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Anemia: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

Anemia is one of the most common blood disorders in the world, affecting over 1.6 billion people globally. Whether it’s caused by a nutritional deficiency, chronic disease, or blood loss, anemia can lead to fatigue, weakness, and a lower quality of life.

What Is Anemia?

Anemia occurs when your body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your tissues. It can be temporary or chronic, and symptoms may range from mild to severe depending on the type and cause.

Common Symptoms of Anemia

Recognizing anemia early is key to effective treatment. Some of the most common signs of anemia include:

  • Persistent fatigue

  • Pale or yellowish skin

  • Shortness of breath

  • Rapid heartbeat

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness

  • Cold hands and feet

  • Headaches

  • Chest pain (in more severe cases)

If you experience these symptoms consistently, a simple blood test can confirm if you’re anemic.

Main Causes of Anemia

There are over 400 types of anemia, but the most common causes fall into these three categories:

1. Iron-Deficiency Anemia

This is the most common type, often caused by:

  • Poor diet

  • Blood loss (e.g., heavy menstruation or ulcers)

  • Pregnancy

  • Inability to absorb iron (celiac disease, gastric surgery)

2. Vitamin Deficiency Anemia

Lack of vitamin B12 or folate can hinder red blood cell production. Common in:

  • Vegans/vegetarians without supplementation

  • People with digestive disorders (e.g., Crohn’s)

  • Older adults

3. Chronic Disease or Inflammation

Conditions like kidney disease, cancer, or autoimmune disorders can interfere with red blood cell production.

Who’s at Risk of Anemia?

You may be at a higher risk of developing anemia if you are:

  • A woman of childbearing age

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Following a vegan or vegetarian diet without proper supplementation

  • Living with a chronic disease

  • Recovering from surgery or trauma involving blood loss

  • Elderly

How Is Anemia Diagnosed?

Doctors typically order a Complete Blood Count (CBC) to diagnose anemia. This test checks:

  • Hemoglobin levels

  • Hematocrit (proportion of red blood cells)

  • Red blood cell size and count

Additional tests may include iron studies, vitamin B12 levels, and bone marrow exams (for severe or unexplained cases).

Anemia Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Here’s a breakdown:

✅ Iron-Deficiency Anemia

  • Oral iron supplements

    • Visit Fergus Pharmacy to get recommendation from our pharmacist

  • Iron-rich foods: red meat, spinach, lentils, fortified cereals

  • Treating the source of blood loss

✅ Vitamin B12 or Folate Deficiency

  • Oral or injectable B12 supplements

  • Folic acid pills

  • Diet changes: eggs, dairy, leafy greens, liver

✅ Chronic Disease-Related Anemia

  • Treat the underlying disease

  • In some cases: Erythropoietin injections or blood transfusions

Can Anemia Be Prevented?

Yes! Lifestyle and diet changes can significantly reduce your risk.

🥗 Top Prevention Tips:

  • Eat iron-rich foods (meat, legumes, leafy greens)

  • Include vitamin C to boost iron absorption

  • Take prenatal vitamins during pregnancy

  • Avoid excessive caffeine (it hinders iron absorption)

  • Monitor your health with regular check-ups