Vana, a 22-year-old came in to the clinic because her sister needs to have blood transfusion

after having a severe blood loss due to surgery. But when she went to the blood bank
voluntary blood donation, she learned that she cannot donate blood. She insisted because it
is for her sister, However, she was told that her erythrocyte count and hemoglobin levels
are too low. The blood bank recommends that Vana should see he physician for
examination.

1. What condition might Anna have that is characterized by a low erythrocyte count and
hemoglobin level?
Anna has a blood condition called anemia. Anemia is characterized or distinguished by
low level of circulating red blood cells (erythrocyte). Having an anemia, also referred to as low
hemoglobin. Anemia is a condition in which you lack enough healthy red blood cells to carry
adequate oxygen to your body’s tissues.

2. What are the major functions of erythrocytes, and what vital pigment do erythrocytes
contain?
The major functions of erythrocytes are to transport everything that must be caried from
one place to another, such as nutrients, wastes, hormones, oxygen, and body heat.

3. Why do women tend to have a lower erythrocyte count and hemoglobin level than men?
It is because of the hormonal differences of women and men. Male hormones, also
called androgens, stimulate higher hemoglobin production similar to how the men stimulate the
greater muscle development. Women tend to have lower erythrocyte and hemoglobin level
because of the menstrual cycle. Testosterone (men) this hormone directly stimulates
erythropoietin hormone. As a result, more erythrocyte and hemoglobin with less anemia.

4. What general symptoms do individuals with this condition tend to develop?

The person who has anemia or anemic has a symptom of tiredness or fatigue because of
low red blood cell count. Also, shortness of breath, dizziness, headache, coldness in the hands
and feet, pale or yellowish skin, and chest pain.

5. How does diet play a role in preventing and treating this problem
 An anemic person should eat or consume rich in iron in order to make hemoglobin
because most of people who has anemia have a shortage of iron. Eating healthy foods for anemia
is not the cure but it makes the patient to become healthy and prevent from other complications.
A diet should rich in iron, vitamin B, and vitamin C such as leafy green, meat, poultry, liver,
seafood, fortified foods, beans, nuts, and seeds.