• Most often, the hidden and painless loss of blood in the elderly and in all ages comes from the gastrointestinal tract – stomach, small intestine or colon. Tarry, black stools are an indication of such bleeding, in some instances. In others, the lost blood is so thoroughly mixed with the stool that people see no changes in it.

What causes a person to lose blood without bleeding?

Diseases and conditions that cause your body to produce fewer red blood cells than normal include: Aplastic anemia. Cancer. Certain medications, such as antiretroviral drugs for HIV infection and chemotherapy drugs for cancer and other conditions.

How serious is anemia in the elderly?

The researchers also found that elderly people with anemia were associated with a 150% increase in hospitalization risk and a 200% increase in risk of being admitted to a nursing home. People with borderline anemia were found to be at 1.5 times the risk of those who were not anemic .

Is low blood count serious?

The most serious complications of low blood cell counts include: Infection. With a low white blood cell count and, in particular, a low level of neutrophils, you’re at higher risk of developing an infection. And if you develop an infection when you have a low white blood cell count , your body can’t protect itself.

What is the reason for blood loss?

Blood loss can be acute and rapid or chronic. Some causes of rapid blood loss include surgery, childbirth, and trauma. Chronic blood loss is more often responsible for anemia . It can result from a stomach ulcer, cancer, or another type of tumor.

What should I drink after losing blood?

To avoid a drop in blood pressure and replenish lost fluids, drink plenty of liquids such as water and sports drinks . Water and sports drinks are available in the canteen area after donation to help you stay healthy and hydrated.

What are the symptoms of too much blood loss?

How much blood loss can occur before you go into hemorrhagic shock? rapid breathing. weakness or fatigue . confusion . cool, pale skin . sweaty, moist skin. anxiety or unease. low urine output. drowsiness.

Can anemia be a sign of something serious?

Anemia is a condition where you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells, to carry oxygen throughout your body. Anemia can be temporary or long term (chronic). In many cases, it’s mild, but anemia can also be serious and life-threatening.

Is anemia common in seniors?

Anemia means having a red blood cell count that is lower than normal , and it’s very common in older adults . About 10% of independently living people over age 65 have anemia . And anemia becomes even more common as people get older.

What foods should you avoid if you have anemia?

Foods to avoid tea and coffee. milk and some dairy products. whole-grain cereals. foods that contain tannins, such as grapes, corn, and sorghum. foods rich in gluten, such as pasta and other products made with wheat, barley, rye, or oats.

What causes blood counts to drop?

Low blood counts can have many causes , including vitamin deficiencies, bleeding , and rare bone marrow failure diseases like aplastic anemia , MDS and PNH. If your blood tests are abnormal, your doctor may do other blood tests or take a sample of your bone marrow to find out why.

How do you treat low red blood cells?

Your doctor or health care provider may prescribe or suggest to treat your low red blood count : Epoetin alfa (PROCRIT^®). Darbepoetin (Aranesp^®). Iron supplement. Multivitamin. A diet high in protein. A red blood cell transfusion.

What is the fastest way to increase red blood cells?

5 nutrients that increase red blood cell counts red meat, such as beef. organ meat, such as kidney and liver. dark, leafy, green vegetables, such as spinach and kale. dried fruits, such as prunes and raisins. beans. legumes. egg yolks.