Severe and Chronic Anemia with Dr. Akram Fayad: When Does It Become Critical?

Anemia is a common condition that ranges in severity depending on its cause and duration. According to Professor Dr. Akram Mohamed Fayad, Consultant of Internal Medicine, anemia can be either acute—developing suddenly and requiring urgent treatment—or chronic, evolving over time and often linked to underlying health conditions.

What is Anemia?

Anemia occurs when the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to tissues. This results in symptoms like fatigue, paleness, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

Acute Anemia: A Medical Emergency

Dr. Akram Fayad explains that acute anemia usually results from rapid blood loss due to trauma, surgery, or internal bleeding. It may also occur in hemolytic crises where red blood cells break down suddenly. This condition is often accompanied by:

• A rapid drop in hemoglobin levels

• Chest pain or fainting

• Rapid heartbeat or low blood pressure

Immediate hospitalization and blood transfusions may be required to stabilize the patient.

Chronic Anemia: When the Problem Persists

In contrast, chronic anemia develops gradually and is commonly associated with:

• Iron deficiency

• Chronic kidney disease

• Inflammatory diseases

• Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., B12, folate)

Dr. Akram Fayad emphasizes the importance of identifying the root cause of chronic anemia through comprehensive blood tests and clinical evaluation, as it may indicate a more serious underlying illness.

When Should You Be Concerned?

You should seek medical advice if you experience:

• Persistent fatigue and weakness

• Pale skin and cold hands/feet

• Dizziness or headaches

• Irregular heartbeat

Left untreated, both acute and chronic anemia can lead to heart strain, cognitive issues, or complications in existing conditions.

Dr. Akram Fayad’s Approach

With decades of experience in internal medicine and critical care, Dr. Akram Fayad provides accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans for each case of anemia. He collaborates with nutritionists and other specialists to ensure holistic care—especially in complex or recurrent cases.