Problems with Dialysis - Anemia
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Anemia is weak or low blood. In dialysis patients, the common causes of weak blood are:
Not enough red blood cells. Healthy kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin. This hormone helps the bone marrow make more red blood cells. For dialysis patients, the kidneys no longer make as much of this hormone.
Not enough iron. Although you may be eating good amounts of iron, your system may not absorb enough of it. Red blood cells don't live as long due to the toxins in your blood. Some blood is lost with every dialysis treatment.
Some signs of anemia in dialysis patients are tiredness, paleness, decreased ability to exercise and a feeling of coldness. If anemia becomes severe, you may experience shortness of breath, become easily tired, or have chest pains (angina).
To help prevent anemia, you must eat a balanced diet. Your doctor may prescribe a vitamin-mineral supplement that includes iron and folic acid to help keep your blood as strong as possible.
Your doctor may prescribe Epogen (EPO), a synthetic erythropoietin. This is a medication that can correct anemia by raising red blood cell levels. Before EPO was approved in 1989, blood transfusions were often used to treat anemia. For patients who do not respond to EPO or whose anemia is severe, a blood transfusion still may be required. It is very important for most people to take iron when on EPO, because iron is necessary for the EPO to work. You may be given iron as a pill, or in your machine during your dialysis treatment. Many patients on EPO say they feel more energetic, less cold and fatigued, and they may note an increase in appetite. Because of this improved appetite, you may also have an increase in potassium and blood pressure. Ask your doctor about the advantages and disadvantages of EPO for you.
To learn more about anemia and dialysis:
Anemia and Kidney Disease: What You Should Know
http://www.aakp.org/aakp-library/anemia-kidney-disease/Anemia in Kidney Disease and Dialysis
http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/anemia/index.htmEPO: Treating Anemia in Chronic Renal Failure
http://www.kidney.org/atoz/atozItem.cfm?id=60
Last updated on: February 22, 2008