As part of the food, buckwheat, liver, dairy products, meat and fish, natural honey are needed. Vegetable juices from carrots, beets, apple, pomegranate juice - with their help, the process of hematopoiesis increases. The consumption of fatty foods, coffee is associated with a drop in indicators - it is unambiguous to refuse these products.

Increasing levels of iron will be observed with an active lifestyle. Hiking in the fresh air, especially in a park or forest with coniferous trees, will saturate the blood with oxygen and improve well-being. Be careful with physical activity, even if it requires little effort.

With increased hemoglobin, the treatment of oncological diseases will be more successful, efforts should be made to improve its performance by any means permitted by the doctor.

How to increase hemoglobin in oncology? This is a popular question, because very often in oncology there is a decrease in this indicator. Patients diagnosed with cancer are routinely ordered to have a blood test to monitor their hemoglobin levels. Currently, there are many ways to restore this indicator during oncology. In most cases, anemia manifests itself in the most advanced stages of cancer.

Decreased hemoglobin in cancer

In some cases, hemoglobin rapidly decreases due to severe internal bleeding. This condition is very common in colon cancer. In this situation, an anemic state can be detected already at the very beginning of the development of oncology.

If there is not enough iron in the blood, then after the analysis this will be determined. This element must be raised. Reduced hemoglobin delivers oxygen to the organs in insufficient quantities. Gradually they all begin to suffer.

Anemia can occur due to metastases that have managed to spread to the bone marrow. And he, in turn, is responsible for new blood cells.

The reasons for the fall of hemoglobin in oncology are conditionally divided into three large groups:

  1. Slow formation of red blood cells.
  2. Rapid breakdown of red blood cells.
  3. Bleeding.

Anemia in oncology has quite complex characteristics. Any circumstance can be the reason. Basically it's iron deficiency. People with cancer cannot eat normally because they often feel sick. There is an aversion to food. So it becomes impossible to replenish iron stores from food.

The production of new blood cells is affected by radiation and chemotherapy used in cancer. This includes many drugs that adversely affect the process of hematopoiesis.

A drop in hemoglobin levels is caused by cytotoxic agents that accumulate in the patient's body over time. Anemia begins to progress.

Numerous experiments have shown that hemoglobin falls during the entire course of chemotherapy. After all, the percentage drop is almost 50%. Anemia develops and can reach even the third degree of complexity.

Experts knowingly find out the reason for the decrease in hemoglobin in oncology. This fact allows you to choose the right treatment.

Anemia in cancer is divided into three types:

The first type is the most uncomplicated. There is not enough iron in the patient's body. All this happens because some organs are damaged, all the useful substances received tend to the affected area in order to maintain vital activity.

The second type is caused by a deficiency of folic acid, as well as vitamin B12.

The third type of anemia is formed due to significant blood loss, pathologies in the bone marrow, kidneys and other abnormalities that occur in the body.

Normalization of hemoglobin level

Hemoglobin is reduced in most patients who have cancer. So the question of how to increase this indicator in a tumor is the most acute.

The resulting anemia in a cancer patient greatly affects the quality of life:

  • constant fatigue;
  • shorter life span of the patient;
  • decrease in the effectiveness of tumor treatment.

Basically, anemia is formed after radiation or chemotherapy. But there are other reasons, such as lack of iron, the presence of serious pathologies in the body, or extensive internal bleeding.

To restore the level of hemoglobin in oncology, you will need medical help. This includes intravenous injections of special drugs and iron itself.

In order to increase hemoglobin in oncology, you need to know the main cause of this condition. All additional factors must be taken into account.

Increased hemoglobin in cancer

How to raise hemoglobin in oncology? In order to correctly arrive at the desired method of treatment, it is necessary to correctly determine the cause of anemia.

There are several reasons for the formation of anemia:

  • Extensive blood loss. With cancer, endophytic growth of the neoplasm occurs. As a result, neighboring healthy tissues are damaged. In advanced cases, the tumor can damage blood vessels, which is why internal hemorrhage occurs. Erythrocytes die, as well as hemoglobin. As soon as the blood is stopped, the stage of anemia is determined. If the deviation is insignificant, it will be enough for the patient to prescribe a certain diet. When the level falls below 70 units, the patient is hospitalized. In such a situation, sometimes even drugs do not help. The doctor prescribes a blood transfusion. Fighting anemia in cancer is very difficult, because hemorrhages are repeated.
  • Lack of nutrients. Absolutely with any oncology in the patient's body, active cell division occurs. This growth needs nourishment. The body has to use the reserves of previously accumulated substances. This condition is observed not only in malignant neoplasms, but also in benign ones. Basically, a special diet is enough here to replenish the lost elements. A growing tumor is removed or an attempt is made to slow down its growth. After a few weeks, hemoglobin levels should return to normal.
  • Bone marrow cancer. With this pathology, the cells do not have time to divide normally, therefore, disturbances occur in the area of ​​erythrocytes and hemoglobin. Such anemia cannot be overcome by diet alone; serious therapy is prescribed to restore hemoglobin.
  • Kidney cancer. This pathology always affects the level of hemoglobin, since the kidneys synthesize this protein. Patients whose diagnosis sounds exactly like this suffer from anemia that develops in stages. Here, in the treatment, special drugs are used that can replenish hemoglobin reserves. What will be the dose is determined by the attending physician.
  • Suppression of the formation of blood cells. Most patients diagnosed with cancer must undergo an aggressive course of therapy to influence tumor growth and prolong their lives. Radiotherapy or chemotherapy is usually used. Both methods have a negative effect on the formation of new blood cells. So only the neoplasm cannot be blamed, blood cells suppress side effects. But almost all cancers are treated in this way. Experts have long developed a special diet that replenishes the lost substances in the patient's body. If changes in the bone marrow are irreversible, then the doctor prescribes a transplant. But this is done in very rare cases.

Anemia in malignant tumors is quite common. This is manifested in such signs as a feeling of weakness, pale skin, rapid onset of fatigue, shortness of breath and rapid pulse. These factors have a depressing effect on a person, suppressing the incentive to fight the disease. Cancer cells do not tolerate a good supply of oxygen, which means that low hemoglobin in oncology promotes their growth by reducing the transport of oxygen to healthy tissues.

Erythrocytes in humans are produced by the bone marrow, and the kidney hormone erythropoietin informs the body about their deficiency and stimulates the production of new cells. Anemia can occur with oncological diseases or their treatment for the following reasons:

  1. Certain chemotherapy drugs damage the bone marrow, which, once damaged, is unable to produce enough red blood cells.
  2. Certain types of cancer have a direct effect on the bone marrow (lymphoma and leukemia), and also metastasize to the bone (in breast or lung cancer), displacing the healthy bone marrow.
  3. Chemotherapy drugs based on platinum compounds injure the kidneys by disrupting the synthesis of erythropoietin.
  4. Low appetite and vomiting cause a lack of nutrients for the formation of red blood cells, which include iron, folate and vit. AT 12.
  5. Internal bleeding from cancer or surgery leads to anemia if red blood cells are lost more quickly than they are produced.
  6. Anemia is sometimes caused by the response of a person's immune system to the development of a cancerous tumor, and is considered anemia of chronic disease.

Anemia occurs when the hemoglobin level is low, when a drop in the amount of this protein in the blood impairs the transport of oxygen to cells and tissues, which leads to a general decrease in tone. A strong degree of anemia depresses the body so much that it excludes the possibility of regular chemotherapy sessions. This condition is not independent, but is a symptom of another pathology.

Anemia in bowel cancer, anemia in breast cancer, anemia in prostate cancer or any other form of cancer by their nature result from standard causes, the main of which is a lack of elements for hematopoiesis, or oppression of the hematopoietic organs. The doctor must take into account the peculiarities of the location and development of the tumor, as well as the degree of anemia, after which he decides on the appointment of certain therapeutic measures.

The normal indicator of hemoglobin in men is 140, and in women 120 and above units. Cancer anemia occurs in 60% of patients, reducing the desire to beat the disease, reducing the chance of recovery, and shortening life. To eliminate this harmful factor, a special treatment for anemia in cancer patients has been developed, consisting of therapeutic procedures and nutritional correction.

Low hemoglobin in cancer patients is effectively corrected by traditional methods, which include:

  1. Erythropoietin injections (natural or synthetic), which stimulate hematopoiesis and increase the total number of red blood cells (drugs Recormon, Erythropoietin, Epostim and others).
  2. Red blood cell transfusion, which is obtained from the blood of donors by centrifugation. As a result, a high dose of hemoglobin is found in the blood.
  3. Injections of iron-containing preparations that compensate for the lack of a microelement and supplement the administration of erythropoietin.

In the treatment of anemia against the background of oncology, the transfusion of erythrocyte mass, which is prepared only in a hospital, has become widespread. With anemia, the procedure is more effective than using whole blood for this, since the required number of red blood cells is in a small volume without cell destruction products, citrates and antigens. With severe anemia, the procedure has no absolute indications.

But there is a list of pathologies and conditions when the infusion of red blood cells is relatively contraindicated. The indication for transfusion in oncology, as well as its rate, is determined by the attending physician after analyzing clinical data and laboratory tests. At the same time, there is no standard approach to this procedure, since each type of cancer has its own characteristics.

Anemia in cancer patients cannot be successfully eliminated without the use of a healthy diet, which plays an important supporting role, acting as a general tonic for the entire body. The following components must be present in the diet:

  • Water. It is consumed in an amount of about 2 l / day, being a natural solvent during biochemical processes. Its lack will make other efforts ineffective.
  • Foods high in iron. These are peas, lentils, pistachio nuts, liver, spinach. From cereals - oatmeal, buckwheat, barley, wheat, as well as corn, peanuts and other commonly available crops.
  • Foods high in vit. C, B12 and folate. These are the fruits of wild rose, sweet red pepper, currant, sea buckthorn, greens.

Anemia is better corrected if very low hemoglobin in cancer is treated not only by traditional, but also by folk methods. The following folk remedies bring excellent results:

  • Dandelion officinalis. The decoction stimulates the appetite and has a positive effect on the digestion process. Prepared from two teaspoons of dried root, infused for 6 hours in a glass of cold water. Take half a glass 4 times a day.
  • Black radish. It has a positive effect on the entire body. To do this, the grated product is added to salads for a month, and to enhance the effectiveness, they additionally take up to 30 pcs. mustard seeds.
  • Wormwood. A three-liter bottle is filled with dry raw materials, filled with 40% alcohol and infused for 3 weeks without access to light. It is taken 1 drop diluted in a thimble of water for 3 weeks, followed by a break of 2 weeks.
  • Swamp calamus. The root, which can cause appetite, is finely chopped, and 0.5 liters are poured into the amount of a tablespoon. boiling water, then boil for 10 minutes. The decoction is taken in a glass 2 times a day.
  • Rose hip. Activates metabolic processes in the body, rich in vitamin C. A decoction is prepared from 2 tsp. fruits and a glass of boiling water. Drink 3 times a day after meals.

