There are various types of anemia. However, iron deficiency anemia is the most common. It occurs when the body has an insufficient supply of iron. Iron is required for the synthesis of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that is necessary for the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues. While a diet low in iron is typically the precursor for this type of anemia, it may also be caused by chronic blood loss (“Lecture 3,” 2013). A comprehensive assessment of patient symptoms and laboratory studies will assist providers in making a definitive diagnosis of anemia, as well as determine the type of anemia present, thereby enabling the development of an effective treatment plan.
Assessment and Diagnosis
In the case study presented, Ms. A. is most likely suffering from chronic iron deficiency anemia. Ms. A.’s laboratory values support this …show more content…
A. admits to having irregular, heavy menstrual cycles, and she states that her symptoms are worse during times of menses and physical exertion. In the given scenario, this is especially true due to increased elevation, where there is less oxygen available. Decreased blood counts, as evidenced by low hemoglobin, hematocrit, and erythrocyte values, result in a decreased ability to transport needed oxygen to tissues, thereby increasing the body’s demand for oxygen. In Ms. A.’s case, this increased need for oxygen has resulted in tachycardia and an increased respiratory rate, as her body attempted to compensate for impaired oxygenation. This increase in cardiac output, coupled with hyperventilation, is likely causing Ms. A. to feel fatigued, short of breath, and light-headed. To further complicate matters, Ms. A. states that she regularly takes aspirin during menstruation and in the summer months to relieve both menstrual and joint pain. Aspirin is an antiplatelet and can interfere with the body’s ability to clot, which can cause or worsen bleeding (Mayo Clinic, 2015), subsequently worsening her
Assessment and Diagnosis
In the case study presented, Ms. A. is most likely suffering from chronic iron deficiency anemia. Ms. A.’s laboratory values support this …show more content…
A. admits to having irregular, heavy menstrual cycles, and she states that her symptoms are worse during times of menses and physical exertion. In the given scenario, this is especially true due to increased elevation, where there is less oxygen available. Decreased blood counts, as evidenced by low hemoglobin, hematocrit, and erythrocyte values, result in a decreased ability to transport needed oxygen to tissues, thereby increasing the body’s demand for oxygen. In Ms. A.’s case, this increased need for oxygen has resulted in tachycardia and an increased respiratory rate, as her body attempted to compensate for impaired oxygenation. This increase in cardiac output, coupled with hyperventilation, is likely causing Ms. A. to feel fatigued, short of breath, and light-headed. To further complicate matters, Ms. A. states that she regularly takes aspirin during menstruation and in the summer months to relieve both menstrual and joint pain. Aspirin is an antiplatelet and can interfere with the body’s ability to clot, which can cause or worsen bleeding (Mayo Clinic, 2015), subsequently worsening her