The symptoms of mild, treatable anemias, such as iron deficiency anemia, respond quickly to treatment and improve in just a few days. The symptoms of chronic anemias, such as sickle cell anemia, come and go. Anemia that occurs with a chronic disease usually gets better or worse as the disease gets better or worse. Follow your health care provider's advice for treating your anemia and any underlying cause. If your anemia is caused by a lack in your diet, eating foods rich in the missing nutrient will help prevent a recurrence.
Dehydration can trigger a sickle cell crisis.
Genetic counseling is important for families with inherited anemias. Developed by iMcKesson Clinical Reference Products Published by iMcKesson Clinical Reference Products. All rights reserved.