There are also herbal preparations that improve metabolic processes, which are prepared by brewing equal portions of dry raw materials, consisting of nettle leaves, birch, fireweed, buckwheat flowers. Brew 3 tbsp. l. mixtures per 0.5 l. water. Drink half a glass in 20 minutes. before eating. The course of admission fees is 8 weeks.

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Executive Director
Non-commercial partnership "Equal right to life",
YES. Borisov

Oncology: the problem has a solution

Modern Russian statistics are frightening: every year in the country Oncology is detected in more than 500 thousand people. Of these, about 300 thousand die. Every third of those who are diagnosed with the disease for the first time today will die within 12 months. This is largely due to the lack of information: people do not know anything about where, how and why it is necessary and possible to undergo an examination in order to detect the disease at an early stage, and even after hearing their diagnosis, many patients cannot receive the treatment they need in full. volume.

There are also problems in medical institutions. Alas, modern technology for the treatment of cancer today is not available in all cities. The staff is poorly trained: surgeons, chemotherapists and radiologists need up-to-date qualification knowledge.

The non-profit partnership "Equal Right to Life" is trying to solve these problems. Since 2006, we have been trying to implement as efficiently as possible main goal of our program: to ensure the equality of the rights of Russian patients and Russian oncologists to information about modern achievements in world oncology.

During the implementation of the program, educational events are held for oncologists. Internships for specialists are carried out on the basis of the leading medical centers of the country. There is also a program for the implementation of field certification cycles and master classes with the involvement of leading specialists from our country.

Along with this, the material and technical base of regional oncological medical institutions is being modernized: modern equipment is being purchased, and repairs are being carried out at the expense of extrabudgetary funds free of charge.

Cancer is highly treatable in its early stages. In order for everyone to be able to consult with an experienced specialist and learn information about modern methods of fighting cancer (is cancer transmitted, what are its symptoms, methods of diagnosis and treatment), a special hotline "Equal Right to Life" was created in 2006.

The number of thematic events for the inhabitants of the country is growing every year, because cancer is a problem that everyone should know about.

Anemia is one of the most common problems in the world. This is due to the fact that a decrease in the level of hemoglobin occurs in a variety of diseases and may have different mechanisms of occurrence. From a medical point of view, anemia is not even a full-fledged independent disease. This is a pathological condition that most often only accompanies the course of other diseases. However, regardless of the cause, all patients with anemia develop similar symptoms. This made it possible to single it out as a separate term.

The problem of increasing hemoglobin in patients with anemia can be solved in different ways. First of all, it depends on the underlying disease. The fact is that not all anemias are treated equally. Making an accurate diagnosis is essential to the successful fight against low hemoglobin. Another important criterion is the general condition of the patient. A slight decrease in hemoglobin may not manifest itself for a long time, and sometimes there is even no need to urgently raise it to a normal level. At the same time, patients with severe anemia should be immediately hospitalized, and their treatment will be more radical.

Signs of low hemoglobin

The decrease in hemoglobin in the blood can be absolute and relative. The fact is that the decisive role is played not by the amount of this protein, but by its concentration in a certain volume of blood. Thus, in diseases that disrupt the formation of hemoglobin, they speak of true anemia. With it, the amount of blood in the body remains the same, but the concentration of this particular substance decreases. In the case of a relative decrease in hemoglobin, its formation is not disturbed. However, for various reasons, plasma volume increases ( liquid part of blood). This condition is also called hydremia. A situation arises when the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood falls, despite the fact that its production remains normal. In both cases, the symptoms of anemia will be similar. True, with true anemia, the signs of the disease are usually more pronounced than with relative anemia.

You can suspect a decrease in hemoglobin if the following symptoms appear:

  • dizziness;
  • skin pallor;
  • muscle weakness;
  • cold intolerance;
  • cheilitis;
  • violations of the heart.

Dizziness

Dizziness is one of the most common signs of low hemoglobin. It is due to insufficient supply of oxygen to the brain tissues. At the same time, the lungs and heart work normally, but the blood is not able to dissolve the necessary amount of oxygen in itself and deliver it to the brain. The severity of dizziness can vary. Since this feeling is subjective, the doctor has no way to assess how severe this symptom is.

With a slight decrease in hemoglobin, patients may complain of periodic dizziness. It occurs only under the influence of certain external factors - physical activity, overheating, stress. The lower the patient's hemoglobin level, the more severe the symptom. In severe cases, there may be impaired coordination of movements, prolonged headaches, and even periodic loss of consciousness.

Pale skin

This symptom occurs due to the peculiarities of the color of the blood. The fact is that hemoglobin, saturated with oxygen, gives red blood cells a bright red color. During the passage of arterial blood through the vessels inside the skin, it seems to shine through the skin. As a result, a healthy color familiar to everyone appears. In patients with anemia, the amount of hemoglobin in the blood is lowered. Because of this, the blood is not saturated with oxygen in sufficient quantities and does not have such a bright color. When passing through the vessels of the skin, this becomes noticeable. In people with anemia, the skin looks paler, and a healthy blush on the cheeks is out of the question. It appears due to vasodilation. In this case, expansion will occur, but the blood in the capillaries will not give the skin its characteristic red color. In addition, in an anemic patient, blood flow is redistributed. In conditions of lack of oxygen, the body dilates the vessels of vital organs, and in the capillaries of the skin, the blood flow, on the contrary, slows down.

In addition to the skin, mucous membranes can also turn pale. It is believed that the most sensitive in this regard is the mucous membrane of the eyes, the conjunctiva. She starts to turn pink as opposed to normal red) when hemoglobin falls to 100 g/l and below. More severe anemias lead to blanching of the oral mucosa, nail bed, and skin folds.

Chronic fatigue

This symptom is one of the most characteristic for patients with anemia. Its insufficient concentration, as mentioned above, creates problems with the supply of oxygen to various organs and tissues. Without the supply of oxygen, not a single cell of a living organism can normally perform its functions. Fatigue occurs due to the fact that oxygen is poorly supplied to the nerves and muscles. The patient constantly feels overwhelmed, he is passive and cannot cope with prolonged stress. In this case, we are talking not only about physical work. The concentration of attention, cognitive ( cognitive) function, memory worsens. Schoolchildren or students with a low level of hemoglobin begin to lag behind in their studies. They complain of constant fatigue, although they may not perform physical activity at all.

muscle weakness

This symptom occurs directly due to poor oxygen supply to the skeletal muscles. This is the name of the muscle groups that are controlled by a person consciously. Their weakness is manifested in the fact that a person tolerates physical activity worse. Athletes' results drop sharply, manual laborers get tired quickly ( during the first hours of the working day). The rest of the people begin to get tired even from walking at a normal pace.

cold intolerance

Normally, heat in the body is produced due to the destruction of special chemical bonds in cells. To carry out such reactions, maintain a constant body temperature and accumulate high-energy chemical bonds, oxygen must be supplied. Patients with anemia do not receive it. Because of this, they do not adapt well to the cold, they quickly freeze. To compensate for energy costs, the body burns glycogen and fat stores. Therefore, people with chronically low hemoglobin may gradually lose weight and experience problems with weight gain.

The first complaint at a doctor's appointment may be a rapid freezing of the fingertips ( legs and arms), nose, ears. In these areas, blood circulation is the slowest, which is why they freeze faster even in a healthy person. In patients with anemia, oxygen is supplied there very little. If they stay in the cold for a long time, they have an increased risk of frostbite of varying severity.

Sleep disorders

Sleep disturbances, like dizziness, occur due to insufficient oxygen supply to the brain. This symptom is observed less often and is more typical for patients with severe anemia. The patient most often complains that, despite weakness, fatigue and apathy, he cannot fall asleep for a long time in the evening, and his sleep is generally shallow, disturbing.

cheilite

Cheilitis is a specific lesion of the lips. Most often, it is manifested by dryness and the appearance of slowly healing cracks in the corners of the lips. In a more severe case, dryness, pallor and peeling are observed throughout their length. Cheilitis in general can have many causes. One of them is anemia often associated with a lack of B vitamins). Cheilitis in this case should be regarded rather not as a symptom, but as a complication or an independent parallel ongoing disease.

Dyspnea

Shortness of breath appears with a serious decrease in the level of hemoglobin in the blood. This symptom is manifested by a violation of the rhythm of breathing. It becomes superficial. The patient experiences a lack of oxygen and cannot take a deep breath normally. As a rule, shortness of breath appears in the form of attacks after physical exertion. With low hemoglobin, this symptom occurs as a compensatory mechanism. The respiratory center in the brain receives the information that the oxygen content in the blood is low. This leads to increased breathing and dyspnoea) even with normal lung and heart function. Patients who experience shortness of breath due to low hemoglobin are considered very severe. They are subject to urgent hospitalization for a quick recovery of hemoglobin levels.

Heart disorders

Heart disorders, like shortness of breath, indicate severe anemia and a serious decrease in the level of hemoglobin in the blood. Along with the lungs, the heart also modifies its work to compensate for low oxygen levels in the blood. This is manifested in increased heart rate, stronger heart contractions that the patient himself can feel. The problem is that the heart muscle itself ( myocardium), intensively pumping blood, begins to consume more oxygen. Because of this, there are interruptions in the rhythm, a feeling of discomfort or even pain behind the sternum. During the examination, the cardiac impulse is usually increased, and the borders of the heart are expanded.

In general, all of the above symptoms are combined into the concept of "anemic hypoxia". It means precisely the insufficient supply of various tissues with oxygen against the background of low hemoglobin. The severity of the manifestations of this condition directly depends on the severity of anemia. Lower hemoglobin causes more severe symptoms.

However, in many patients with mild anemia, there may be no symptoms of the disease at all. Patients with anemia sometimes live for years without knowing they have any health problems. Reduced hemoglobin is detected by chance during a preventive blood donation or an analysis for another disease. This is because the body has many mechanisms to compensate for anemia. While they work normally, the disease may be asymptomatic. The body's potential to compensate for anemia varies from person to person. Because of this, some people feel almost no discomfort at hemoglobin levels even below 80 g / l ( the norm is 120 - 140 g / l for women and 130 - 160 g / l for men). At the same time, the state of others is seriously affected by the decrease in this indicator already to 100-110 g/l.

In addition to the above symptoms, some patients may have other complaints. Most often, these are manifestations of the underlying disease, which caused anemia. These symptoms are not a direct consequence of low hemoglobin, but are often observed in patients with this problem. Such symptoms can be different, depending on the underlying disease itself. For example, with B12 deficiency anemia, local loss of skin sensitivity is sometimes observed, with hemolytic anemia, the skin may acquire a yellowish tint, and with iron deficiency, patients sometimes suffer from bedwetting. Such symptoms are more valuable in terms of diagnosis. The fact is that the symptoms common to all anemias have low specificity. The same dizziness, weakness or pallor of the skin are very often found in other diseases that have nothing to do with the work of the hematopoietic system and the level of hemoglobin.

