Gain of chromosome 21 in hematological malignancies: lessons from studying leukemia in children with Down syndrome
Anemia And Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Anemia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are two significant health issues that often coexist, impacting the quality of life and overall health of affected individuals. Anemia, characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, can exacerbate the symptoms of COPD, a progressive lung disease that causes breathing difficulties. Recent research has focused on understanding the relationship between these two conditions, exploring how anemia may influence the progression of COPD and vice versa.
Recent ResearchRecent studies have provided compelling evidence of a causal relationship between iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and an increased risk of developing COPD. A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study found that IDA significantly raises the risk of COPD, with an odds ratio of 1.15, indicating that individuals with IDA are more likely to develop this lung disease. Conversely, the study found no evidence that COPD increases the risk of IDA, suggesting that addressing IDA could be a potential therapeutic target in COPD management[1].
Another important aspect of the relationship between anemia and COPD is the shift in focus from polycythemia (an increase in red blood cells) to anemia as a more prevalent condition in COPD patients. Factors contributing to anemia in COPD include aging, kidney dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and the use of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors, which are commonly prescribed for comorbidities associated with COPD. These medications have been shown to lower hematocrit values, leading to anemia[2]. This paradigm shift highlights the need for healthcare providers to consider anemia as a significant factor in the management of COPD.
Research has also emphasized the clinical impact of anemia on COPD patients. A systematic review indicated that anemia is associated with increased morbidity, longer hospital stays, and higher mortality rates among COPD patients. Specifically, iron deficiency was noted as a common finding in these patients, correlating with elevated pulmonary artery pressure and exacerbated symptoms[3][4]. Furthermore, a cross-sectional study found that 23% of COPD patients had anemia, which was linked to significantly higher mortality three months post-discharge, underscoring the critical need for monitoring and managing anemia in this population[5].
Technical TermsAnemia: A condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen transport in the body.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A progressive lung disease that causes breathing difficulties due to airflow obstruction and inflammation in the airways.
Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA): A type of anemia caused by insufficient iron, leading to decreased production of hemoglobin.
Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS): A hormone system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance, often targeted by medications in patients with heart and kidney conditions.
11 Reasons For Feeling Cold All The Time
Cold intolerance means you are more sensitive to cold temperatures than others. Reasons for feeling cold may also indicate an underlying condition, such as anemia, hypothyroidism (reduced thyroid function), or poor circulation. You may also get cold so easily if you are dehydrated, do not get enough sleep, and have low body weight.
Anorexia nervosa, which is an eating disorder, often causes cold intolerance. People with anorexia nervosa fear gaining weight. They may engage in extreme weight loss behaviors, like too much diet and exercise. Body weight and muscle loss make people with anorexia nervosa sensitive to cold temperatures. Other anorexia nervosa symptoms include: Depression Dry mouth Dry, blotchy, yellowing skin Fine hair that covers the skin Poor memory Osteoporosis, which is characterized by brittle, weak bones Trouble thinking What To Do Treatments for anorexia nervosa focus on maintaining a healthy body weight. A healthcare provider can help you practice safe eating and exercise habits. Some people with anorexia nervosa may require a hospital or in-patient stay. These treatments can help you develop an eating schedule and reduce physical activity. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or talk therapy, helps encourage a healthy relationship with diet and exercise. Beta-blockers like metoprolol may affect how much blood reaches your hands and feet, which makes them feel cold. These drugs slow down your heart, which improves blood flow and reduces blood pressure. What To Do Consult a healthcare provider to discuss whether you need to switch medications if you suspect beta-blockers make you feel cold. Keep your hands and feet warm in the meantime. You may wear heavy gloves and socks. Peripheral neuropathy damages the nerves in your hands and feet. It's a complication of untreated high blood glucose (sugar). Peripheral neuropathy may cause numbness and pain in the hands and feet. "Since these nerves are also responsible for sending messages to the brain regarding temperature sensation, your hands and feet may feel cold," Margarita Rohr, MD, an internist at NYU Langone Medical Center, told Health. