Anemia

One of the consequences of chronic kidney disease for many patients is a lack of red blood cells (low hemoglobin). Our kidneys also produce a hormone called erythropoietin, a hormone that signals the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. When kidney disease progresses, erythropoietin production often slows down. When this occurs, fewer red blood cells are produced, resulting in anemia. In addition, many patients have low iron levels which is needed for erythrolein to work. Your kidney doctor can prescribe irons as well as give you medicine if needed to increase her hemoglobin levels and erythropoietin production levels if indicated.