G6PD Anemia
G6PD anemia is a disorder in which the red blood cells are destroyed faster than the bone marrow can produce them. It is occurs due to the lack of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase enzyme that is normally found in the blood. Another name for the disease is hemolytic anemia. The red blood cells carry the oxygen molecules through the body, and if they are destroyed, severe fatigue and other health problems can occur.
Some of the symptoms of G6DP anemia are lack of color in the skin, yellowing the eye and skin, dark colored urine, and spleen enlargement, as well as an increased heart rate. These symptoms may resemble the same symptoms of other blood disorders. Some medicines can also cause this type of anemia by inhibiting the proper flow of oxygen molecules in the body.
While it can be caused by outside forces, most cases of G6DP anemia are caused by genetic factors. It is inherited through the genes on the X chromosome. These chromosomes are the structures in our body that contain the codes for the all of our individual traits, such as blood type and eye color. All the human beings have 46 individual chromosomes (or 23 pairs). The last pair determines the gender: i.e. male have one X and one Y chromosome and while females have two X chromosomes. The particular deficiency present in genetic G6PD anemia is carried through the female line to their children.
G6PD anemia can be diagnosed by a simple blood test. In most cases, it is doesn’t cause any serious problems for the individual unless they are exposed to certain foods or medications will cause additional damage to the red blood cells. It can be diagnosed by a doctor based on a thorough work up of your medical history, medications, and sensitivities to certain substances, as well as with some thorough blood work. The treatment for this condition is avoiding certain foods, medications, and some environmental exposures.
Before taking any type of meditation, patients need to consult a doctor. Remember, this disease mainly occurs in males, though females can get it, too. It is a big cause of jaundice in newborns, so if your baby has signs of jaundice, you should have him or her tested for this condition.