It is not an uncommon problem, and it can usually be treated.
Your RBCs containhemoglobin, an iron-containing protein that carries oxygen throughout your body.
This article explains the causes, symptoms, and management of anemia.
Illustration by Theresa Chiechi for Verywell Health
Illustration by Theresa Chiechi for Verywell Health
Common Causes of Anemia
There are many differentcauses of anemia.
It usually develops due to a deficiency in producing RBCs or excess RBC loss.
In contrast, lead toxicity or liver disease can progress slowly, leading to a gradual progression of anemia.
Whos at Risk for Anemia?
Anemia Symptoms: How Can You Tell?
Common symptoms of anemia include:
Symptoms depend on the cause of anemia.
These symptoms arent necessarily brought on by anemia, but they may occur along with anemia.
Associated symptoms may include:
These symptoms can help in the diagnostic process.
When to See a Healthcare Provider for Anemia Symptoms
It is never safe to leave anemia untreated.
Blood tests can helpidentify whether you have anemia and its cause.
Blood tests for anemia include:
Further tests may be done to look for the underlying cause.
Signs of Severe Anemia
Anemia can range in severity.
Even mild anemia requires treatment, but severe anemia can be a medical emergency.
You could develop an acute form of anemia, or a chronic form can suddenly worsen.
The effects of severe anemia can be obvious and may include extreme dizziness or loss of consciousness.
For example, an antiparasitic medication is used to treat malaria.
Preventing anemia is mainly based on maintaining healthy, well-balanced nutrition.
Summary
Anemia is a low RBC count or abnormal RBCs that do not function properly.
Some people are predisposed to anemia due to underlying health conditions.
Anemia can also develop due to nutritional deficiencies or illnesses like cancer or infections.
The causes of anemia are very diverse, but the symptoms tend to be similar regardless of the cause.
Common symptoms are fatigue, headaches, and dizziness.
You should see a healthcare provider if you experience any anemia symptoms.
Severe, acute anemia may cause a rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, and loss of consciousness.
One of the first screening blood tests done to evaluate most medical conditions is a CBC.
Treatment for anemia is usually effective.
doi:10.1136/ijgc-2023-004403
American Academy of Family Physicians.Anemia.
2016;8(12):767. doi:10.3390/nu8120767
