What is anemia from heavy bleeding?

Anemia from Heavy Bleeding

How can you care for yourself when you have anemia from heavy bleeding?

  • Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
  • Your doctor may recommend eating more foods that have a lot of iron in them. These include red meat, poultry, and eggs. They also include beans, raisins, iron-fortified cereals, whole-grain bread, and leafy green vegetables.
  • Iron pills can cause constipation. If you take them, there are things you can do to avoid constipation. Drink plenty of fluids, eat foods with a lot of fiber, and exercise every day.

Anemia from heavy bleeding: When to call

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

  • You passed out (lost consciousness).
  • Your stools are maroon or very bloody.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You are short of breath.
  • You have new or worse bleeding.
  • You are dizzy or light-headed, or you feel like you may faint.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • You feel weaker or more tired than usual.
  • You do not get better as expected.

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