Possible Causes of Low Hemoglobin

A decrease in hemoglobin, as mentioned above, can have many different causes. When the first symptoms of anemia appear, you should consult a doctor to determine its cause. Without this, it is impossible to develop an adequate tactic for treating the patient. The fact is that each cause violates certain mechanisms in the human body.

In general, a decrease in the level of hemoglobin in the blood can occur as follows:

  • Blood dilution. In this case, we are talking about a relative drop in the level of hemoglobins, which was already mentioned above. Direct production ( synthesis) hemoglobin in the red bone marrow is not affected by the disease.
  • Direct blood loss. One of the most common causes of anemia is bleeding. They can be sharp massive) and chronic ( prolonged loss of blood in small amounts). Red blood cells containing hemoglobin are also lost in the blood. Its concentration in the blood decreases.
  • Impaired heme formation. Heme is part of the hemoglobin molecule, which consists of porphyrins and ferrous ion. It is this part that is responsible for the accession and transport of oxygen in the body. Heme ceases to be synthesized with insufficient intake of iron.
  • Violation of the synthesis of porphyrins. In this case, heme formation is disrupted due to the absence of porphyrins. The level of iron intake may be normal.
  • Disruption of globin synthesis. In addition to heme, the hemoglobin molecule contains a protein part, which is represented by polypeptide chains. Violations of its synthesis are usually associated with genetic pathologies or with a pronounced lack of proteins in the body.
  • Violation of DNA synthesis. For the synthesis of DNA molecules in the production of red blood cells, a prerequisite is the presence of a number of substances. The most important of these are vitamin B12 and folic acid. Their insufficient intake or insufficient absorption from food also leads to the development of anemia.
  • RBC destruction. Under certain conditions or under the influence of certain substances, red blood cells can be destroyed directly in the vascular bed. This process is called hemolysis. With it, the number of red blood cells in the blood falls, and hemoglobin is released into the blood. Since it can only perform its blood-carrying functions inside red blood cells, the patient develops symptoms and signs of anemia.
  • Dysregulation of hematopoiesis ( hematopoiesis) . There are a number of substances in the body that stimulate blood formation. With a lack of these substances, the synthesis of hemoglobin and red blood cells slows down, which leads to the development of anemia. An example of such a substance is erythropoietin. This hormone is produced in the kidneys and directly stimulates the formation and maturation of red blood cells in the red bone marrow. In people with various kidney diseases, erythropoietin may not be produced, which will cause problems with the level of red blood cells and hemoglobin.
All of these mechanisms can occur in a wide variety of diseases. If you do not determine what exactly the problem is, it will be impossible to select the appropriate treatment, and all measures to raise hemoglobin will be only temporary.

A low hemoglobin level can occur with the following diseases and pathological conditions:

  • deficiency of certain substances in the diet;
  • chronic infectious diseases;
  • bone marrow tumors;
  • acute poisoning;
  • diseases of the gastrointestinal tract ( gastrointestinal tract);

Deficiency of certain substances in the body

Nutritional problems are perhaps the most common cause of low hemoglobin. As noted above, for the normal synthesis of this protein and erythrocytes in the bone marrow, a sufficient amount of "primary material" is necessary. If for some reason it is not enough, then hemoglobin is not synthesized in sufficient quantities.

As a rule, if the cause of anemia lies in malnutrition, then the hemoglobin level is not greatly reduced ( not less than 70 g / l, and more often - more than 90 g / l). However, the deficiency of certain substances creates a chronic problem. Because of this, hemoglobin falls gradually, the body gets used to it and manages to start all compensatory mechanisms. Thus, patients may not have any symptoms or complaints for a long time.

The most common nutritional problems are:

  • lack of iron;
  • lack of vitamin B12;
  • lack of folic acid;
  • lack of proteins.
Normally, all these substances enter the body with food. However, sometimes there are situations when the body begins to absorb them poorly, or there is an increased need ( e.g. during pregnancy). If the consumption of these substances is not increased at the right time, anemia can develop.

In advanced cases, it is not enough just to change the diet by increasing the intake of a certain substance. Reserves in the body are restored slowly. Therefore, in addition to a special diet, the patient is often prescribed a course of treatment with appropriate drugs.

chronic infectious diseases

Some infectious diseases can also affect the level of hemoglobin in the blood. Most often, this manifestation occurs in children. In these cases, anemia is mild and may not present with any specific symptoms. The main condition for increasing hemoglobin in these cases is the elimination of acute infectious processes and chronic foci. After that, under normal power supply ( even without a special diet) blood tests gradually return to normal.

Reduced hemoglobin can occur with the following infectious diseases:

  • severe angina;
In adults, after a streptococcal infection, low hemoglobin may be due to rheumatism. More serious anemias sometimes develop against the background of severe infectious processes that greatly disrupt the functioning of the body as a whole. These include sepsis, cellulitis and other purulent diseases.

Bleeding

All bleeding can be divided into two main types. In the first case, we are talking about the rapid loss of a large volume of blood, which is typical for serious injuries with damage to large vessels. Then it is not so much about lowering the level of hemoglobin in the blood, but about massive blood loss in general, which creates an immediate threat to the patient's life. After surgery or stopping bleeding in other ways, hemoglobin may remain low for a long time.

The second variant of bleeding is more common. We are talking about short recurring episodes of blood loss over a long period of time. In this case, the volume of fluid usually manages to be compensated normally by the body, but the formation of hemoglobin and red blood cells takes a little longer. Because of this, anemia occurs and when appropriate tests are performed, the hemoglobin level will be lowered.

Causes of frequent recurrent bleeding can be:

  • heavy menstruation in girls against the background of gynecological diseases;
  • single or multiple polyps ( uterus, cervix, intestines and other hollow organs);
  • bleeding disorders ( hemophilia, etc.);
  • chronic inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
  • prolonged postoperative bleeding;
  • malignant neoplasms.

Bone marrow tumors

As you know, the process of formation of hemoglobin and red blood cells occurs in the cells of the red bone marrow. It contains entire generations of blood cells, which eventually differentiate, mature and enter the peripheral blood. In some cases, the tumor process directly affects the bone marrow. Then the synthesis of hemoglobin and erythrocytes is disturbed, and they do not enter the blood in normal quantities. Also, the process of maturation of cells in the bone marrow is sometimes affected by serious poisoning or exposure to a large dose of radiation.

Anemia that occurs against the background of bone marrow damage is characterized by a relatively rapid drop in hemoglobin levels and the patient's severe condition. It is very difficult to raise hemoglobin in these cases. Sometimes the only effective treatment is repeated blood transfusions or even a bone marrow transplant. In general, the prognosis depends directly on the type and extent of damage to cellular structures.

Acute poisoning

Acute food poisoning or poisoning with complex chemical compounds often leads to a decrease in the level of hemoglobin in the blood. This is due to the so-called hemolytic action of some toxins. When they enter the human body, they lead to the rapid destruction of red blood cells. This results in anemia. Toxins that cause hemolysis can be of almost any origin ( industrial, domestic, microbial, animal or vegetable).

The most common poisons that destroy red blood cells are:

  • aniline dyes;
  • hydrogen sulfide and its compounds;
  • arsenic;
  • lead;
  • some snake venoms cobra);
  • benzene.
Immediately after the poison enters the blood, a critical period occurs when the largest number of erythrocytes is simultaneously destroyed. There is a sharp drop in the level of red blood cells and hemoglobin, which endangers the life of the patient. After that, a gradual rise in these indicators is observed. The bone marrow begins to work in an enhanced mode and produces more cells. During this period, in order to speed up recovery, iron, folic acid, etc. are sometimes also prescribed.

kidney disease

As mentioned above, the important hormone erythropoietin is produced in the kidneys, which stimulates the synthesis of hemoglobin and red blood cells in the bone marrow. With a lack of this hormone in the blood, patients gradually develop anemia, and hemoglobin drops to very low levels without specific treatment ( below 70 g/l). The root cause of such anemia is various kidney damage. In this case, anemia develops in parallel with them.

Low hemoglobin can be observed in the following diseases:

  • acute and chronic glomerulonephritis;
  • autoimmune lesions of the kidney tissue;
  • kidney damage as part of systemic infections.
The treatment of these diseases in this case is the main way to raise hemoglobin. In parallel, a special diet is also prescribed with a high content of the components necessary for the normal formation of red blood cells.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

Some diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are characterized by a serious violation of the absorption of nutrients. Because of this, the same iron, folic acid or vitamin B12 enters the body in the required quantities, but is not absorbed from the intestines into the blood. In this case, even with a strict diet, the hemoglobin level will remain low.

The following diseases can reduce the level of hemoglobin in the blood by malabsorption in the intestine:

  • chronic colitis;
  • chronic gastritis ( in the acute stage);
  • a number of diseases of the liver and pancreas;
  • cirrhosis of the liver;
  • neoplasms of the small intestine.

Autoimmune hemolytic anemias

With this type of anemia, a reduced level of red blood cells and hemoglobin is due to increased hemolysis. It occurs because antibodies produced by the immune system begin to attack their own red blood cells, causing them to be destroyed. Depending on the specific type of antibody, not only mature red blood cells in the peripheral blood, but also cells and enzymes in the bone marrow can be attacked. Then the very process of hemoglobin formation is disrupted.

Typically, such anemia is characterized by a strong decrease in the level of red blood cells and hemoglobin. Without suppression of the immune system, it is not possible to carry out adequate treatment, since more and more portions of antibodies are thrown into the blood. To fully restore the level of hemoglobin, complex therapy with the use of various pharmacological preparations is required.

Thus, low hemoglobin can be caused by a wide range of different diseases and disorders in the body. In this case, effective treatment is possible only after establishing the root cause of the disease. Just a blood transfusion or a diet high in iron and other trace elements rarely provide long-term stabilization of the situation.

How to raise hemoglobin if the cause of low hemoglobin is a lack of iron?

