What causes anemia in elderly males?

What causes anemia in elderly males?

The most common causes of anemia in the elderly are chronic disease and iron deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency, folate deficiency, gastrointestinal bleeding and myelodysplastic syndrome are among other causes of anemia in the elderly.

What are the symptoms of low iron in a man?

Iron deficiency anemia signs and symptoms may include:

  • Extreme fatigue.
  • Weakness.
  • Pale skin.
  • Chest pain, fast heartbeat or shortness of breath.
  • Headache, dizziness or lightheadedness.
  • Cold hands and feet.
  • Inflammation or soreness of your tongue.
  • Brittle nails.

How does anemia affect older adults?

Anemia in the elderly is particularly relevant as it has a number of serious consequences. Anemia has been associated with a higher incidence of cardiovascular disease,4 cognitive impairment,15 decreased physical performance and quality of life,16–18 and increased risk of falls and fractures.

Can anemia be fatal in elderly?

Anemia in very elderly people aged 85 and older appears to be associated with an increased risk of death, according to a new study. Anemia in very elderly people aged 85 and older appears to be associated with an increased risk of death, according to a new study in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).

What helps anemia in elderly?

Treatment of anemia in older adults

  1. Iron supplementation. Ferrous sulfate. Ferrous gluconate. Ferrous fumarate. Polysaccharide iron.
  2. B12 supplementation.
  3. Folate supplementation.
  4. Dietary considerations. Seafood. Red meats. Beans and whole grains. Vegetables.
  5. Blood transfusion.
  6. Treatment of underlying cause or condition.

Can anemia cause confusion in elderly?

In older adults, anemia might have even more impact in causing confusion or depression. Weakness may make walking more difficult. Anemia may shorten your lifespan if you are older and it is not treated.

How is anemia diagnosed in elderly?

Clinicians often confirm the lower hemoglobin level by repeating the CBC test. If clinicians detect anemia, they usually will review the mean corpuscular volume measurement (included in the CBC) to see if the red cells are smaller or bigger than normal.

Do elderly need iron supplements?

The answer is: probably not. While there is no exact iron limit for everyone, there are real dangers in taking too much. Diet is, most of the time, the best way to regulate and moderate your iron intake. However, there may be cases where an older adult will need to take an iron supplement.

How is anemia treated in elderly?

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