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) may also cause chills. People with diabetes can develop low blood sugar if they take too much insulin or do not eat enough carbohydrates. Low blood sugar can also cause blurry vision, confusion, and weakness. What To Do Peripheral nephropathy develops gradually, so you may not realize you have it. See a healthcare provider if you have been diagnosed with or have symptoms of diabetes like blurry vision, extreme thirst, and frequent urination. Controlling your blood sugar helps avoid peripheral nephropathy if you have diabetes. Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and take diabetes medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Eat 15 grams of carbohydrates, or 4 ounces of juice or 1 tablespoon of honey, if your blood sugar is low. Check your blood sugar level after 15 minutes. Have another serving of carbohydrates if your blood sugar is still low, and repeat until you feel better. Contact a healthcare provider if you have ongoing hypoglycemia symptoms. If you can't warm up, it may be a sign that you need to drink more water. Water, which helps regulate your body temperature, makes up more than two-thirds of your body weight. "If you're adequately hydrated, water will trap heat and release it slowly, keeping your body temperature in a comfortable zone," Maggie Moon, RD, a registered dietitian nutritionist based in Los Angeles, told Health. "With less water, your body is more sensitive to extreme temperatures." Other dehydration symptoms include: Confusion Dark-colored urine Dizziness Dry mouth and skin Sweating and urinating less than normal Tiredness What To Do Replenish lost electrolytes and fluids right away if you are dehydrated. You can drink water or sports drinks to treat mild dehydration symptoms. You may require intravenous (IV) fluids in severe cases. You can prevent dehydration by consuming 91-125 fluid ounces of water daily. You can consume water from foods like fruits and vegetables, eat soup, and drink juice, tea, and water. You may need more water based on your activity level, age, overall health, and weight. Consult a healthcare provider about how much water you need to stay hydrated. Always being cold is a common symptom of hypothyroidism, which means your thyroid secretes low levels of thyroid hormone. Nearly 5% of people in the United States have hypothyroidism. Your metabolism slows without the right thyroid hormone level. Low levels of thyroid hormone prevent you from generating enough heat. Other hypothyroidism symptoms include: Dry hair and skin Hair loss or thinning hair Heavier or more irregular periods than usual Unexplained weight gain What To Do Medications can replace the thyroid hormone that your body does not make. A healthcare provider measures the amount of thyroid hormone in your blood to adjust your dosage. Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common culprits of constantly feeling cold. Iron helps your red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body to produce heat. Low iron can slow thyroid functioning, which leads to hypothyroidism and makes you feel cold. Other iron deficiency anemia symptoms include: Brittle nails Difficulty concentrating Pale skin Shortness of breath What To Do Consult a healthcare provider if you have low iron symptoms. They can check your iron level with a blood test. A healthcare provider may advise you to increase your intake of iron-rich foods like: Baked beans Chicken Chickpeas Dried beans, lentils, and peas Fish Liver Soybeans Turkey Whole-grain bread Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron. Try eating broccoli, strawberries, oranges, or tomatoes with iron-rich foods. You may also take iron supplements to boost your blood levels. A healthcare provider may administer iron through an injection or IV if you cannot take oral supplements. Consult a healthcare provider if you are pregnant. Pregnant people need more iron than usual in their diet. Not getting enough sleep wreaks havoc on your nervous system. This may alter your body systems that regulate body temperature. Research has found that a lack of sleep can adversely impact your metabolism. Having metabolic dysfunction may lead to feeling cold. What To Do Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Try some of the following tips to help get a good night's rest: Avoid caffeine and nicotine during the late afternoon and evening Do not eat large meals, exercise, or drink a lot of liquid too close to bedtime Get plenty of sunlight during the day Limit electronics, lights, and loud noises before bedtime Limit naps, especially during the late afternoon and evening Maintain a cool temperature in your bedroom Stick to a regular sleep schedule Try relaxing activities if you cannot sleep after 20 minutes Unwind by listening to calming music, reading a book, or taking a bath Consult a healthcare provider if you still have trouble sleeping after adjusting your sleep habits. You may have insomnia, sleep apnea, or another sleep disorder. A healthcare provider may perform a sleep study or prescribe medicine to help you sleep. Low body weight can make you feel cold. