Anaemia is defined by World Health Organisation (WHO) as a condition in which the number of red blood cells or their oxygen-carrying capacity is insufficient to meet physiological needs. The most common cause of anemia in Indian children is iron deficiency. Other conditions such as folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin A deficiencies, chronic inflammation, parasitic infections, and inherited disorders can also cause anaemia. Telltale signs of anemia in children are fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and drowsiness. Kids are particularly vulnerable to anemia.
Causes
According to the National Family Health Survey 2019-20, Indian kids are overwhelmingly anemic. Iron deficiency, linked to low nutritional iron consumption is one of the critical causes of childhood anemia in India. Other critical factors include vitamin deficiencies, especially folate, vitamin B12 and A, infections with malaria parasite, hookworm, and hemoglobinopathies. Maternal age, education and hemoglobin level, and family wealth are also some of the determinants of anemia in kids.
Symptoms
There are seven warning signs of anemia in kids. Fatigue or tiredness (asthenia) is difficult to define for children but is a symptom of anemia. Irritability accompanying tiredness is again difficult to identify in kids. Loss of appetite or anorexia is another major symptom. The child should be monitored by parents for a duration of time and then a pediatric should be consulted. If a child is eating dirt or objects (pagophagia), it is another symptom of anemia. Paleness of skin color or jaundice is yet another symptom as it indicates a drop in red blood cell levels. Another symptom is tachycardia characterized by shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Finally, two other symptoms are hair loss and weak nails.
How is it diagnosed?
Hemoglobin and hematocrit is often the first screening test for anemia in children. Complete blood count (CBC) – if hemoglobin or hematocrit is abnormal, a complete blood count may be done. Peripheral smear is done with a smear of blood on a slide that is checked under a microscope. Reticulocyte count. A reticulocyte count measures the amount of newly formed red blood cells in the child’s blood sample. Anemia caused by not enough red blood cells being made results in a low reticulocyte count. Anemia caused by too many red blood cells being lost causes a high reticulocyte count.
Prevention & Treatment
A proper balanced diet is essential for children to help address an iron or vitamin deficiency. Vegetables rich in iron include spinach, carrots, radish, beetroots, tomatoes, potatoes, and green leafy vegetables. Fruits such as bananas, apples, and pomegranates should be given. Iron supplements under medical advice can be given that may prevent your child’s body from destroying red blood cells or help the marrow to make more. In severe cases, a blood transfusion is done.