Inflammation and Chronic Disease

New DocumentInflammation and Chronic Disease

What is anemia?

Anemia is a condition in which the blood has a lower-than-normal number of red blood cells (RBCs). RBCs contain hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein that gives blood its red color and allows RBCs to transport oxygen from the lungs to the tissues of the body. Because RBC numbers are low in anemia, blood hemoglobin levels are also low.

People with anemia may feel tired because their blood does not supply enough oxygen to the body’s organs and tissues. If anemia becomes severe and prolonged, the lack of oxygen in the blood can lead to shortness of breath or exercise intolerance—a condition in which a person becomes easily fatigued during or after physical activity—and eventually cause the heart and other organs to fail.

What is anemia of Inflammation?

AI/ACD is a type of anemia that commonly occurs with chronic, or long-term, illnesses or infections. Cancer and inflammatory disorders, in which abnormal activation of the immune system occurs, can also cause AI/ACD. Some people develop AI/ACD without having any signs of these health problems.

AI/ACD is easily confused with iron-deficiency anemia because in both forms of anemia, levels of iron circulating in the blood are low. Circulating iron is necessary for RBC production. Low blood iron levels occur in iron-deficiency anemia because levels of iron stored in the body’s tissues are depleted. In AI/ACD, however, iron stores are normal or high. Low blood levels occur in AI/ACD, despite normal iron stores, because inflammatory and chronic diseases interfere with the body’s ability to use stored iron and absorb iron from the diet. Certain treatments for chronic diseases may also impair RBC production and contribute to AI/ACD. AI/ACD is the second most common form of anemia, after iron-deficiency anemia, but it is rarely severe.

While AI/ACD can affect people at any age, older adults are especially susceptible because they have the highest rates of chronic disease. AI/ACD is also common among hospitalized patients, particularly those with chronic illnesses.

More than 130 million Americans live with chronic conditions.1 Addressing the causes of anemia in people with chronic conditions can help improve their health and quality of life.

1Chronic disease overview. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site. http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/overview.htm. Updated March 20, 2008. Accessed April 1, 2008.

Recently, medical science has discovered many medicinal uses for Nopal.The mucilage and pectin that are extracted from the fibers of the plant produce a thick syrup that helps to regulate and reduce blood sugar and cholesterol. The syrup also relives sore throat and and irritable bowel syndrome.

To learn more about benefits of Nopal visit here Pain Relief

Jack Shea
King Article Writer
Providing Healthy Living Resources
Independent AM #13115780
Free Nopal Newsletter

The above information presented herein is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.