In most cases, iron deficiency in the body does not require urgent hospitalization of the patient. However, it is he who has been considered in recent years the most common cause of low hemoglobin. Loss of iron from the body occurs mainly due to frequent blood loss. It is rather difficult to compensate for a reduced level of iron due to the characteristics of the gastrointestinal tract. Through the intestinal mucosa mainly at the level of the duodenum only a small amount of dietary iron is absorbed. However, it is very important for patients with this type of anemia to follow a special diet. Its meaning lies in the use of foods rich in iron. In mild cases ( with a moderate decrease in hemoglobin) this may eventually completely solve the problem.
Product category The product's name Iron content in 100 g of product ( mg)
Meat and meat by-products beef liver 5,6 – 6,1
Pork liver 11,8 – 12,2
chicken liver 8,0 – 8,9
Beef 3,1 – 3,5
Pork 1,4 – 1,7
rabbit meat 4,1 – 4,8
Mutton 2,2 – 2,5
Chicken 1,2 – 1,8
Turkey 1,7 – 1,9
Fish and other seafood Mollusks cephalopods
(squids, etc.)
8,5 – 9,5
bivalve molluscs
(mussels)
6,5 – 6,9
Crustaceans
(shrimp, crabs)
1,6 – 1,9
Canned sardines 2,4 – 3,0
Canned tuna 1,2 – 1,6
Eggs Chicken 2,3 – 2,7
Quail 3,4 – 3,7
Legumes Green pea 6,5 – 6,9
Beans
(green/white/red)
5,8/3,8/3,0
Soya 4,9 – 5,3
beans 2,7 – 3,1
Greens
(dark green leafy vegetables)
Parsley 5,4 – 5,9
Spinach 3,3 – 3,9
Turnip
(greens)
1,0 – 1,2
Cabbage
(cauliflower/brussels/chinese/broccoli)
1,5/1,4/1,2/1,1
plant seeds and nuts Sesame 14,3 – 14,8
Seeds
(sunflower)
6,7 – 6,9
Peanut 4,4 – 4,8
Almond 4,1 – 4,4
pistachios 4,7 – 4,9
Walnut 3,4 – 3,7
Flour products and cereals
(some types of bread are specially enriched with iron, this is indicated on the packaging)
Rye bread 3,7 – 4,2
Wholemeal bread 2,3 – 2,7
Wheat bran 10,4 – 11,0
Buckwheat 7,7 – 8,0
Corn 2,5 – 2,8
oats 3,3 – 3,7
Millet 2,6 – 2,9
Other herbal products Persimmon 2,3 – 2,6
Celery 1,1 – 1,4
Watermelon 0,9 – 1,2
Potato 0,7 – 1,5

When compiling a direct menu for a sick patient, the daily intake of this substance should be taken into account. In a healthy person ( without anemia) contains approximately 4 g of iron in the body. Every day he loses about 1 mg, and with adequate nutrition he receives 2-3 mg. The excess does not accumulate, but simply is not absorbed in the intestines. When calculating the dose that comes with food, it must be taken into account that only 5-10% of the amount received will be absorbed. In people with anemia ( including pregnant women) this percentage rises to 20 - 30 due to the fact that special auxiliary mechanisms are involved.

With low hemoglobin levels ( 100 or less) drug treatment is prescribed without fail, regardless of whether the patient complies with the necessary diet. Iron preparations are used to restore hemoglobin levels ( salts, oxides and other chemical compounds rich in this element). In these medicines, iron is presented in the most well-absorbed form. If from food ( even at the highest concentration of iron in it) is absorbed no more than 2.5 mg / day, then when taking special iron preparations, it is absorbed 10-15 times more. The course of treatment lasts, as a rule, at least several weeks. The main criterion for evaluating the effectiveness are the normal results of laboratory tests.

Preparations for the medical treatment of iron deficiency anemia


Name of the drug Method of use Dose
Sorbifer The tablet is swallowed whole with a sufficient amount of liquid. Optimally - half a glass of boiled water. Adults 1 - 2 tablets per day.
If necessary - up to 3 - 4 tablets ( in 2 doses).
Aktiferrin Available in the form of capsules and drops for oral administration. Capsules are taken 30 minutes before meals without chewing. You can drink water or fruit juice. Drops - 5 drops per 1 kg of body weight.

A more precise dosage is prescribed by the attending physician.

Capsules - 1 capsule 1 - 2 times a day ( adults weighing more than 50 kg).

Hemohelper Classified as dietary supplement ( dietary supplement). The course of admission is 60 days. The dose is determined by age.

Children under 3 years old the drug is not prescribed.

At the age of 3 - 7 years the dose is 1 - 2 capsules per day,
at 7 - 4 years old - 1 - 6 capsules,
after 14 years - up to 9 capsules.

Ferlatum Produced in bottles of 15 ml. It is taken before meals. Adults 1 - 2 bottles in 2 divided doses ( 15 - 30 ml solution).

children - depending on body weight, 1.5 ml per 1 kg of body weight.

Maltofer It is used intramuscularly in the form of injections.

Before starting a course of treatment, a drug tolerance test is mandatory ( a quarter and then a half dose is administered).

After the injection, you should move for a while ( walk around the room).

Adults 1 ampoule per day ( 2 ml solution).

children calculated by body weight.

The dose may vary widely depending on the iron deficiency. It is calculated by the attending physician maximum for adults - 2 ampoules per day).


When taking iron preparations, the possibility of an overdose of drugs should be considered. Therefore, the patient must strictly follow the instructions of the attending physician to achieve the desired effect. These medicines must be kept out of the reach of children. Also, treatment with iron preparations has two important features. Firstly, coffee and tea slow down their absorption in the intestines, and vitamin C ( in juices) speeds up. Secondly, after the assimilation of iron, intestinal cells will be immune to a new portion for another 6-7 hours, so you should not drink drugs more than 2 times a day.

How to raise hemoglobin if the cause of low hemoglobin is a lack of vitamin B12?

Nowadays, in medical practice, anemia due to B12 deficiency in food is quite rare. The fact is that the reserves of this substance in the body are large and their depletion is possible only with prolonged malnutrition ( at least 6 months). Most often, such anemia develops due to a deficiency of the so-called intrinsic factor or Castle factor. This is an enzyme produced by the cells of the stomach and is responsible for a kind of "activation" of vitamin B12, which came with food. The release of this factor may be impaired after surgery on the stomach or in some diseases of this organ. Slightly less common are situations when the body itself produces antibodies that interfere with the production of the Castle factor.

Thus, it is not easy to raise hemoglobin with a lack of vitamin B12. To do this, it is necessary to conduct a series of tests and find out what the body really lacks - the vitamin itself in food or the Castle factor. In the first case, it is recommended to follow a diet with the use of foods containing vitamin B12. Often this can eliminate the problem without taking medication. More serious treatment is prescribed in case of severe anemia, when the patient has obvious symptoms of low hemoglobin.

Product category The product's name The content of vitamin B12 in 100 g of product ( mcg)
Meat and meat by-products beef liver 45 - 65
chicken liver 14,5 – 17,5
Pork liver 20 - 40
rabbit meat 3,8 – 5,2
Beef 2,2 – 2,8
Pork 1,2 – 3,3
Mutton 1,7 – 2,4
Fish and other seafood Mollusks cephalopods 17 - 23
Carp 1,5 – 2,0
Crab 0,8 – 1,4
Cod 1,4 – 1,8
Sardine 10,5 – 11,4
Mackerel 11,4 – 13,1
Perch
(river)
2,0 – 3,0
Other products Hard cheeses 1,1 – 2,0
Sour cream 0,3 – 0,5
Chicken eggs 0,4 – 0,7

Thus, vitamin B12 is found predominantly in animal products. This explains the fact that almost 90% of cases of alimentary ( food) deficiency of this substance occurs in vegetarians and vegans. They should especially pay attention to the use of vitamin B12. You can even periodically undergo preventive courses of drug treatment ( about once a year) to replenish the reserves of this substance in the body.

With moderate anemia, as mentioned above, treatment at home is possible. Then you should adhere to the daily intake of vitamin B12 and adapt the diet to the needs of the body. In childhood, this is 0.4 - 1.2 μg of vitamin per day ( for children up to 8 years old). For adults, the norm is 2.4 micrograms per day, and for pregnant and lactating women, it increases to 2.6 - 2.8 micrograms.

Drug treatment is prescribed in cases where the patient suffers from a serious decrease in hemoglobin levels, and the diet cannot help restore it quickly. The drug of choice is cyanocobalamin. It is administered as an injection ( in injections) subcutaneously or intramuscularly. During the first week, high doses are prescribed - 200 - 400 mcg / day. Then the dose is gradually reduced to one injection per week ( 400 mg) and continue such treatment until the normalization of laboratory parameters ( restoration of hemoglobin levels). Allergic reactions can be treated with drugs that suppress the immune system ( prednisolone), or switching to an analogue of cyanocobalamin - hydroxycobalamin. The latter has a weaker therapeutic effect, so the dose is calculated individually by the attending physician. Patients with disorders of the formation of internal factor of Castle are shown periodic courses of injections of vitamin B12 throughout their lives. In this case, it enters the body bypassing the stomach, and its activation is not required.

It is believed that the norm for the use of folic acid is 50 - 200 mcg / day. In this case, the minimum dose is indicated for infants at 1 year of age, and the maximum for an adult. This volume of folic acid is consumed by various body tissues. A significant part goes to the synthesis of red blood cells and the normal production of hemoglobin. In some situations, folic acid begins to be consumed faster, which increases the risk of anemia. The risk group includes patients with various neoplasms, some inflammatory diseases, children in a period of rapid growth, as well as pregnant and lactating women. In these cases, the intake of folic acid increases by 50-100 micrograms.

With a slight decrease in hemoglobin in the blood against the background of a lack of folic acid, it is recommended to pay attention to the diet. This substance is found in products of both plant and animal origin, so it will not be difficult to follow a diet.

Product category The product's name The content of folic acid in 100 g of product ( mcg)
Vegetables and garden greens Legumes
(beans, beans, etc.)
155 - 162
Young shoots of asparagus 260 - 270
Spinach 78 - 83
Tomatoes 43 - 50
lettuce 37 - 45
Cabbage
(ordinary)
18 - 27
Onion ( onion) 9 - 12
Fruits and berries Mandarin 270 - 275
Avocado 81 - 90
Orange 42 - 44
Watermelon 37 - 39
Lemon 2 - 7
Bread and cereals Buckwheat 47 - 51
Wheat 32 - 39
rye 33 - 35
Bread
(wholemeal flour)
28 - 31
oatmeal 24 - 29
Barley 21 - 30
Rice 17 - 22
nuts Peanut 230 - 250
Almond 37 - 44
walnut 72 - 85
Meat and meat by-products beef liver 235 - 247
Pork liver 215 - 228
chicken liver 250 - 255
Cod liver
(canned)
105 - 120
Eggs Chicken 5 - 8
Quail 7 - 11
With a more serious decrease in hemoglobin, or in cases where the prescribed diet does not help, they resort to drug treatment. Folic acid is given as a tablet, powder, or injection. The method of application depends on the causes of the disease. When it comes to prophylactic use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or folic acid deficiency in the diet, oral administration of 1-5 mg per day is preferred ( depending on the severity of the disease). In intestinal malabsorption ( Crohn's disease, bowel surgery, etc.) preferably the introduction of folic acid in injections, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract.

For a prophylactic course, doses should be reduced to 0.1 - 0.4 mg / day. The maximum prophylactic dose is recommended during pregnancy. In general, the calculation of the dose and the duration of the course of treatment is determined by the attending physician after making a diagnosis and conducting all the necessary tests. The problem is that the dose is too high. more than what the body needs in a particular situation) inhibits the absorption of folic acid from the intestine. Then there is "satiation" and further treatment will not have the desired effect.

How to raise hemoglobin if the cause of low hemoglobin is protein deficiency?

