Acute Posthemorrhagic Anemia
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 7, 2024.
Acute posthemorrhagic anemia is a condition that develops when you lose a large amount of blood quickly. Anemia is a low number of red blood cells or a low amount of hemoglobin in your red blood cells. Hemoglobin is a protein that helps red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body.
WHILE YOU ARE HERE:
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Activity:
You may need to rest. Your healthcare provider will tell you when it is okay to increase your activities. Call your healthcare provider before getting up for the first time. If you ever feel weak or dizzy, sit or lie down right away. Then call your healthcare provider.
A heart monitor
is also called an ECG or EKG. Sticky pads placed on your skin record your heart's electrical activity.
You may need extra oxygen
if your blood oxygen level is lower than it should be. You may get oxygen through a mask placed over your nose and mouth or through small tubes placed in your nostrils. Ask your healthcare provider before you take off the mask or oxygen tubing.
A pulse oximeter
is a device that measures the amount of oxygen in your blood. A cord with a clip or sticky strip is placed on your finger, ear, or toe. The other end of the cord is hooked to a machine.
Iron supplements
may be given if your iron level is too low.
Blood tests
are used to check the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Platelets are the sticky part of your blood that helps form clots to stop bleeding. The tests may also be used to find how well your blood clots to stop bleeding.
Treatment:
- A blood transfusion may be needed if your body cannot replace the blood you have lost.
- Surgery may be needed to stop the bleeding, or to fix an injury.
- Fluids may be given through an IV to help increase your blood pressure.
RISKS:
Severe blood loss can cause shock. Shock can make your blood pressure fall very low. Severe blood loss can be life-threatening if the blood is not replaced quickly enough.
CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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