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines low body weight as a body mass index (BMI) below 18.5. You lack enough body fat to insulate you from cold temperatures if you are underweight. A low BMI may mean you have less fatty tissue, which can cause your body to produce less heat. Having a low body weight may mean you also have low muscle mass. Muscle mass produces heat to help maintain body temperature, said Dr. Rohr. What To Do Talk to a healthcare provider if you are underweight. They can run tests to see what's causing your low body weight. A healthcare provider may suggest you gain weight. Make sure you eat a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fat, and protein. Incorporating weight-bearing exercises into your workout regimen helps build muscle. A circulation problem can keep blood from reaching your extremities. It may be the culprit if your hands and feet feel cold but other body parts feel warm. Raynaud's disease causes the blood vessels in your hands and feet to temporarily narrow when they sense cold. Heart disease and smoking may also cause circulation problems. Heart disease causes your heart to not pump as effectively, and smoking constricts blood vessels, said Dr. Rohr. What To Do A healthcare provider can figure out the cause of your circulation problems and rule out heart disease. Certain medications can keep your blood vessels from narrowing if you have Raynaud's disease. Other home remedies for Raynaud's disease include: Avoid cold temperatures Keep your hands and feet warm in cold environments by wearing heavy gloves or socks Soak your hands in warm water during a flare Peripheral artery disease (PAD) happens if fatty substances build up in your peripheral arteries. These arteries deliver blood from your heart throughout your body. They narrow as a result, which reduces blood flow. A lack of blood flow may decrease your body temperature. People with PAD may notice that one of their legs is colder than the other. Other PAD symptoms include: Bluish, pale skin Erectile dysfunction, typically in men with diabetes Painful, achy leg muscles that may become heavy or numb when climbing stairs or walking Poor leg hair and toenail growth Sores on your lower extremities that do not heal Weak pulse in your feet or legs What To Do A healthcare provider may advise heart-healthy lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery to treat PAD. Eating a balanced diet and regularly exercising help lower the risk of plaque build-up. Medicines that treat PAD include: ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), and other drugs that lower blood pressure Antiplatelet medicines (e.G., aspirin and clopidogrel), which prevent blood clots Statins, which lower plaque build-up A healthcare provider may advise surgery to open your peripheral arteries. Surgery is typically an option if lifestyle changes and medicines fail. Not consuming enough vitamin B12—about 2.4. Micrograms daily for the average adult—can cause anemia and make you feel cold. Other vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms include: Bleeding gums Constipation or diarrhea Fatigue Irritability Loss of appetite Pale skin Shortness of breath, especially during exercise Swollen, red tongue Untreated vitamin B12 deficiency may cause more severe symptoms over time. You may develop imbalance, numb hands or feet, and trouble focusing. What To Do You can boost your vitamin B12 levels by eating foods like: Beef liver Breakfast cereals fortified with vitamin B12 Dairy products (e.G., eggs and milk) Meat Nutritional yeast Poultry Shellfish Vegans and vegetarians are more likely than others to have vitamin B12 deficiency. The nutrient is almost exclusively found in animal products. Ask a healthcare provider whether you need a vitamin B12 supplement if you eat a plant-based diet. They may also advise a monthly shot of vitamin B12. You might need fewer shots as your vitamin B12 level stabilizes. Let a healthcare provider know if you have symptoms of conditions like anemia, anorexia nervosa, hypothyroidism, or Raynaud's disease. They may use several tests to figure out what's causing you to be constantly cold, such as: Complete blood count (CBC): Measures white and red blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin, and