1. Note the Symptoms
Hemolytic anemia, a medical condition that results in the destruction of red blood cells, is caused by certain defects in the bone marrow. If you're suffering from hemolytic anemia, you'll begin to notice symptoms such as pale skin, chills, fatigue and shortness of breath. As the condition becomes more serious, you'll be able to identify such symptoms such as jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes), rapid heart rate and darkened urine.
2. Determine Whether You Are at Risk
Many factors may put you at risk for developing hemolytic anemia. For instance, an infection can compromise your immune system and affect your body's ability to produce new red blood cells. Certain medications may also trigger a case of hemolytic anemia, so you will need to check with your doctor to see whether there is a connection. Autoimmune disorders such as Type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, dermatomyosis, multiple sclerosis, Graves' Disease and Addison's Disease may also increase the likelihood for developing hemolytic anemia.
3. Visit Your Doctor to Get a Diagnosis
Once you notice the common symptoms of hemolytic anemia, you should see a physician immediately. Your doctor will first take a blood sample to determine whether hemolysis, or the destruction of red blood cells, is evident. Once hemolysis is identified, you doctor will then schedule further tests to screen your urine for hemoglobin, hemosiderin, low serum haptoglobin and a low red blood cell count.
Additional tests may be used to identify hemolytic anemia and to isolate this condition from other types of anemia or blood disorders. These procedures include platelet tests, potassium tests and uric acid tests, among others. Finally, your doctor may feel your abdomen to see whether your spleen is enlarged.
