Final answer:
Anemic patients usually have a decrease in red blood cells or hemoglobin. Anemic hypoxia can be caused by excessive bleeding, inherited disorders, nutritional deficiencies (such as iron, folate, or B12), or diseases affecting red blood cell production like chronic kidney disease and certain chronic inflammatory conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Anemic patients typically have a decrease in the number of red blood cells (RBCs) or the amount of hemoglobin within those cells. This results in a reduced capacity of the blood to carry oxygen, leading to symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, and shortness of breath during activity.
Typical Causes of Anemic Hypoxia
Anemic hypoxia occurs when the blood lacks sufficient hemoglobin to transport oxygen to body tissues. Causes of anemia include:
- Excessive bleeding, which can either be rapid, as from a wound, or slow, as from a gastrointestinal ulcer or menstruation.
- Inherited disorders such as sickle cell hemoglobin.
- Nutritional deficiencies, including iron, folate, or vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Disease processes, like chronic kidney disease, hypothyroidism, certain cancers, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis, which can lead to decreased RBC production or increased destruction.
Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common type, where the body lacks enough iron to synthesize sufficient hemoglobin. This is particularly common among teens, children, vegans, vegetarians, and individuals who are unable to properly absorb or transport iron due to underlying health conditions.