the percentage of your blood made up of red blood cells Serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): Examines blood levels of TSH, which signals your thyroid to make thyroid hormone Thyroid hormone levels: Helps determine whether you have hypothyroidism Try wearing warm clothing or turning on the heat to warm up if you are feeling cold. The following tips can also help if you are cold frequently: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, lean proteins, low-fat or non-fat dairy products, vegetables, and whole grains Exercise regularly Get plenty of sleep Stay hydrated Talk to a healthcare provider if you think a medication like beta-blockers is making you cold Consult a healthcare provider if you are frequently sensitive to cold temperatures, especially when others say they are not cold. They will likely ask if you have always been sensitive to cold temperatures or if you suddenly developed cold intolerance. A healthcare provider can also administer tests to diagnose any underlying conditions. There can be several reasons why you constantly feel cold. Consult a healthcare provider if you have eliminated causes like dehydration, lack of sleep, and low body weight. Healthcare providers can help figure out what, exactly, have you feeling chilled and suggest proper treatments.Best Iron Supplement For Anemia: Top Picks For Optimal Absorption
We independently select all products and services. This article was written by a third-party company. If you click through links we provide, The Georgia Straight may earn a commission. Learn more
Anemia is a prevalent health issue that arises when there's an insufficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin circulating in the blood. Symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and difficulty breathing can profoundly affect an individual's life quality. Iron insufficiency, typically triggered by an inadequate diet, blood loss or other contributing factors, is a common origin of this disorder.
Iron supplements are a popular way to treat iron deficiency anemia. However, not all iron supplements are created equal. Some types of iron are better absorbed by the body than others, which means that they are more effective at treating anemia. In this article, we will be discussing the best absorbed iron supplement for anemia.
When choosing an iron supplement, it is essential to pay attention to the type of iron used in the supplement. There are two main types of iron: heme and non-heme. Heme iron is found in animal products and is more easily absorbed by the body. Non-heme iron is found in plant-based foods and is not as easily absorbed. However, non-heme iron supplements can still be effective if taken correctly.
We spent hours researching and testing various iron supplements to identify the one that is best absorbed by the body and most effective at treating anemia. In the next section, we will discuss our top pick and why we believe it is the best choice for those with iron deficiency anemia.
Best Absorbed Iron SupplementsWe understand how challenging it can be to deal with anemia, and we know how important it is to find the right iron supplement to help you combat it. That's why we've done the research and compiled a list of the best absorbed iron supplements on the market. These products have been carefully selected based on their effectiveness, quality, and customer reviews. We hope this list will help you find the right iron supplement to meet your needs and improve your overall health.
MegaFood Blood BuilderIf you're looking for an iron supplement that's gentle on your stomach and effective at increasing your iron levels, then MegaFood Blood Builder is a great option.
Pros
Cons
We've been using MegaFood Blood Builder for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our energy levels and overall health. The gentle iron tablets are easy to swallow and don't cause any stomach discomfort or nausea.
One of the things we love about this supplement is that it's formulated with vitamin C and beet root, which are both known to enhance iron absorption. This means you're getting more bang for your buck and can feel confident that you're actually absorbing the iron you're taking.
Another great feature of MegaFood Blood Builder is that it contains folic acid and vitamin B12, which are important for healthy red blood cell production. This makes it a great choice for women who are pregnant or trying to conceive.
The only downsides we've noticed with this supplement are that it's a bit pricey compared to other iron supplements on the market, and some people may experience constipation as a side effect. Additionally, the unflavored tablets may have a slightly unpleasant aftertaste, but this is a small price to pay for a high-quality iron supplement.
Overall, we highly recommend MegaFood Blood Builder to anyone looking for a gentle, effective iron supplement that's made with high-quality, nourishing ingredients.
