Childhood anemia requires treatment based on its underlying cause, which commonly includes nutritional deficiencies, genetic disorders, and chronic diseases. Nutritional deficiencies are the most common cause, especially insufficient intake of iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid, and can be improved by adjusting diet and supplementing with nutritional supplements. Genetic disorders such as thalassemia require long-term management, while chronic diseases such as kidney disease or infections require treatment targeting the primary disease.
1. Nutritional deficiency is one of the main causes of anemia in children. Iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid are essential nutrients for blood production; insufficient intake can lead to reduced red blood cell production. The diet should include more iron-rich foods such as red meat, animal liver, and spinach; vitamin B12-rich foods such as eggs and milk; and folic acid-rich foods such as leafy green vegetables and legumes. If necessary, iron supplements or multivitamins can be taken under the guidance of a doctor.
2. Hereditary diseases such as thalassemia and sickle cell anemia can also cause anemia in children. These diseases are related to gene mutations and may manifest as mild to severe anemia symptoms. Patients with thalassemia require regular blood transfusions and iron chelation therapy, while patients with sickle cell anemia need to be protected against infections and pain crises. Genetic counseling and prenatal screening can help with early detection and intervention.
3. Chronic diseases such as kidney disease, chronic infections, and inflammatory bowel disease can also cause anemia in children. These diseases affect the production or lifespan of red blood cells, leading to chronic anemia. Treatment needs to target the underlying disease; for example, kidney disease requires controlling blood pressure and proteinuria, infections require antibiotics, and inflammatory bowel disease requires immunosuppressants. Simultaneously, erythropoietin or iron supplements can be used to improve anemia.
4. Other causes such as blood loss and hemolytic anemia should also be considered. Acute blood loss, such as trauma or gastrointestinal bleeding, requires emergency hemostasis and blood transfusion. Chronic blood loss, such as menorrhagia, requires investigation and treatment of the underlying cause. Hemolytic anemia may be caused by immune factors, infection, or medications; suspected medications should be discontinued, infection treated, or immunosuppressants used.
Anemia in children has various causes, requiring targeted treatment based on the specific cause. Nutritional deficiencies can be improved through dietary adjustments and supplements; hereditary diseases require long-term management; chronic diseases require treatment of the underlying disease; and blood loss and hemolytic anemia require emergency treatment. Early detection and intervention are crucial for improving prognosis. Parents should pay close attention to their children's diet and health status and seek medical attention promptly.