Pediatrics Common Questions, Quick Answers

Anemia (Iron Deficiency)

Donna D'Alessandro, M.D.
Lindsay Huth, B.A.
Peer Review Status: Internally Reviewed
Creation Date: February 2002
Last Revision Date: April 2002

Common Questions, Quick Answers

• What is anemia?
• What causes anemia?
• Who can be anemic?
• What are the symptoms of anemia?
• Is anemia contagious?
• How is anemia treated?
• How long does anemia last?
• Can anemia be prevented?
• When should I call the doctor?

What is anemia?

• Anemia is having fewer red blood cells than is normal.
• Anemics do not have enough red blood cells.

What causes anemia?

• The body uses iron to make red blood cells and to build muscle and strong bones.
• Red blood cells carry oxygen.
• Anemia in children is most often caused by not eating enough iron, but can have other causes.
• Heavy menstrual periods can cause anemia if too much iron is lost in the blood.

Who can be anemic?

• Anyone who does not get enough iron can be anemic.
• It is especially important for infants and teens to get enough iron.
• Girls who are menstruating need lots of iron.

What are the symptoms of anemia?

• There may be none.
• Symptoms are hard to notice unless the anemia is severe.
• Children may feel weak and get tired easily.
• Children may look pale.
• If anemia is not treated, your child's growth and development could be affected.

Is anemia contagious?

• No. Anemia is not contagious.

How is anemia treated?

• The doctor will take a blood test to see if your child is anemic.
• The red blood cells will be counted and studied.
• If your child is anemic, the doctor will give you instructions.
• Children who are anemic usually need to take an iron supplement.
• To help your child take her medicine, mix it with juice.
• Give her only the amount prescribed.
• Wipe your child's teeth after she takes her medicine.
• The medicine may make your child's stools dark green or black. This is okay.
• Add more iron-rich food to your child's diet. Foods that say "enriched" or "iron-fortified" on the label are a good source of iron.
• Some iron rich food are:
  • Cereals (especially Cheerios, Total, and Cream of Wheat)
  • Peanut butter
  • Beef
  • Pork
  • Turkey
  • Chicken
  • Fish
  • Eggs
  • White, red, and baked beans
  • Peas and lentils
  • Dried fruit (peaches, apricots, raisins)
  • Prune juice
  • Almonds
  • Spinach

How long does anemia last?

• Generally, it will last a few weeks to a few months after your child starts taking medication.

Can anemia be prevented?

• Eat foods high in iron. See the list above for suggestions.
• Children under 1 year old should not drink regular milk. It doesn't have enough iron. Infant formulas do.

When should I call the doctor?

• Call if your child tires easily, is pale, or often feels weak.
• Call if you think your child is anemic.
• Call if you have questions or concerns about your child's condition.

Quick Answers

• Anemics do not have enough red blood cells.
• Children who are anemic may feel weak, get tired easily, and look pale.
• Anemia is not contagious.
• Children who are anemic usually need to take an iron supplement.
• If anemia is not treated your child's growth and development could be affected.
• To prevent anemia, eat foods high in iron.
• Call the doctor if you have questions or concerns about your child's condition.

References

• Bell H. Iron and Teens: A Guide to Anemia Prevention. Children's Hospital Boston. 2000 April 20 (cited 2001 December 3). URL: http://www.youngwomenshealth.org/iron.html
• The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Iron Deficiency Anemia. 1996-2001 (cited 2001 December 3). URL: http://www.chop.edu/consumer/your_child/wellness_index.jsp?id=-8894
• MedicineNet.com. Anemia. 1996-2001 (cited 2001 December 3). URL: http://www.focusonhiv.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2015&rd=1

   

Title Page

See related Patient Topics Anemia, Blood and Blood Disorders, Blood/Lymphatic System, Food, Nutrition and Metabolism or Vitamin and Mineral Supplements.

See related Provider Topics Anemia, Blood and Blood Disorders, Blood/Lymphatic System or Food, Nutrition and Metabolism.

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