Contents
Are You at Risk for Hemolytic Anemia? Key Factors to Watch
Published: Feb 26, 2024
Hemolytic anemia can affect anyone, but certain factors increase your risk. Knowing these can help you stay vigilant and seek early medical attention if needed.
Genetic Factors
Some types of hemolytic anemia are inherited. If you have a family history of conditions like sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or hereditary spherocytosis, you may be at higher risk. These genetic factors affect the structure or function of red blood cells, making them more prone to destruction.
Autoimmune Conditions
People with certain autoimmune disorders are more likely to develop autoimmune hemolytic anemia. This includes conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or ulcerative colitis. In these cases, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy red blood cells.
Medications and Toxins
Some medications can trigger hemolytic anemia as a side effect. This includes certain antibiotics, anti-malarial drugs, and even some over-the-counter pain relievers. Exposure to certain toxins, like lead or copper, can also increase your risk. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking.
Other Health Conditions
Certain infections, cancers, and blood disorders can increase your risk of hemolytic anemia. For example, people with lymphoma or leukemia may be more susceptible. Severe burns or artificial heart valves can also sometimes lead to red blood cell destruction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stress alone doesn't cause it, but may exacerbate existing conditions.
It can occur at any age, but some types are more common in specific groups.
Healthy habits may help, but can't prevent genetic or autoimmune causes.
Some inherited forms are more common in certain ethnic groups.
Pregnancy can sometimes trigger or worsen hemolytic anemia.
Staying Informed
While you can't control all risk factors, being aware of them can lead to earlier detection and better outcomes.
References
- Barcellini W, Fattizzo B. Clinical Applications of Hemolytic Markers in the Differential Diagnosis and Management of Hemolytic Anemia. Dis Markers 2015; 2015:635670.
- Brodsky RA. Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia. N Engl J Med 2019; 381:647.
- L'Acqua C, Hod E. New perspectives on the thrombotic complications of haemolysis. Br J Haematol 2015; 168:175.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?