Protein deficiency is not directly related to the hematopoietic organs. All proteins that the body receives with food are made up of various amino acids. It is these amino acids that are a kind of "building blocks", from which the body then begins to create its own proteins. If the patient's food is poor in proteins, the processes of formation of new substances and tissues in general are disrupted. One of the possible manifestations of protein deficiency is anemia. The fact is that hemoglobin also contains a protein part, consisting of amino acids. If they are not enough in the body, then the synthesis of hemoglobin is disturbed.

Patients with anemia due to protein deficiency are usually in serious condition. Even if hemoglobin is not so low, symptoms from other organs and systems are possible ( not only hematopoietic). Therefore, patients are recommended to be hospitalized for the speedy recovery of protein levels. All patients, regardless of severity, must adhere to a special diet.

The diet is focused on foods rich in protein. It should be borne in mind that different products contain different proteins. For example, the chemical composition of fish is different from that of meat proteins. Therefore, food should be varied ( do not eat only 1 - 2 foods that have the highest protein content). Then the body will receive all the necessary set of amino acids, and the hemoglobin level will recover faster. Protein intake rates may vary. For an adult, on average, 75 - 85 g of protein per day is needed. Larger amounts may be needed during pregnancy or certain chronic conditions. It is impossible to accurately establish the norms in this case, since the body itself assimilates the required amount of amino acids, depending on various conditions and factors.

Product category The product's name Protein content in 100 g of product ( G)
Meat and meat by-products Mutton 23 - 25
Pork 19 - 22
Beef 22 - 24
Chicken 25 - 27
Offal chicken
(liver, heart, etc.)
17 - 21
Liver
(beef/pork/lamb)
18/17/19
Eggs Chicken 11 - 13
Quail 25 - 28
duck 14 - 17
Fish and other seafood Beluga 22 - 27
Carp 19,5 - 21
Pink salmon 20,5 – 22,2
Sardine
(canned)
22,5 - 26
Sturgeon 16 - 17
Salmon 15 – 16,5
Squid 17 - 19
Crabs ( meat) 18 - 20
Perch 17 - 21
Sturgeon caviar 28 - 30
Dairy Milk 3 – 3,5
Kefir 2,8 – 3,1
Sour cream 1,3 – 1,7
Cheese
(solid)
27 - 33
Cheese
(fused)
17,5 – 22,2
Cottage cheese 13 - 17
Legumes Soya 12 – 13,5
Beans 22 - 24
Peas 5,2 – 5,5
Bread and cereals Rye bread 4,5 – 4,9
wheat bread 7,7 – 8,0
muffin
(other pastries)
7,5 – 7,7
Buckwheat grain 12 – 13,2
Oat groats 10,5 – 11,5
Rice 6,6 – 7,4
nuts Walnut 13,5 – 14,1
Peanut 25 - 27
Almond 18 - 19

With a low level of hemoglobin and symptoms from other organs and systems, urgent replenishment of blood proteins may be necessary. Then we will talk about drip intravenous administration of special solutions. This is done strictly in a hospital setting for special indications. In general, protein deficiency is rare as a cause of anemia.

An alternative to a protein diet can be the intake of dietary supplements containing amino acids. Their prophylactic course can contribute to the rapid synthesis of new proteins in the body ( including hemoglobin).

Other ways to increase hemoglobin

If the level of hemoglobin in the blood is severely low, doctors may resort to blood transfusions ( blood transfusions). Currently, this refers to emergency treatments, which are avoided due to possible serious complications. However, there is no faster way to restore hemoglobin levels than to inject donated blood or necessary blood substitutes directly into the patient's vein. In case of a sharp drop in hemoglobin against the background of acute blood loss ( heavy bleeding) speak of absolute indications for transfusion. This means that without this procedure, the patient may die in the near future, and we are talking about saving his life. Thus, any contraindications and risks can be considered relative, and they are neglected. If hemoglobin fell gradually, and the body partly compensates for its lack on its own, a situation arises when transfusion is only one of the treatment options. Here you should pay attention to contraindications.

Contraindications for blood transfusion may include:

  • clotting disorders ( hemocoagulation);
The fact is that for the patient's body, donor blood is perceived, first of all, as a foreign tissue. Because of this, the risk of various adverse reactions is high, even if the blood type and Rh factor are the same. The problem is that the cells that are introduced into the body have other proteins as well. This can lead to shock. In addition, long-term storage of donated blood leads to the adhesion of its components. The resulting conglomerates can "get stuck" in the thin capillaries of the pulmonary circulation and cause the so-called "shock lung". There is also a high risk of blood clots. Contrary to popular belief, when used for blood transfusion from special banks, the risk of contracting various infections is negligible. All accepted blood must be checked for AIDS, syphilis, viral hepatitis and a number of other diseases.

There are also a number of criteria by which a doctor can navigate in order to understand whether a patient needs a blood transfusion. A drop in the hemoglobin level below 70 g/l, accompanied by a general loss of blood ( the volume of circulating blood is reduced by more than 30%). Another indicator is a hematocrit of less than 25%. In rare cases, the indication is the absence of other methods of treatment. For example, in some chronic diseases, blood transfusions are carried out regularly, despite the existing risk.



How to increase hemoglobin folk remedies?

With a slight decrease in hemoglobin levels ( not less than 100 g/l) and the absence of pronounced symptoms of anemia, the disease can be fought with the help of folk remedies. Since this disease is very common in medical practice, traditional medicine has accumulated considerable experience in its treatment. Most of these funds are aimed at the intake of substances necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin and erythrocytes ( red blood cells containing hemoglobin) in the red bone marrow.

Traditional medicine mainly uses special dietary products, as well as infusions and decoctions rich in vitamin B12, folic acid and iron. Plants that contain a wide range of other micronutrients are also used ( zinc, magnesium, vitamins of other groups). All this creates favorable conditions for the production of hemoglobin.

The most common folk remedies that can help increase hemoglobin are:

  • Carrots with sour cream. Daily consumption of carrots in the morning with sour cream or vegetable oil stimulates the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells in the red bone marrow. It is recommended to eat 100 - 150 g of carrots ( can be grated) at a time.
  • potato juice. Raw potato juice also stimulates blood formation in the body. It is squeezed out and filtered through clean gauze or a bandage folded several times. After that, the juice is drunk half a cup before meals 2-3 times a day. For a tangible result, the course of treatment should be at least 2 to 3 weeks.
  • Nettle decoction. For cooking, the tops of the young shoots of the plant are taken. For 1 liter of water, you need a glass of nettles. They are thrown into boiling water and boiled for 3-5 minutes. After that, the greens are filtered, and the broth is cooled and drunk 1-2 cups a day.
  • Infusion of walnuts. Young walnuts crushed ( can be in a blender or meat grinder) and topped with vodka. For 1 glass of nuts, there is approximately 0.5 liters of vodka. They are insisted in a dark place for a week, stirring occasionally. After that, the infusion is filtered and stored in the refrigerator. The infusion is consumed 1 tablespoon once a day. If desired, you can seize with honey.
  • Rowan tincture. Freshly picked ripe fruits of mountain ash are poured with boiling water and infused for 1 - 2 hours. For 1 cup of boiling water, you need 2 teaspoons of fruit. Sugar can be added to the tincture to taste. It is taken 2 - 3 times a day for half a cup.
  • Infusion of meadow clover. Flower heads are separated from freshly picked meadow clover and poured with boiling water. For 10 flower heads, 200 ml of water is needed. Infusion lasts at least 45 minutes. After that, the infusion is filtered and consumed 2 tablespoons 3-4 times a day.
  • Yarrow infusion. For 60 g of dry grass ( collection can be purchased at the pharmacy) you need 200 - 250 ml of boiling water. The mixture is infused for 60 - 90 minutes and consumed 1 teaspoon 2 - 3 times a day.

In parallel with these traditional medicine recipes, attention is paid to the diet. It must necessarily include meat, fresh fruits and vegetables. It is also recommended to eat beef or chicken liver more often ( preferably boiled, not fried), as it contains a large amount of substances necessary for hematopoiesis. Freshly squeezed juices are recommended for drinks. Pomegranate, beetroot and carrot juice have the greatest benefit for low hemoglobin.

All of the above remedies have limited potential for the treatment of anemia. The fact is that they restore only the intake of all the substances necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin. However, the intestinal mucosa itself can absorb only a certain amount of iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid. Therefore, the course of treatment with these drugs can be long ( weeks, months), and increasing the above dose will not bring a more pronounced effect. Moreover, when the dose is exceeded and some drugs are consumed in large quantities, some side effects may appear. The most common are diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, exacerbation of gastritis or stomach ulcers.

In a number of patients, the level of hemoglobin during the course of treatment may not only not increase, but even fall even more. This indicates problems with the absorption of nutrients in the intestines or diseases of the bone marrow. Then anemia is not associated with a deficiency in the diet of iron or other substances. To increase hemoglobin, such patients should undergo an additional course of examination, during which the true cause of the disease will be established. Treatment with traditional medicine will not have the desired effect.

Symptoms such as dizziness, pallor, chronic fatigue, and sleep disturbances should be a signal to see a doctor. Patients with a hemoglobin level of less than 100 g / l should immediately begin a course of treatment with medications due to the threat of various complications. The use of traditional medicine is possible as an adjuvant therapy, but then it must be agreed with the attending physician.

How to increase hemoglobin during pregnancy?

Decreased hemoglobin is one of the most common problems during pregnancy. First of all, this is due to the fact that the growing fetus consumes a significant part of the nutrients. They come from the mother's body and go to create new tissues. However, the mother's body itself may experience a lack of certain substances. Most often, this is reflected precisely in the hematopoietic system. A rarer cause is recurrent blood loss or associated pregnancy complications. Then anemia can be caused in part by a direct loss of red blood cells and hemoglobin.

Based on this, the best way to increase hemoglobin during pregnancy is to increase the intake of substances necessary for hematopoiesis. Even with a normal level of hemoglobin during pregnancy and feeding, expectant mothers are prescribed prophylactic intake of folic acid, vitamin B12, and iron. If we are talking about pathology, and the woman already has signs of anemia, it is urgent to be examined by a specialist. The fact is that a progressive drop in hemoglobin is dangerous, first of all, for a growing fetus.

The Body's Requirements for Essential Nutrients During Pregnancy

Nutrients Daily intake
total calorie intake 2200 - 2500 kcal ( on average 300 kcal more than before pregnancy)
Protein 1.2 - 2 g of protein per 1 kg of mother's weight
Fats 80 - 100 g, of which 30 - 35% vegetable origin
Carbohydrates 350 - 450 g
Iron 30 - 33 mg
Vitamin B12 2.6 mcg
Folic acid
(vitamin B9)
300 mcg

Of course, the above data are more of a guide value. Here are the consumption rates for a healthy woman, without complications during pregnancy and with a normal level of hemoglobin. In each case, the consumption rates of certain substances can vary within a fairly wide range. For example, in the case of carrying twins, the needs of the body increase even more. There are also some differences at different stages of pregnancy.