Nature Made Iron SupplementWe highly recommend the Nature Made Iron Supplement for those looking for an effective and affordable way to increase their iron levels.
Pros
Cons
We were impressed with the effectiveness of the Nature Made Iron Supplement. After taking one tablet daily with a meal and water, we noticed an increase in our energy levels and a decrease in symptoms of anemia. The tablets are easy to swallow and have no unpleasant taste or aftertaste.
One of the standout features of this supplement is that it is gluten-free and contains no synthetic dyes or artificial flavors, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. Additionally, the fact that it is the #1 Pharmacist Recommended Vitamin and Supplement Brand* gives us confidence in its quality and safety.
However, it is important to note that some users may experience constipation or other digestive issues while taking this supplement. It is also important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking this supplement if you have certain medical conditions or are taking other medications.
Overall, we highly recommend the Nature Made Iron Supplement for those looking for an effective and affordable way to increase their iron levels.
*Based on a survey of pharmacists who recommend branded vitamins and supplements.
Slow Fe 45mg Iron SupplementIf you're looking for an iron supplement that is easy on your stomach, Slow Fe 45mg Iron Supplement is the one for you.
Pros
Cons
We've been using Slow Fe for a while now, and we're impressed with how gentle it is on our stomachs. The controlled release system ensures that the iron is delivered slowly to our bodies, causing fewer digestive side effects. We also appreciate how easy it is to swallow the tablets, making it convenient to take them every day.
However, we do want to note that Slow Fe may cause constipation in some people, so it's important to eat fiber-rich foods while taking the supplement. Although it's less common with Slow Fe than with other iron supplements, some people may still experience nausea or stomach discomfort. Additionally, the tablets are unflavored, which may be unpleasant for some people.
Overall, we recommend Slow Fe 45mg Iron Supplement for anyone looking for an iron supplement that is easy on their stomach. With its controlled release system and easy-to-swallow tablets, it's a convenient way to get the iron you need to combat iron deficiency anemia.
Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid SupplementWe highly recommend Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid Supplement for anyone looking for an effective and natural way to boost their iron levels.
Pros
Cons
Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid Supplement is a high-quality product that contains 10mg of iron in liquid form, along with Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C from rose hip, and herbal extracts. The plant-based extract is gentle on the digestive system and absorbs easily, making it a great option for those with anemia or iron deficiency.
The all-natural fruit juice concentrates enhance the taste with pear, grape, black currant, orange, blackberry, and cherry juice concentrates with a touch of honey. It is free of artificial additives and preservatives, non-GMO, vegetarian, kosher, lactose-free, and alcohol-free, making it a safe and healthy option.
While the taste may not be appealing to everyone, it is tolerable, and the liquid form makes it easy to digest and absorb, making it a great option for those with sensitive stomachs. Some users may experience fatigue initially, but this is a common side effect of iron supplements and should subside with continued use.
Overall, Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid Supplement is a great option for anyone looking for a natural and effective way to boost their iron levels. It is a bit pricey, but the quality and effectiveness of the product make it worth the investment.
Vitron-C Iron SupplementWe highly recommend Vitron-C Iron Supplement for anyone looking for a high potency iron supplement to help fight fatigue caused by low iron levels or iron-deficiency anemia.
Pros
Cons
Vitron-C Iron Supplement has been a game-changer for us in maintaining healthy red blood cells. The use of an iron pill daily may boost energy by helping to fight fatigue in users with low iron levels or iron-deficiency anemia. The carbonyl iron in Vitron-C provides gradual and gentle iron absorption, which helps minimize constipation. The added Vitamin C improves iron absorption and supports a healthy immune system. We appreciate that Vitron-C is dye free, gluten free, and vegan with no artificial colors or flavors, making it an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions.
While the tablets may be large and difficult to swallow for some individuals, we found that taking them with a full glass of water helped. The iron content may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or nausea in some users, but we did not experience any negative side effects. However, we did notice that the supplement may cause constipation in some users.
