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HomeAnswersPediatricsanemiaMy 12-year-old daughter has been experiencing fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and occasional dizziness for the past week. She is diagnosed with anemia. Please help.

What are the possible causes of anemia?

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Gaurav Gupta

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At December 21, 2023
Reviewed AtDecember 21, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My 12-year-old daughter has been experiencing fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and occasional dizziness for the past week. After conducting relevant diagnostic tests on consulting a doctor, it was confirmed that she was suffering from anemia. What are the common causes of anemia in children, and what are the specific factors that might contribute to anemia? Are there any dietary interventions or supplements that could help improve her iron levels? Based on her medical history and symptoms, are there any other medical conditions that should be considered or ruled out in conjunction with anemia?

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Gaurav Gupta

Hello,

Welcome to iciniq.com.

I can understand your concern. Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia in children worldwide. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Insufficient intake of iron-rich foods.

Poor iron absorption.

Blood loss, such as from heavy menstrual bleeding or parasitic infections.

Other nutritional deficiencies, such as folic acid and vitamin B12 deficiency, can also cause anemia.

Inherited blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia, can also lead to anemia.

Chronic diseases, such as kidney disease, cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease, can also cause anemia.

Infections, such as malaria and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)/AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), can also cause anemia.

Specific factors that might contribute to anemia in your daughter depend on her age and gender, some of these factors include, heavy menstrual bleeding, a vegetarian or vegan diet or poor diet quality, gastrointestinal disorders, a family history of blood disorders, or chronic illness.

I would suggest some dietary interventions and supplements that could help improve your daughter's iron levels including, eating a balanced diet that includes iron-rich foods, such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, and iron-fortified cereals. Pairing iron-rich foods with foods that contain vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and broccoli. Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron. Avoid foods and drinks inhibiting iron absorption, such as coffee, tea, and milk. Take an iron supplement if recommended by her doctor.

Based on her medical history and symptoms, some other medical conditions that should be considered or ruled out in conjunction with anemia in your daughter include celiac disease, chron’s disease, ulcerative colitis, heavy menstrual bleeding, thyroid problems, kidney disease, heart disease, and cancer.

I suggest working with your daughter's doctor to develop a personalized treatment plan for her anemia is important. This may include dietary interventions, supplements, and other medications as needed. Her doctor will also need to monitor her progress and make adjustments to her treatment plan as needed. In addition to the above, here are some specific tips for improving your daughter's iron levels, encourage her to eat plenty of iron-rich foods, such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, and iron-fortified cereals. Consider cooking foods in iron cookware. Encourage her to drink plenty of fluids. Make sure she is getting enough rest. If your daughter is taking an iron supplement, be sure to give it to her as directed by her doctor. Iron supplements can cause side effects, such as constipation and stomach upset.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.

Regards.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Gaurav Gupta
Dr. Gaurav Gupta

General Practitioner

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