For preventive purposes, for increased intake of iron and other nutrients in the body, you can use the following foods:

  • red meat;
  • freshly squeezed fruit juices carrots, pomegranate, etc.);
  • spinach;
  • seafood;
  • liver ( beef, chicken, pork);
  • nuts;
  • wholemeal bread;
  • porridge.
All these foods are rich in iron, folic acid and vitamin B12, which are most important for the normal production of hemoglobin and red blood cells in the red bone marrow. True, one should also observe how the body tolerates unusual food. If seafood exacerbates allergies, and bran bread causes flatulence, it is advisable to reconsider the diet. Gradually, the patient herself understands which foods are best absorbed by the body. If there are certain difficulties with compiling a daily menu, you can always seek help from a dietitian.

If a woman has a decrease in hemoglobin during pregnancy, a drug course of treatment is usually prescribed. One diet in this case will not correct the situation, because the ability of the intestinal mucosa to absorb, for example, iron from food is limited. Fortunately, these days there is a wide selection of drugs approved for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

For the treatment of anemia of varying severity in pregnant women, the following drugs can be used:

  • With B12 deficiency anemia during pregnancy, treatment with cyanocobalamin ( standard for this disease) can be carried out only with the permission of the attending physician and in small doses. This drug may be contraindicated during pregnancy.
  • With folic acid deficiency treatment begins with doses of this substance at 0.1 - 0.8 mg / day and increase as needed. Even with a normal hemoglobin level, it is recommended to start maintenance treatment at a dose of 0.1 mg / day and continue it during breastfeeding at 60 mcg / day.
The most common problem in pregnant women in medical practice is iron deficiency. In this regard, there are many preparations containing this microelement in the form of various compounds and approved for use during pregnancy. For orientation in prophylactic use, the packages usually, in addition to the recommended dose, indicate the amount in terms of pure ferrous iron. In the case of a decrease in hemoglobin ( up to 90 g/l and below) you should definitely consult a doctor. He will not only determine the required dose of the drug, but also indicate the preferred form of its use ( in the form of capsules, tablets, injections).

The most common iron preparations in medical practice are:

  • tardiferon;
  • maltofer;
  • sorbifer;
  • ferroplex;
  • ferrum-lek.
Combined iron preparations containing small doses of vitamin B12 and B9 are also useful. Many preparations also provide vitamin C, succinic acid and fructose. These substances increase the absorption of iron in the small intestine. Thus, the body receives a larger dose than with the usual consumption of iron-rich foods. Self-administration of these drugs is not recommended due to possible side effects and complications of pregnancy.

Also, the cause of low hemoglobin can be chronic diseases exacerbated by pregnancy. In these cases, the intake of large amounts of nutrients through food or in the form of special preparations may not be effective. Directed medical treatment will be required to correct the problem. That is why it is strongly recommended when the hemoglobin level drops below 120 g / l ( lower limit of normal for women) undergo a preventive consultation with a doctor to make an accurate diagnosis.

How to increase hemoglobin in oncology?

In oncological diseases, there are several reasons for a decrease in hemoglobin. The tactics of treating anemia depends on which mechanism is involved in a particular case. Therefore, before starting treatment, it is necessary to be sure of the diagnosis and have the results of the main examinations.

In oncological diseases, the following mechanisms for lowering hemoglobin are possible:

  • Blood loss. In malignant neoplasms, the so-called endophytic tumor growth takes place. This means that dividing cells not only increase in number, but are also capable of destroying nearby tissues. In the later stages, such a tumor can damage the wall of the blood vessel, which often leads to massive bleeding. Red blood cells and the hemoglobin they contain also leave the body with blood. After bleeding stops, patients experience anemia of varying severity. If the hemoglobin level has decreased precisely after bleeding, then attention should be paid to the sufficient intake of all the substances necessary to make up for losses with food. With a severe drop in hemoglobin levels ( below 70 g/l) the patient should be urgently hospitalized. You may need not only an additional course of drug treatment, but also an emergency blood transfusion. The problem is that the malignant growth of the tumor leads to repeated bleeding. Because of this, it is very difficult to fight anemia. Radiation therapy or chemotherapy can slow down the growth of the neoplasm. However, these methods alone cannot be applied in the case of very low hemoglobin.
  • Increased need for nutrients. The essence of any oncological disease is that in the human body there is an increased division of certain cells. Such intensive growth requires an appropriate supply of nutrients. Because of this, the body gradually depletes the reserves of folic acid, vitamin B12, iron and other trace elements necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin. It is noteworthy that this mechanism for the development of anemia is characteristic not only for malignant neoplasms, but also for benign ones, if they grow rapidly. Most often, to increase hemoglobin in this case, you should follow a diet that will replenish depleted reserves. If possible, the tumor is also removed or its growth is slowed down. Hemoglobin levels usually recover within a few weeks.
  • Oncological diseases of the bone marrow. Cancer can also develop in the bone marrow. This disrupts the normal division of progenitor cells. These are entire generations of immature cells that have not yet turned into red blood cells or other blood cells. The problem in this case is that the very process of hemoglobin and red blood cell synthesis is disrupted. Patients often have very severe anemia that cannot be corrected by any diet or medication. The body simply cannot turn the substances that have entered into it into the final product - hemoglobin. An effective treatment is radiotherapy or chemotherapy. However, the ultimate success depends on the type of disease and its stage.
  • Oncological diseases of the kidneys. In kidney tumors, another mechanism for the development of anemia may be involved. It is associated with insufficient production of erythropoietin. This hormone is produced by the kidneys and stimulates the division of red blood cells and the formation of hemoglobin. In patients with kidney tumors, anemia usually develops gradually. To eliminate it, the use of synthetic analogues of erythropoietin is required. The most common of these are Epobiocrin, Eprex, Epostim. The choice of the drug and the determination of the required dose is made by the attending physician after a special analysis.
  • Suppression of hematopoiesis ( blood cell formation) . Many cancer patients undergo aggressive treatments. As a rule, it is chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Both of these methods can seriously affect hematopoiesis ( process of blood cell formation). The division of progenitor cells is disrupted, and the level of the corresponding cells in the blood falls. The problem in this case is not the oncological disease itself, but the side effect of its treatment. Unfortunately, for many patients, such courses of treatment are the only chance to overcome the disease. Therefore, a diet with a high content of substances necessary for hematopoiesis is recommended. Iron, folic acid, vitamin B12 preparations are also prescribed. This allows to some extent to compensate for low hemoglobin and complete the main course of treatment. With irreversible damage to the bone marrow, which are determined by puncture, it is possible to transplant it. This method of treatment has many of its own indications and contraindications, so it is not used in all cases.
As mentioned above, the main method of increasing hemoglobin in oncological diseases is to follow an appropriate diet. By and large, its only difference from the usual diet is the increased consumption of foods containing iron, folic acid and vitamin B12. The specific limitations in this case are the same as in general with oncological diseases.

The most valuable products for raising hemoglobin levels are:

  • red meat. Beef and other red meats contain a significant amount of substances necessary for the formation of red blood cells. 100 g of the product contains up to 4 mg of iron, 3 µg of vitamin B12, 24 g of protein.
  • Liver. The liver belongs to meat offal, but its value is due to the fact that it accumulates a large amount of useful substances that are contained in ordinary meat in smaller quantities. For 100 g of boiled liver, there are approximately 5-15 mg of iron, 15-60 µg of vitamin B12, 200-250 µg of folic acid, 18-20 g of protein.
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables. From vegetables and fruits, freshly squeezed juices of carrots, beets, and pomegranates should be distinguished. They contain a large number of various trace elements. In addition, asparagus and other greens are very high in folic acid ( up to 250 mcg per 100 g of product). As a source of protein, legumes are the most useful ( beans, soybeans, peas).
  • Seafood. Fish and other seafood are characterized by a variety of different micronutrients, including those that cannot be obtained from meat or plant foods. Marine fish proteins contain a unique set of amino acids that are also needed by the body.
  • nuts. Nuts are an important source of a wide variety of substances. For anemia, peanuts can serve as a source of protein ( up to 25 g per 100 g of product). He is also the champion in the content of folic acid - up to 250 mcg per 100 g.
It should be noted that not all of these products can be used in oncological diseases. This is especially true for neoplasms in the digestive tract ( gastrointestinal tract). The body simply may not be able to cope with the intake of indigestible food, and this will worsen the patient's condition. Therefore, the final selection of the diet should be done in consultation with the attending physician, who will tell you exactly which foods will contribute to the rise in hemoglobin and will not harm the patient.

How to increase hemoglobin in diabetes?

Anemia in diabetes mellitus is an infrequent but very serious complication that greatly worsens the prognosis for the patient and requires urgent treatment. The fact is that against the background of diabetes, the kidneys are seriously affected. If the sugar level is kept at a high level for a long time, then the kidney tissue is gradually damaged and replaced by a connective tissue that does not perform any functions. At the same time, kidney health is very important for the normal functioning of the bone marrow. The kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin. It stimulates the growth, development and maturation of young red blood cells, and also increases the production of hemoglobin. Against the background of diabetic nephropathy ( medical name for a specific kidney lesion) production of erythropoietin falls. This is the reason for the poor functioning of the bone marrow and low hemoglobin.

In this case, such a common remedy as a diet rich in iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 does not have the desired effect. Treatment is based on two main postulates. First, you need to lower your blood sugar levels to normal levels. The patient must understand that every hour lived with an elevated glucose level leads to the death of still unaffected areas of the renal tissue. Thus, knocking down sugar by introducing insulin ( or its analogues, which are usually used by the patient), the progression of the disease can be prevented.

The second important component of treatment is a course of erythropoietin. Like most other hormones, it has been artificially synthesized and is now available in a variety of pharmaceutical forms.

Erythropoietin-based drugs

Name of the drug Dosage and administration
Epoetin beta Administered intravenously ( i/v) or subcutaneously ( PC). The standard scheme is 20 international units per kilogram of body weight ( IU/kg) 3 times a week or 10 IU/kg for 7 days. With intravenous administration - 40 IU / kg three times a week. If there is no effect, the dose can be doubled for 3-4 weeks of treatment. It is used in oncological and congenital diseases ( in newborns). Contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation.
Epostim Introduced in / in or s / c. To correct the level of hemoglobin and return to normal, 30 IU / kg are prescribed three times a week s / c ( IV up to 50 IU/kg). The effectiveness of treatment is assessed by the level of hematocrit. If necessary, the dose is reduced or increased by one and a half times. After reaching a hemoglobin level of more than 120 - 130 g / l, maintenance treatment is prescribed ( if kidney damage is irreversible). After that, the dose is reduced by one and a half times, and if hemoglobin rises above 150 - 160 g / l, the drug is temporarily canceled.
Epomax Introduced s / c or / in. The optimal dose is 20 - 50 IU / kg ( depending on the method of administration). In the absence of effect, the dose is increased to 60 - 75 IU / kg three times a week. The maximum weekly dose is 225 IU/kg. After the hemoglobin level returns to normal, the maintenance dose is calculated individually. On average, hemoglobin rises in 2 to 3 weeks.
Eprex Introduced s / c or / in. Depending on the level of hemoglobin, the dose is calculated individually. A solution of the drug of the required concentration is selected. Preferably subcutaneous injection in a volume of not more than 1 ml in one place. When administered intravenously, the drug should not be mixed with other drugs.

