Iron Deficiency Anemia

Last week I posted, Pale and Worried. My first thought was to check out WebMD to attempt an initial self diagnosis - you know, because I am a trained physician. Nevertheless, "Greg" posted a comment about a site call Revolution Health. Once I logged onto the site I had a revelation. Perhaps Muddear is pale because of her anemia. (It only took me a week to think of that one.)

After reading the introduction below I have been inspired to contact Dr. Shah to ask that tests be conducted to check Muddear's iron levels.

Introduction Date updated: March 07, 2007
Content provided by MayoClinic.com

Having iron deficiency anemia may cause you to feel tired and often look pale. It's a common type of anemia - a condition in which blood lacks adequate healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen to tissues. Oxygenated blood gives your body energy and your skin a healthy color.

As the name implies, iron deficiency anemia is due to insufficient iron. Your body needs the element iron to make hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells that enables them to carry oxygen.

Iron deficiency anemia is common, especially in women. One in five women and half of all pregnant women are iron deficient. Lack of iron in your diet is one cause of iron deficiency anemia, but there are other causes as well.

You can usually correct iron deficiency anemia with iron supplementation. Sometimes, additional treatments are necessary, especially if you're bleeding internally.

Check out the following link on Revolution Health to read more about the causes and symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia: http://www.revolutionhealth.com/conditions/anemia/iron-deficiency-anemia/iron-deficiency-anemia?section=section_00

Pale and Worried

Perhaps I worry about things that I should not worry about, but unfortunately, I cannot help it. As usual, when I arrived home after work, I stopped by Muddear's room to say "hey!" and chat for a moment before beginning part two of the work day. You know, work at work then work at home. I immediately noticed that Muddear appeared very pale, almost ashen. I asked her if she was feeling okay, to which Muddear responded "yes." At that point, I was at a loss...and a little worried. I wanted to do something to "fix" the situation, but what? Therefore, I gave Muddear an Ensure. Of course, Mike asked me, "Why are you giving your grandmother an Ensure?" To which I responded, "I don't know, it just seems like the right thing to do. Maybe she is experiencing some vitamin or calorie deficiency."

I know you think I am nuts, it just made feel better to be able to do something. I will research WebMD today for potential causes. My last resort will be to contact the doctor if Muddear does not improve. I will keep you posted.