Overall, we highly recommend Vitron-C Iron Supplement for anyone looking for a high potency iron supplement to help fight fatigue caused by low iron levels or iron-deficiency anemia.
Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid SupplementWe highly recommend the Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid Supplement for anyone looking for an effective and natural way to boost their iron levels.
Pros
Cons
We found that the Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid Supplement was a great way to naturally boost our iron levels without any negative side effects. The liquid form made it easy to digest and absorb, and the all-natural fruit juice concentrates and herbal extracts enhanced the taste. We appreciated that the product was free of artificial additives or preservatives, and was non-GMO, vegetarian, kosher, and lactose-free.
One thing to note is that the large 23 oz bottle may be inconvenient for those who prefer smaller, more portable supplements. Additionally, some users may find the taste too strong or sweet for their liking. As with any supplement, it's important to check with your doctor before use, especially if you have certain medical conditions or are taking certain medications.
Overall, we believe that the Floradix Iron & Herbs Vegetarian Liquid Supplement is a great choice for anyone looking for a natural and effective way to boost their iron levels.
Buying GuideWhen choosing an iron supplement, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you are getting the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for:
Type of IronThe type of iron in the supplement is an important consideration. There are two main forms of iron: heme and non-heme. Heme iron is found in animal-based foods and is more easily absorbed by the body. Non-heme iron is found in plant-based foods and is less easily absorbed. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, you may want to choose a supplement that contains heme iron or a form of non-heme iron that is more easily absorbed, such as ferrous bisglycinate.
DosageThe dosage of iron in the supplement is another important consideration. The recommended daily intake of iron varies depending on age, gender, and other factors. Be sure to choose a supplement that provides the appropriate dosage for your needs. Taking too much iron can be harmful, so it is important to follow the recommended dosage.
FormIron supplements come in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids. Choose a form that is easy for you to take and that you will be able to take consistently. If you have trouble swallowing pills, a liquid or chewable form may be a better option.
Absorption EnhancersSome iron supplements contain absorption enhancers, such as vitamin C or folate, which can help increase the absorption of iron. If you have difficulty absorbing iron, you may want to choose a supplement that contains these enhancers.
Side EffectsIron supplements can cause side effects, such as constipation, nausea, and stomach upset. Choose a supplement that has a lower risk of side effects or that contains ingredients that can help alleviate them.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best iron supplement for your needs and help alleviate the symptoms of anemia.
Frequently Asked Questions What is the most absorbable form of iron supplement?The most absorbable form of iron supplement is heme iron, which is found in animal products such as red meat, poultry, and fish. Non-heme iron, which is found in plant-based foods and iron supplements, is not as easily absorbed by the body.
What is the recommended iron dose for treating anemia?The recommended iron dose for treating anemia varies depending on the severity of the anemia and the individual's age and sex. Generally, a daily dose of 150-200mg of elemental iron is recommended for adults with iron-deficiency anemia.
What are the side effects of iron supplements?Common side effects of iron supplements include constipation, nausea, and stomach pain. Iron supplements can also cause black stools and dark urine. In rare cases, iron supplements can cause more serious side effects such as allergic reactions and iron overload.
What are the best iron supplements for women?Women who are pregnant or menstruating may require additional iron in their diet. The best iron supplements for women include those that contain heme iron, such as ferrous fumarate, as well as those that are formulated with vitamin C to improve iron absorption.
What are the best iron supplements for pregnancy?Pregnant women require additional iron to support the growth and development of their fetus. The best iron supplements for pregnancy include those that are specifically formulated for pregnant women, such as prenatal vitamins that contain iron and folic acid.
What is the best form of iron supplement for iron-deficiency anemia?The best form of iron supplement for iron-deficiency anemia is ferrous sulfate, which is the most commonly prescribed form of iron supplement. Other forms of iron supplements, such as ferrous gluconate and ferrous fumarate, may also be effective.
Comments
Post a Comment