Question 1

What is Anemia?

Accepted Answer

Anemia is a condition where your body lacks enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry adequate oxygen to your tissues. It is caused by iron deficiency, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, chronic diseases, blood loss, or bone marrow problems. The Complete Blood Count (CBC) is the most important test for anemia diagnosis because it measures hemoglobin levels, red blood cell count, and parameters that identify specific anemia types.

Question 2

What causes anemia?

Accepted Answer

Anemia is caused by iron deficiency, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, chronic diseases like kidney disease or cancer, blood loss from menstruation or internal bleeding, and bone marrow disorders. Iron deficiency is the most common cause worldwide, often resulting from inadequate dietary intake, poor absorption, or ongoing blood loss. Other causes include inherited conditions like sickle cell disease or thalassemia, autoimmune disorders that destroy red blood cells, and exposure to toxic substances like lead that interfere with hemoglobin production.

Question 3

What is the best test for anemia?

Accepted Answer

The Complete Blood Count (CBC) is the most important test for anemia because it measures hemoglobin levels, red blood cell count, hematocrit, and key parameters like MCH, MCHC, and RDW that identify specific anemia types. This single test can distinguish between iron deficiency anemia (microcytic), vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anemia (macrocytic), and other forms. A Reticulocyte Count is essential as a follow-up test because it measures immature red blood cells to assess whether your bone marrow is producing enough new cells or if anemia results from blood loss or cell destruction. For identifying underlying causes, tests like Vitamin B6, Vitamin B2, and the Lead Blood test help pinpoint nutritional deficiencies or toxic exposures interfering with hemoglobin production.

Question 4

When should I get tested for anemia?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent fatigue that doesn't improve with rest, weakness, pale or yellowish skin, shortness of breath during normal activities, dizziness or lightheadedness, cold hands and feet, or irregular heartbeat. Women with heavy menstrual periods, pregnant women, people with chronic diseases like kidney disease or cancer, vegetarians and vegans, and anyone with a family history of inherited blood disorders should get tested regularly. If you notice symptoms worsening or affecting your daily life, prompt testing helps identify the type of anemia and underlying cause for targeted treatment.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of anemia?

Accepted Answer

The most common symptoms of anemia include persistent fatigue and weakness, pale or yellowish skin, shortness of breath especially during physical activity, dizziness or lightheadedness, cold hands and feet, brittle nails, rapid or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, and frequent headaches. You might also notice difficulty concentrating, cravings for non-food items like ice or dirt (a condition called pica), and sore or swollen tongue. Symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on how quickly the anemia develops and how low your hemoglobin levels drop.

Question 6

Who is at risk for anemia?

Accepted Answer

Women of childbearing age are at higher risk due to blood loss from menstruation and increased iron needs during pregnancy. Infants, children, and teenagers going through growth spurts need more iron and are vulnerable to deficiency. People with chronic diseases like kidney disease, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, or inflammatory bowel disease face increased risk. Vegetarians and vegans who don't consume adequate plant-based iron sources, older adults with poor nutrition, people with a family history of inherited anemias like sickle cell disease or thalassemia, and those regularly taking certain medications like aspirin or blood thinners are also at elevated risk.

Question 7

What happens if anemia is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated anemia can lead to severe fatigue that makes it impossible to complete daily tasks or work effectively. Your heart must work harder to pump oxygen-poor blood throughout your body, which can lead to an enlarged heart, heart murmurs, or even heart failure. Severe anemia during pregnancy increases the risk of premature birth and low birth weight babies. Children with chronic anemia may experience delayed growth and development. In extreme cases, untreated anemia can cause organ damage due to prolonged oxygen deprivation, and very severe anemia can be life-threatening.

Question 8

Can anemia be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, anemia is diagnosed primarily through blood tests. The Complete Blood Count (CBC) is the definitive diagnostic tool that measures your hemoglobin levels, red blood cell count, hematocrit, and red blood cell characteristics. These values reveal not only whether you have anemia but also help identify the specific type. Additional blood tests like iron studies, vitamin B12 and folate levels, reticulocyte count, and tests for underlying conditions provide a complete picture of what's causing your anemia. Blood tests are the most accurate and direct method for diagnosing anemia and monitoring treatment effectiveness.

Question 9

How is anemia treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment depends on the type and cause of your anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is typically treated with iron supplements and dietary changes to include more iron-rich foods like red meat, beans, and fortified cereals. Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anemia requires vitamin supplements or injections. Anemia caused by chronic disease focuses on treating the underlying condition. In cases of blood loss, identifying and stopping the bleeding source is critical. Severe anemia may require blood transfusions, and certain types like aplastic anemia or sickle cell disease may need medications, bone marrow transplants, or other specialized treatments.

Question 10

How can I prevent anemia?

Accepted Answer

Eat a balanced diet rich in iron from red meat, beans, lentils, fortified cereals, and dark leafy greens, along with vitamin C to enhance iron absorption. Include vitamin B12 from meat, eggs, and dairy, or take supplements if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. Folate-rich foods like citrus fruits, beans, and fortified grains are essential, especially for pregnant women. Manage chronic conditions that increase anemia risk, and address heavy menstrual bleeding with your doctor. Avoid excessive tea or coffee with meals as they can inhibit iron absorption, and limit alcohol consumption which can interfere with nutrient absorption and red blood cell production.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with anemia?

Accepted Answer

Natural approaches include eating iron-rich foods like spinach, red meat, pumpkin seeds, and quinoa paired with vitamin C sources like oranges, strawberries, or bell peppers to boost absorption. Cooking in cast-iron cookware adds small amounts of iron to your food. Blackstrap molasses is a natural iron source that can be added to warm water or oatmeal. Herbal teas like nettle and yellow dock have traditionally been used to support red blood cell production, though they should complement rather than replace medical treatment. Avoid drinking tea or coffee with meals as they contain compounds that block iron absorption. While these remedies support overall health, they work best alongside proper medical diagnosis and treatment, especially for moderate to severe anemia.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Anemia Blood Test

What is Anemia?

What causes anemia?

What is the best test for anemia?

When should I get tested for anemia?

References

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