G6PD deficiency overview

#shorts #g6pd #deficiency #overview G6PD deficiency is a genetic abnormality that results in an inadequate amount of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) in the blood. This is a very important enzyme (or protein) that regulates various biochemical reactions in the body. G6PD is also responsible for keeping red blood cells healthy so they can function properly and live a normal life span. Without enough of it, red blood cells break down prematurely. This early destruction of red blood cells is known as hemolysis, and it can eventually lead to hemolytic anemia. Hemolytic anemia develops when red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body can replace them, resulting in reduced oxygen flow to the organs and tissues. This can cause fatigue, yellowing of the skin and eyes, and shortness of breath. In people with G6PD deficiency, hemolytic anemia can occur after eating fava beans or certain legumes. It may also be triggered by infections or by certain drugs, such as: antimalarials, a type of medication used to prevent and treat malaria sulfonamides, a medication used for treating various infections aspirin, a drug used for relieving fever, pain, and swelling some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) G6PD deficiency is most prevalent in Africa, where it can affect up to 20 percent of the population. The condition is also more common in men than in women. Most people with G6PD deficiency usually don’t experience any symptoms. However, some may develop symptoms when they’re exposed to the medication, food, or infection that triggers the early destruction of red blood cells. Once the underlying cause is treated or resolved, symptoms of G6PD deficiency usually disappear within a few weeks.