If necessary, patients are given parallel preparations of iron, folic acid or vitamin B12. This is indicated by special analyses. In general, when the hemoglobin level drops below 120 g / l in patients with diabetes, hospitalization is indicated for continuous monitoring of blood sugar levels. If the sugar level rises frequently, and there are changes in the urine tests that indicate diabetic nephropathy, prophylactic treatment with erythropoietin in small doses can be started without waiting for a strong decrease in hemoglobin. In any case, self-medication is unacceptable, as this threatens a serious danger to the patient's life.

How to increase hemoglobin in children?

A decrease in hemoglobin levels in children is most often caused by malnutrition. This is due to the fact that a growing body requires more nutrients. Many substances necessary for the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the red bone marrow are also consumed during cell division. This explains the increased need of the child's body for many vitamins and trace elements. Most often, doctors recommend the simplest and most affordable method of treatment - dietary modification with a focus on foods rich in iron, folic acid, vitamin B12. In this case, the calculation of the needs of a growing organism is done depending on the age of the child.

The body's need for essential nutrients at different ages

Age group Daily intake of iron ( mg) Daily intake of vitamin B12 ( mcg) Daily intake of folic acid mcg)
Up to six months 0,3 – 0,4 0,4 – 0,5 50
6 – 12 months 10 - 12 0,5 – 0,6 50
1 – 3 years 6 - 8 0,9 – 1,0 70
4 – 8 years 9 - 11 1,2 – 1,5 100 - 150
9 – 13 years old
(boys)
8 - 9 1,8 150 - 200
9 – 13 years old
(girls)
9 - 10 1,8 150 - 200
14 – 18 years old
(young men)
10 - 12 2,4 200
14 – 18 years old
(girls)
14 - 16 2,4 200

They try to comply with these norms not only when calculating the diet of children with anemia, but also for the nutrition of healthy children with a normal level of hemoglobin. In this case, they will be the main method of preventing anemia. The most valuable sources of the above substances are liver, red meat ( beef, rabbit), seafood. Folic acid is found in large quantities in nuts, leafy vegetables, bran, and cereals. Directly in the prevention of iron deficiency anemia, pomegranate fruits and juice from this plant can help ( preferably freshly squeezed).

With a decrease in the level of hemoglobin, you should definitely see a doctor to determine the cause of anemia and prescribe treatment. As a rule, a significant decrease in hemoglobin cannot be compensated by a diet rich in certain substances alone. It also requires additional use of special drugs that will make up for their deficiency in the body. To understand if a child has anemia, you need to know how hemoglobin levels change with age.

Age-related changes in the level of hemoglobin and erythrocytes


Age group Limits of normal hemoglobin ( g/l) Limits of the norm of erythrocytes ( 10 12 /l)
Up to 3 days 145 – 225 4,0 – 6,6
3 – 7 days 135 – 215 3,9 – 6,3
14 - 31 days 125 – 205 3,6 – 6,2
1 – 2 months 100 – 180 3,0 – 5,4
2 – 3 months 90 – 140 2,7 – 4,9
3 – 6 months 95 – 135 3,1 – 4,5
6 months - 2 years 100 – 145 3,4 – 5,2
3 – 12 years old 110 - 150 3,5 – 5,0
13 - 16 years old 115 - 155 3,5 – 5,5
17 - 19 years old 120 - 160 3,5 – 5,6

In the listed norms, it should be borne in mind that small individual deviations from the norm are possible. Also, starting from the age of 12-13, boys have a hemoglobin level ( both borders) is on average 10-15 g/l higher than in girls, and the level of erythrocytes is 0.5x10 12 /l. The table shows averaged data for all ages, without division by gender.

If the hemoglobin level is lower than the lower limit for the specified age, then treatment requires determining the cause of the disease. In case of deficiency of any substances in the diet, they are administered in the form of medicines. For each of the causes of anemia, their own groups of drugs are prescribed.

Treatment of the main causes of low hemoglobin

Type of anemia Name of the drug Recommended dose
folate deficiency anemia Folic acid From 0.1 mg / day for newborns, from 0.3 mg / day for children 1-4 years old, from 0.4 mg / day for children over 4 years old.

The exact dosage depends on the level of hemoglobin, folic acid reserves in the body and the child's own weight.

B12 deficiency anemia cyanocobalamin 30 - 100 mcg 2 - 3 times a week in the form of subcutaneous or intramuscular injections.

In children of early childhood or with anemia in premature newborns - 30 mcg / day for 2 weeks.

Iron-deficiency anemia Sorbifer Durules Contraindicated in children under 12 years of age.

Adolescents 12 - 18 years old - 1 - 2 tablets 2 times a day.

The course of treatment is 2 - 4 months.

Maltofer It is prescribed intramuscularly for children older than 4 months, depending on body weight.

Children up to 5 kg - 0.5 ml; 5 - 10 kg - 1 ml; 10 - 45 kg - 2 ml; more than 45 kg - up to 4 ml / day.

Ferlatum Produced in the form of vials with a solution for oral administration.

Children: 1.5 ml/kg/day in 2 divided doses.

Ferronal Produced in the form of syrup.

Children under one year - 1 teaspoon / day after meals.

Children older than one year - 1 tablet 1 - 3 times a day.


In each case, a more accurate calculation of the required dose can be made by the attending physician after special studies. Currently, there are tests that can determine not only the level of certain substances in the blood, but also to assess their reserves or the degree of deficiency. This will help you choose the right dose more accurately.

It should be remembered that low hemoglobin levels are not always associated with malnutrition. Sometimes anemia is a consequence or complication of other diseases ( worm infestations, chronic infections, etc.). In newborns, they may be due to a congenital lack of enzymes. Since in this case the diagnosis is made for the first time in life, one cannot neglect such a symptom as a decrease in hemoglobin levels. It is necessary to consult a specialist as soon as possible and exclude more serious diseases, even if the symptoms of anemia itself have not yet appeared, and nothing bothers the child. This can prevent serious complications in the future.

How to increase hemoglobin in a nursing mother?

Anemia is one of the common problems in breastfeeding mothers. This is due to the fact that after pregnancy, the body is often depleted of such substances as iron, folic acid and vitamin B12. They are essential for normal erythrocyte synthesis ( red blood cells) and hemoglobin. In addition, during childbirth, a woman loses a certain amount of blood. In case of any complications, bleeding may recur. This creates conditions for the development of anemia. Directly during the feeding period, part of the nutrients also goes to the formation of milk.

In this regard, all lactating women are advised to adhere to a special diet for preventive purposes. This also applies to those who do not suffer from low hemoglobin. You should focus on the increased needs of the body for nutrients. If hemoglobin, according to the results of the tests, is at a normal level, then prophylaxis can only be carried out with a special diet, without resorting to additional drugs or dietary supplements.

The body's need for various nutrients

Substance necessary for the prevention of anemia Daily allowance for a woman Daily allowance for a pregnant woman Daily allowance during breastfeeding
Iron 18 mg 20 - 33 mg 20 - 25 mg
Vitamin B12 2.4 mcg 2.6 mcg 2.8 mcg
Folic acid 200 mcg 300 mcg 260 mcg

When calculating the diet, you need to focus on the fact that only 10-30% of the iron supplied with food is absorbed in the intestines. If a woman has chronic diseases of the digestive tract ( gastrointestinal tract), then this percentage decreases even more. Vitamin B12 and folic acid are absorbed similarly.

If a decrease in hemoglobin is found in a nursing woman, the doses should be increased even more. It is believed that their replenishment with food is almost impossible, since this exceeds the absorption capacity of the intestinal mucosa. Therefore, additional drugs are prescribed to treat anemia during feeding. They contain iron and other substances in a form available to the body, which makes it easier to absorb. In acute or chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract ( gastritis, gastric ulcer, colitis, etc.) it is possible to introduce these substances in the form of injections. Then they enter directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the intestinal mucosa. Similar treatment tactics are recommended for other chronic inflammatory diseases ( dermatitis, psoriasis, rheumatism, etc.). In this case, the problem is that in addition to the formation of milk and hemoglobin, the body is forced to repair damaged tissues, which also consumes nutrients. The rate of their consumption is increasing even more.

Based on the foregoing, it can be concluded that the final therapeutic dose can only be calculated by the attending physician, who is familiar with the patient's medical history. Before prescribing treatment, special laboratory tests should be carried out, which will show exactly which substance is lacking in the body.

To replenish iron stores in a nursing woman, the following drugs can be used:

  • Tardyferon. Usually prescribed 1 - 2 tablets per day, depending on how low the hemoglobin level is. The course of treatment lasts at least 3 months.
  • Aktiferrin. 1 capsule 1-2 times a day until hemoglobin level normalizes.
  • Sorbifer. The prophylactic dose during lactation is 1 tablet per day, and the therapeutic ( in the presence of anemia) - 2 tablets.
There are many other analogues of these drugs. A single rule of application for all is that they need to be washed down with plenty of water ( 0.5 - 1 cup). You can also drink fruit juices, but in no case, not tea or coffee. When taking antibiotics at the same time, it is worth checking the dose with your doctor, as some antibiotics impair iron absorption. Overdose should also be avoided, as this will affect the mother's health and milk supply. With low hemoglobin against the background of iron deficiency, these drugs are prescribed necessarily.

If the cause of low hemoglobin is a deficiency of vitamin B12 or folic acid, appropriate drugs are prescribed in the form of tablets or injections. The preferred form of administration and dose is determined by the attending physician, depending on the specific diagnosis.

Regardless of the course of drug treatment, foods rich in the above substances should be included in the diet. This will enhance the healing effect and speed up recovery. In food, these substances are contained in a slightly different form, and therefore complement the treatment.

With low hemoglobin in nursing mothers, the following foods should be preferred:

  • Chicken and beef liver. They are a kind of depot in the body of animals, where iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 are stored. Preference should be given to boiled liver, not fried.
  • Chicken meat and beef. They also contain large amounts of iron and vitamin B12. Pork in this case is not prohibited ( it is also rich in these substances), but you should still eat lean meats rather. Excess animal fats can affect the taste of milk, and the child will eat less.
  • Seafood. Rich in iron and other trace elements. Preference is given to low-fat varieties of fish. The exceptions are crustaceans and mackerel, as they can provoke allergies. They are excluded from the diet.
  • Vegetables and fruits. From vegetables and fruits, the body can get a small amount of folic acid and iron. Citrus fruits should be avoided it increases the risk of allergies) and plants that cause increased gas formation ( beans, pears, etc.).
  • Bread with bran. If, when eating such bread, the mother and child do not experience flatulence ( increased gas formation), then it is preferred over white and black bread. Bran contains a significant amount of vitamins that stimulate the bone marrow.
It should be borne in mind that all of the above methods help to cope with anemia caused by a lack of any substances in the diet. However, hemoglobin can also be lowered against the background of other, more serious diseases. Therefore, treatment is prescribed by a doctor after a thorough examination of the patient. In some cases, the course of treatment will require the use of drugs that are not recommended during lactation. Then breastfeeding will need to be stopped to improve the health of the mother, and the baby is transferred to infant formula.

