How to Treat Anemia in HIV

Anemia is a common disorder that is caused by a lower than normal red blood count. According to the Mayo Clinic, red blood cells carry oxygen to tissue, which is necessary for energy and maintaining a healthy skin tone. HIV patients are at a higher risk of developing anemia due to the disease itself, and medications to treat the disease that can lower your red blood count. Although not everyone will display symptoms for the condition, some of the symptoms include a lack of energy, weakness, dizziness and fatigue.

Instructions

• 1

  Eat a diet high in iron. If your diet is lacking in iron it may be contributing to your low energy. High amounts of iron can be found in dark, leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale, as well as in meat. According to the "Dietary Guidelines for Americans" your daily diet should consist of five servings of vegetables.

• 2

  Watch your saturated fat consumption. Although meat is a high source of iron it can also be loaded with saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium, which are all unhealthy for your heart. Remove the skin from chicken before eating and only consume extra lean ground beef. Fish is an excellent source of iron, omega-3 fatty acids and protein, all healthy nutrients for your body.

• 3

  Take iron supplements. Iron supplements can be purchased at most drugstores and health stores, and do not require a prescription. It is important to take iron supplements as directed by your physician or according to the package's instructions, as overdosing is possible that causes side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, according to the National Institutes of Health.

• 4

  Use prescribed medication. Your physician may prescribe medication that contains erythropoietin, which treats anemia caused by HIV. Although prescribed medication can help treat anemia through weekly injections, you will need to continue taking iron supplements if you have an iron deficiency, according to "A Woman's Guide to Living with HIV Infection."

• 5

  Consider alternative options. Your doctor may recommend receiving a red blood cell transfusion if your fatigue worsens or your blood count is very low. Red blood cell transfusions help raise your red blood count, and alleviates the symptoms associated with anemia.