DEFINITION

What Is Aplastic Anemia?

Aplastic Anemia is a serious Blood disorder. In Aplastic Anemia, the bone marrow does not produce blood cells. The spinal cord is the soft tissue inside the bones, where your blood cells are formed. Blood cells are made of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. When you have aplastic anemia, your spinal cord can't make blood cells, leading to a high risk of infection, uncontrolled bleeding, and serious heart problems.

How Common Is Aplastic Anemia?

Aplastic anemia is rare but is a serious blood disorder that can occur at any age. This disease can occur suddenly or slowly. If you experience symptoms and signs, it is very important to get the right medical treatment.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Aplastic Anemia?

Some of the symptoms and signs of aplastic anemia are:

• Weakness
• Chest pain
• Dizzy
• Pale skin
• Congested
• Bruises of unknown cause
• Nosebleeds or bleeding gums
• Prolonged bleeding

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

When Should I See A Doctor?

You should contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Experiencing persistent and worsening symptoms
• Chest pain
• Congested
• Weak

If you have the above signs or symptoms or any other questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition. 

REASONS

What Causes Aplastic Anemia?

The main cause of aplastic anemia is spinal cord damage. There are many factors that can cause temporary or permanent spinal cord damage. These factors are:

• Radiation And Chemotherapy: These therapies help kill cancer cells but they can also kill healthy cells, including the bone marrow. Aplastic anemia is a side effect that usually occurs temporarily and can recover after therapy
• Exposure To Toxic Chemicals: Toxic chemicals such as benzene (an ingredient commonly found in gasoline) and insect repellent (DDT)
• Drug Induction: There are several rheumatoid arthritis drugs and antibiotics that can cause aplastic anemia. Discuss with your doctor and pharmacist for more information
• Viral Infections: There are several viral infections that can affect the spinal cord. These infections include hepatitis, HIV, Epstein-Barr and cytomegalovirus
• Autoimmune Disorders: Autoimmune diseases can attack your healthy cells, including the spinal cord.

RISK FACTORS

What Increases My Risk For Aplastic Anemia?

There are many risk factors for aplastic anemia, including:

• Exposure to high doses of radiation or chemicals, including cancer therapy
• Excessive use of chloramphenicol and gold compounds to treat bacterial infections and rheumatoid arthritis
• Blood disorders, autoimmune diseases, and severe infections

In rare cases, pregnancy can cause aplastic anemia due to autoimmune problems

TREATMENT

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What Are My Treatment Options For Aplastic Anemia?

Therapy for aplastic anemia aims to reduce symptoms, prevent complications, and improve quality of life. Treatment options may include:

• Blood Transfusions: This therapy will help maintain blood cell counts within normal ranges. Blood transfusions are usually given intravenously (IV) with strict matching of donor and recipient blood.
• Bone Marrow Transplant: A bone marrow and blood transplant replaces damaged stem cells with healthy cells from a donor. This therapy is the best therapy for children and young adults with severe aplastic anemia and who are otherwise healthy. This therapy has the potential to cure aplastic anemia
• Drug Therapy: Your doctor may prescribe medications that stimulate your spinal cord, suppress your immune system, and/or prevent and treat infections

What Are The Usual Tests For Aplastic Anemia?

Doctors can make a proper diagnosis by performing the following tests:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Blood tests including complete blood count
• A bone marrow biopsy, which is usually done by a blood specialist

HOME REMEDIES

What Are Some Lifestyle Changes Or Home Remedies That Can Be Done To Treat Aplastic Anemia?

Here are lifestyle and home remedies that can help you deal with aplastic anemia:

• Take the medicine that the doctor has prescribed
• Perform routine laboratory examinations according to your doctor's recommendations
• Enough rest
• Avoid infection by washing your hands frequently and processing your food well;
• Avoid physical contact sports to avoid bruising and internal bleeding

If you have any questions, consult a doctor for the best solution for your problem.