Hemolytic anemia

Updated: 2024-01-23

Description

A condition in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body makes them.

Overview

Hemolytic anemia can be mild or serious. The condition can be passed through families or due to an autoimmune condition, an infection, or another condition passed through families, such as sickle cell anemia or thalassemia. Some medicines can cause it.

Symptoms

There might be no symptoms. If there are, symptoms might include feeling tired, weak and dizzy. The spleen or liver might feel larger than usual.

Treatments

Treatment depends on the cause. Folic acid supplements might help. Other treatments might include blood transfusions, medicines, blood and bone marrow transplants, or surgery to remove the spleen.