Sometimes, medical conditions can cause abnormal hemolysis.
This article will describe normal and abnormal hemolysis and what to expect.
When youre healthy, you wont feel the effects of RBC breakdown or regeneration.
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If the cause of anemia is hemolysis, you may also experience symptoms related to hemolytic processes.
Examples are jaundice (yellowing of skin) or scleral icterus (yellowing of eyes).
Related Conditions
Many different medical conditions can cause hemolysis.
Some of these disorders are chronic, inherited conditions that make the RBCs especially fragile.
Hemolysis can also develop due to health issues that damage RBCs.
The way that each medication leads to hemolysis differs.
Why Does Abnormal Hemolysis Happen?
With normal hemolysis, the rate of RBC breakdown is about the same as the rate of RBC regeneration.
If its not treated, chronic hemolysis may lead to death.
There are many causes of hemolysis, and the severity can vary significantly.
Treatment can prolong survival and reduce the symptoms.
Organ damage associated with hemolysis can lead to worse outcomes and a lower chance of survival.
For example, infections such as malaria require specific antiparasitic treatment.
In some cases, blood transfusions may benefit people who have hemolytic anemia.
Blood transfusions can restore a normal RBC count, alleviating symptoms and complications.
Long Term Treatment and Prevention
The cause directs long-term treatment.
The treatment of G6PD deficiency involvesavoiding exposure to substances that can induce hemolysis.
If a person with G6PD deficiency develops hemolytic anemia, a prompt blood transfusion may benefit them.
Living Well With Abnormal Hemolysis
Abnormal hemolysis is a dangerous consequence of several different medical disorders.
If diagnosed with abnormal hemolysis, you could have a healthy life and a good outcome.
Abnormal hemolysis can occur as a consequence of many different medical conditions.
Routine blood tests can help detect signs of hemolysis.
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