Does hematogen increase hemoglobin?

Unlike other foods, hematogen contains processed hemoglobin derived from the blood of cattle. Of course, during the preparation process, the blood is pre-treated and divided into its constituent parts. This is done to increase the biological value of the product and prevent the transmission of any infections. To improve the taste, sugar, honey and other ingredients are added to the final product ( the exact composition is determined by the manufacturer).

From a medical point of view, hematogen is a stimulant of hematopoiesis ( hematopoiesis), since its use enhances metabolic processes in the red bone marrow and increases the production of blood cells. Hemoglobin that enters the body is not absorbed directly in the intestine. Like any other food, it is exposed to digestive enzymes and broken down into its constituent parts ( carbohydrates into monosaccharides, fats into fatty acids, proteins into amino acids). All these components are individually absorbed into the blood, transformed in the liver and enter the red bone marrow, where they are used for the synthesis of hemoglobin and red blood cells.

The therapeutic effect of hematogen in anemia is due to the high content of the following substances:

  • Squirrels. All proteins are made up of specific amino acids. In bovine erythrocytes, from which hematogen is made, the amino acid composition of proteins is very close to that of a human. Due to this, protein components are easily digested and absorbed. 100 g of hematogen contains about 6 g of animal proteins.
  • Fats. Animal fats contained in the hematogen, as well as proteins, are very similar in chemical composition to fats in the human body. Because of this, they are of great nutritional value overall. The fat content in the hematogen is approximately 3 g per 100 g of the product. However, fats do not play a direct role in stimulating the work of the bone marrow.
  • Carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the main source of energy in the human body. Their share in the hematogen is approximately 75% by weight. Like fats, they do not take part in the synthesis of hemoglobin.
  • Iron. This microelement is the most important part of the hematogen. Its content can vary widely, but always remains higher than in any other food. Such a high value is due to the fact that hemoglobin itself contains a large amount of iron. And since the main component in the manufacture of hematogen is bovine erythrocytes, the proportion of iron in it is very high.
  • Other vitamins and trace elements. The hematogen also contains a number of fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins that stimulate the bone marrow. Compared to other products, the content of minerals and other trace elements is increased. In this case, it is difficult to indicate their exact concentration, since it varies greatly depending on which flavors were used in the preparation.
Thus, hematogen is a very valuable and effective tool for combating iron deficiency anemia. It also helps to restore the normal composition of the blood after bleeding, after severe infectious diseases, or for donors who often donate blood. In these cases, the problem lies precisely in the insufficient rate of production of hemoglobin and red blood cells, and the hematogen spurs this process.

However, with the independent use of hematogen, one should be careful. The fact is that anemia can be caused not only by iron deficiency, but also by a number of congenital problems or diseases of a different nature. Then the excess iron supplied with the hematogen will not benefit the body. On the contrary, side effects such as nausea or diarrhea may occur.

Based on this, the ideal option for low hemoglobin is the delivery of specific tests. This will determine if there is a deficiency in the body of iron or some other substance that can be replenished by the use of hematogen. The results of the tests should be evaluated by the attending physician ( preferably a hematologist), which will give a final conclusion about the benefits of hematogen for a particular patient. People who do not suffer from anemia, the periodic use of hematogen is not prohibited. On the contrary, it will be regarded as the prevention of low hemoglobin levels. But do not focus only on the use of hematogen. A number of substances that also play an important role in hematopoiesis are found in fresh vegetables and fruits, seafood, and meat. Well, alcohol, for example, on the contrary, inhibits the production of red blood cells. Therefore, the hematogen in anemia is undoubtedly useful, but rather as a component of a balanced diet.

Does pomegranate increase hemoglobin levels?

Pomegranate is one of the most common hemoglobin boosters at home. Contrary to popular belief, this plant does not contain hemoglobin. This protein is exclusively of animal origin and is synthesized in the red bone marrow. However, pomegranate still brings some benefit in anemia. This is due to the high content in its fruits of valuable substances that stimulate hematopoiesis ( hematopoiesis). However, not all anemias can be cured by simply eating pomegranate. From a medical point of view, this is just a valuable food product that can be used to prevent a decrease in hemoglobin or as part of a diet for anemia. However, in no case should it be treated as the main means for combating the disease.

The fact is that pomegranate contains only a part of the necessary for hematopoiesis ( hematopoiesis) minerals and vitamins. For example, it does not contain vitamin B12, which can be found mainly in animal products. Therefore, in patients with B12-deficiency anemia, its use will not help raise hemoglobin.

Nutritional value of pomegranate fruit

Nutrients, vitamins and trace elements The content in pomegranate fruits ( per 100 g) daily requirement of the body
Squirrels 0.6 - 0.8 g 30 - 55 g
(plant origin)
Fats 0.5 - 0.7 g 60 - 120 g
(depending on gender, occupation)
Carbohydrates 14.3 - 14.7 g 250 - 550 g
Vitamin PP 0.4 mg 20 mg
(25 during pregnancy and lactation)
Vitamin C 3.8 - 4.0 mg 75 - 90 mg
Vitamin B1 0.04 mg 1.0 - 1.2 mg
Vitamin B2 0.015 mg 1.8 - 2.2 mg
Vitamin B6 0.4 - 0.6 mg 2.0 - 2.2 mg
Vitamin B9
(folic acid)
17 - 20 mcg 200 - 300 mcg
Iron 1 mg in pulp and 0.05 mg per 1 g of peel 15 - 18 mg
Potassium 150 mg 2 - 3 g
Calcium 10 mg 1 - 1.2 g
Magnesium 2 mg 300 - 420 mg

Vegetable proteins, folic acid and iron are of primary importance for hematopoiesis. However, as you can see from the table, even eating a few pomegranates a day or drinking a liter of pomegranate juice can not get the required dose of all the nutrients. The problem is that the nutritious pulp, which is usually eaten and used for juice production, is only 55 - 65% of the weight of the fruit. In addition, the table shows the consumption rate for healthy people. Patients already suffering from anemia require higher doses of these substances.

Thus, pomegranate may help raise hemoglobin only in a certain group of patients with low hemoglobin. First of all, these are people with iron deficiency anemia, whose hemoglobin level is not lower than 100 g / l. In this case, the symptoms of the disease are usually mild, and sometimes absent altogether. Iron deficiency in the body is considered moderate and can be corrected through diet. True, such non-drug treatment will last at least several months until the hemoglobin level stabilizes. Pomegranates and pomegranate juice in this case will be only part of the diet. In addition to them, you should also eat red meat, fish, nuts and other foods rich in various vitamins and minerals. Similarly, hemoglobin levels can be raised after bleeding injuries, heavy periods, or other episodes of blood loss. But if the hemoglobin level drops below 100 g/l, it is still necessary to consult a doctor and supplement the diet with a special course of treatment.

Pomegranates and pomegranate juice will not help restore hemoglobin in the following cases:

  • anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency- since this substance is almost not contained in pomegranates;
  • anemia due to protein deficiency- since the pomegranate does not contain protein in sufficient quantities;
  • oncological diseases of the hematopoietic system- since they affect the tissues themselves, which normally produce red blood cells and hemoglobin;
  • birth defects of enzymes- since the process of hemoglobin synthesis in the red bone marrow is disrupted;
  • anemia after surgery on the gastrointestinal tract (gastrointestinal tract) - since the absorption of nutrients in the intestine will be impaired;
  • anemia due to chronic diseases- in this case, grenades raise hemoglobin, but without specific treatment of the underlying disease, this measure will be temporary.
Thus, pomegranates and pomegranate juice are undoubtedly a very useful product that stimulates the processes of hematopoiesis in the body and helps to increase the level of hemoglobin. However, only this method of treatment is not universal. With anemia of non-food origin associated with other diseases and disorders in the body, pomegranate juice will not help. With a decrease in the level of hemoglobin, you should first of all consult a doctor to determine the cause of the disease. Only after that it will become clear how useful a diet with pomegranates and pomegranate juice will be in this particular case.

How to quickly increase the level of hemoglobin in the blood? Products that increase hemoglobin

It is possible to determine changes in its composition in a timely manner, make a diagnosis in a timely manner and begin correcting violations. This fully applies to oncological diseases. An important indicator for the diagnosis of cancer is hemoglobin, this indicator indicates the course of the disease and helps to assess the effectiveness of the disease treatment.

Hemoglobin is a special protein in red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen to all tissues from the lungs, as well as carbon dioxide in the opposite direction.

How to diagnose diseases with the help of hemoglobin level?

If the hemoglobin level falls below 90-100 g/l, dizziness, accelerated fatigue, brittle hair, pale skin and bruising begin to be felt even after a slight impact.

If the hemoglobin level continues to decrease further, there is chest pain, shortness of breath, and an increase in heart rate. These are manifestations of respiratory and heart failure, impaired immunity, and disorders in the functioning of the nervous system, which can additionally be observed in the form of apathy or irritability.

To confirm the fact of damage to the bone marrow, a trepanobiopsy should be performed to select material and conduct a biological study.

How to normalize the level of hemoglobin?

Hemoglobin in cancer can be increased both by medication and by adjusting the diet.

In medicine, hemoglobin is increased, for example, by transfusion of red blood cells, that is, by introducing "ready" hemoglobin into the circulatory system. For the same purpose, erythropoietin is also administered, which enhances the production of hemoglobin and erythrocytes, stimulating the bone marrow.

Tablets and solutions containing iron preparations are also used.

To maintain the required level of hemoglobin, cancer patients also need to eat right. Before the second stage of the disease, rational nutrition can have a decisive impact on the course of the disease, but in the second or fourth stage, medical methods are no longer enough.

Particular attention should be paid to foods that are rich in iron. These include, for example, corn, liver, spinach, peas, peanuts, as well as wheat oatmeal, buckwheat and barley porridge. There should be a lot of foods containing vitamins C and B12, in particular, greens, black currants, red sweet peppers, decoctions, rosehip infusions, apple-carrot and pomegranate juices, dried fruit compotes. Such fortified drinks should be drunk up to two liters a day. Get used to eating sprouted wheat with a sprout length of two millimeters. It is crushed and mixed with dried fruits, nuts, honey, and consumed for breakfast.

Every day, up to thirty grams of iron should enter the human body with food, and if the hemoglobin level is too low, then this amount of iron will need to be increased. A lot of iron in meat, beef tongue, veal, fish and seafood.

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