Management of Anemia in Kidney Failure

Anemia describes low level of red blood cells in the blood. With kidney disease, the process in producing red blood cells is disturbed. Red blood cells carry oxygen to systemic tissues and organs and enable them to use foods for energies. Without sufficient oxygen, the organs and tissues may not work as they should. Thereby, the patients will experience tiredness and paleness on their face. Anemia is an important contributing factor of heart failure in kidney failure. Management of anemia in kidney failure requires not only proper medications but also essential dietary changes.

Why kidney failure causes anemia?

Healthy kidneys produce a hormone called as erythropoietin, or EPO, which stimulates bone morrow to produce necessary number of red blood cells needed to carry oxygen to vital organs. Failing kidneys will not be as effective in producing EPO. Consequently bone morrow will not produce enough red blood cells, causing anemia. In addition, accumulated toxins in the body impair bone morrow hematopoietic function and reduce lifespan of red blood cells, which also aggravate anemia. Other common causes of anemia include blood loss from hemodialysis and low levels of iron and folic acid. These nutrients from blood help young blood cells to make hemoglobin, the main oxygen-carrying protein.

How to manage anemia in kidney failure?

Proper medicines. EPO, iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid supplements are most commonly applied to relieve renal anemia. After reviewing lab results, doctors will prescribe individual treatment plan.

Blood transfusion. Blood transfusion is usually not used unless there exist severe ferroheme reduction and functions of vital organs (such as brain, heart, liver, lungs, etc) are endangered.

Dialysis. Dialysis can remove accumulated wastes in blood, which may provide a better environment for survival of red blood cells, thus alleviating renal anemia.

Management of renal anemia reduce risks of such severe complications as heart failure, thus improving quality of life and long-term prognosis of kidney failure. You will need to communicate often with doctors to check your condition and make necessary changes. If you have any difficulty, you may also contact us.