Causes and Ways to Overcome Megaloblastic Anemia

Masmaol.com - When red blood cells have an abnormal structure, the distribution of oxygen throughout the body will be disrupted. Symptoms of anemia can be recognized by complaints of feeling tired, pale, dizzy, muscle aches, and shortness of breath.

Common Causes of Megaloblastic Anemia

There are two common conditions that cause megaloblastic anemia, namely deficiency of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) and vitamin B9 (folic acid). Both of these vitamins are essential components for producing healthy red blood cells.

Cobalamin deficiency or deficiency

Cobalamin or vitamin B12 is a nutrient that is found in meat, fish, eggs and milk. Poor diet can be a cause of deficiency of this vitamin, making it more at risk for megaloblastic anemia.

Some medications can also reduce the amount of cobalamin in the body. One is a proton pump inhibitors (proton pump inhibitors) which are used to limit stomach acid production.

Lack of intake of folic acid

Folic acid (vitamin B9) is found in several foods, including beef liver, citrus fruits (oranges and lemons), and green vegetables, such as spinach and broccoli. A diet that is low in folate can put you at greater risk of developing megaloblastic anemia.

In addition, folic acid deficiency is also possible when the body needs more folate. These conditions include pregnancy, breastfeeding, suffering from cancer or sickle cell anemia, undergoing dialysis, and babies born prematurely.

Cobalamin and folic acid deficiencies can also occur when the process of absorption of vitamins is disrupted. For example due to autoimmune conditions and celiac disease, a history of surgery on the intestine, or the presence of diseases of the intestine, such as Crohn's disease and gastrointestinal infections. Without proper treatment, these conditions can develop into megaloblastic anemia.

How to Overcome Megaloblastic Anemia

To diagnose megaloblastic anemia and determine the cause, the doctor will do a complete blood count. After that, the doctor will provide the treatment needed, according to the cause.

In general, the doctor will provide treatment to treat a deficiency of vitamin B12 or folic acid. Treatment can be in the form of giving multivitamin supplements, either through oral medication or injections. In addition, sufferers are also advised to increase their intake of foods rich in vitamin B12 and folic acid.

To monitor the success of treatment, blood tests will be carried out again 10-14 days after starting treatment. If treatment is successful, people with megaloblastic anemia do not need further monitoring, unless symptoms reappear.

Conclusion

Megaloblastic anemia should not be underestimated and treated immediately. If you experience symptoms of megaloblastic anemia as mentioned above, immediately consult a doctor to get the right treatment.

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