Symptoms of Anemia in Diabetics

Diabetes affects millions of people in the Unites States and of those millions, up to 25 percent develop anemia. The patient who has had diabetes for a long period of time, often suffers from diabetic nephropathy, a condition affecting the kidneys, and diabetic neuropathy, a condition affecting the nerves. Each of these conditions increases the development of anemia in the diabetic patient.

Symptoms of Anemia in Diabetics:

• The diabetic suffering from anemia may experience the following symptoms:

  • Weak and easily tired
  • Trouble carrying out daily routines
  • Pale skin
  • Chest pain
  • Irritability
  • Coldness or numbness in the hands and/or feet
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Shortness of breath when active
  • Headache

  These symptoms may point to anemia in the diabetic, and it is important to schedule and discuss your symptoms with your physician.

Causes of Anemia in the Diabetic Patient

• Diabetes weakens the system and as a result can cause anemia with various conditions such as:
  • When diabetes has affected the kidneys, proper production of erythropoietin may not occur. Erythropoietin is a hormone that is responsible for controlling the production of the red blood cells. With the lack of oxygen carried by the red blood cells, anemia may result.
  • Diabetic neuropathy may cause anemia as the nerves are affected, and the body is unable to increase the making of erythropoietin.
  • Nutritional deficiencies may cause anemia.
  • Anemia may result from medications taken for related conditions.

Anemia Left Untreated in Diabetics

• For the diabetic patient who has anemia and has not received treatment, there is an increased risk of onset of heart disease or a stroke or the onset of diabetic eye disease. Patients suffering from diabetes and anemia, have an increased risk of dying earlier than the patient who just has diabetes. Anemia can be treated in the diabetic, increasing the patient's energy level, increasing the amount of activity and improving his quality and wellness of life.

Treatments for Anemia in the Diabetic

• Treatments will vary depending on what is causing the anemia. Vitamin or iron supplements might be administered, or treatment with erythopoiesis-stimulating agents (drugs that stimulate the production of red blood cells) is an option.

Preventative Steps to Help Reduce the Chances of Anemia:

• Steps to follow to reduce the risk of anemia include:
  • Controlling blood-sugar levels
  • Controlling blood pressure
  • Eating recommended amounts of iron
  • Having plenty of intake of Vitamin C
  • Avoiding coffee
  The diabetic should be eating a nutritious iron-rich diet.