Will uterine fibroids eat blood and cause anemia?

Uterine fibroids may cause anemia. The main reason is that some uterine fibroids, due to their location and size, can cause abnormal uterine bleeding, leading to long-term or massive hemorrhagic anemia. By combining the cause and symptom analysis, treatment methods include drug therapy, surgical intervention, and dietary conditioning.

1) Causes of anemia caused by uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids can cause anemia primarily through abnormal bleeding, which can be caused by:

- Location of fibroid growth: For example, fibroids located under the uterine mucosa can easily interfere with the normal shedding of the endometrium, leading to increased menstrual flow or prolonged menstruation.

- Fibroid size: Larger fibroids may increase the surface area of ​​the uterus and promote angiogenesis, which may lead to abnormal menstrual flow.

-Influence of hormone levels: The occurrence of uterine fibroids is related to increased estrogen levels, and high estrogen levels themselves may cause thickening of the endometrium and increased menstrual blood volume.

2) Manifestations and diagnosis of anemia

Hemorrhagic anemia caused by uterine fibroids often presents with the following symptoms: pale complexion, fatigue, dizziness, etc., which require special vigilance. A routine blood test can reveal a decrease in hemoglobin, and ultrasound examination can confirm the presence and severity of uterine fibroids. If these symptoms or abnormal indicators are found, seek medical attention in a timely manner.

3) Treatment of uterine fibroids and anemia

-Medication: The following medications may be tried to control bleeding and anemia:

-Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH-a): such as leuprolide, can temporarily shrink fibroids and reduce menstrual flow.

- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Such as ibuprofen, can help relieve symptoms of cramping and heavy menstrual flow.

- Oral contraceptives: By regulating hormone levels, they can improve the problem of heavy menstrual flow in some cases.

-Surgery: When medications are ineffective or symptoms are severe, surgery may be considered:

-Myomectomy: Suitable for patients who wish to preserve their fertility, only the fibroids are removed.

-Hysterectomy: For patients who are no longer fertile or whose fibroids frequently recur, it can completely solve the problem.

-Uterine artery embolization: By blocking the blood supply to the fibroids, the fibroids can be shrunk or even disappear.

-Dietary adjustment: focus on nutritional supplements for anemia:

-Iron-rich foods: such as red meat, animal liver and spinach.

-Supplement vitamin C: such as citrus fruits, which helps the body absorb iron better.

Early detection and active treatment of abnormal bleeding caused by uterine fibroids can effectively prevent anemia. If the symptoms of anemia are obvious or the treatment is ineffective, you should consult a doctor immediately to adjust the treatment plan and regularly check the health of the uterus.