Anaemia is a common condition characterised by a lower-than-normal number of red blood cells or the amount of haemoglobin in the blood. It can cause various symptoms such as tiredness, weakness, and shortness of breath. Anaemia can be caused by inadequate production, excessive loss, or increased destruction of red blood cells, and requires timely diagnosis and treatment.
Last updated on : 05 May, 2025
Read time : 13 mins
Anaemia is a condition characterised by a lower-than-normal number of red blood cells or the amount of haemoglobin in the blood. Haemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body's tissues. Without sufficient haemoglobin or red blood cells, the body's tissues do not receive enough oxygen, leading to various symptoms and complications. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for anaemia is essential for effective management of this condition.
Anaemia is a condition in which the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin to carry oxygen effectively to the body's tissues. Haemoglobin is a crucial protein found in red blood cells that binds to oxygen in the lungs and transports it to various organs and tissues throughout the body. When a person has anaemia, their body may experience symptoms such as tiredness, weakness, and shortness of breath due to the insufficient oxygen supply. Anaemia can be classified into various types, each with its own underlying cause, and can range from mild to severe. Some forms of anaemia may be prevented by maintaining a healthy diet, while others may require medical intervention.
Category | Details |
Also Referred as | Iron deficiency anaemia, macrocytic anaemia, normocytic anaemia |
Commonly Occurs In | Women of childbearing age, infants, elderly individuals |
Affected Organ | Bone marrow, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys |
Type | Macrocytic, microcytic, normocytic |
Common Signs | Fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness |
Consulting Specialist | Haematologist, gastroenterologist, nephrologist |
Treatement Procedures | Dietary changes, iron supplements, addressing underlying causes |
Managed By | General practitioner, haematologist |
Mimiciking Condition | Chronic diseases (e.g., kidney disease, cancer), infection, chronic inflammation |
There are several types of anaemia, each with its own causes and characteristics. These include:
The signs and symptoms of anaemia can vary depending on the severity and the underlying cause. Some common symptoms include:
The stages of anaemia are categorised based on the severity of the condition and the associated symptoms. These include:
Anaemia can result from various factors depending on the type. The most common form is iron-deficiency anaemia, which may develop due to low iron intake, blood loss from illness or injury, or inherited and acquired health conditions. Some common causes include:
Several factors can increase the risk of developing anaemia, including:
Recognising these risk factors can help in the early identification and prevention of anaemia. However, if anaemia is left untreated, it can lead to various complications.
Untreated anaemia can result in several health problems, including:
Preventing anaemia involves dietary and lifestyle changes, such as including iron-rich foods in daily meals. While iron-deficiency anaemia is often preventable, some types, like inherited disorders, cannot be prevented and require medical management. Some preventative measures include:
Diagnosing anaemia involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and blood tests:
Physical examination: A doctor will look for signs of anaemia, such as pale skin, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath.
Medical history: The doctor will ask about your symptoms, diet, medications, and any family history of anaemia or blood disorders.
Complete blood count (CBC): This blood test measures the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in your blood. It also checks haemoglobin levels, which can indicate anaemia if they are low.
Blood smear: A sample of your blood is examined under a microscope to check the size, shape, and appearance of your red blood cells, which can help identify the type of anaemia.
Iron tests: These tests measure the levels of iron in your blood and your body's total iron-storing capacity. They include serum iron, ferritin, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and transferrin saturation tests.
Vitamin B12 and folate tests: These blood tests check for deficiencies in these essential nutrients, which can cause anaemia.
Reticulocyte count: This test measures the number of young red blood cells in your blood, helping determine whether your bone marrow is producing enough red blood cells.
Additional tests: Depending on the suspected cause of your anaemia, your doctor may recommend further tests, such as a bone marrow biopsy, genetic tests for inherited anaemias, or tests for underlying conditions like kidney disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
The treatment and management of anaemia depend on its underlying cause and severity. These include:
Increasing iron-rich foods such as red meat, beans, and leafy greens is crucial for iron deficiency anaemia. Consuming these with vitamin C sources enhances absorption. For folate deficiency anaemia, folic acid-rich foods like citrus fruits and leafy greens are beneficial.
Elemental iron is commonly prescribed for iron deficiency anaemia. Combination formulations like elemental iron + folic acid or ferrous glycine + folic acid may be used to enhance red blood cell production and replenish nutrient stores.
Folic acid is essential for preventing and managing megaloblastic anaemia caused by folate deficiency.
Epoetin alfa is used in anaemia associated with chronic kidney disease or cancer to stimulate red blood cell production.
For severe deficiencies or in cases where oral supplements are not tolerated, intravenous iron may be administered.
Living with anaemia can be challenging, but there are several steps you can take to manage the condition and maintain a good quality of life:
Eat a balanced diet rich in iron, folate, and vitamin B12. Good sources include lean meats, leafy green vegetables, legumes, and fortified cereals.
Take prescribed medications and supplements as directed by your doctor.
Stay hydrated and get enough rest to help your body cope with fatigue.
Engage in regular, moderate exercise to improve circulation and boost energy levels. However, consult your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.
Manage stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can worsen anaemia symptoms.
Attend regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed.
It is important to consult a doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms of anaemia, such as persistent fatigue or weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness or lightheadedness, cold hands and feet, chest pain, or headaches. If you have been diagnosed with anaemia and notice worsening symptoms or new symptoms, it is essential to inform your doctor promptly. Regular check-ups with your doctor are crucial for monitoring your condition and adjusting treatment as needed to ensure effective management of the disorder.
Anaemia is a condition in which the body lacks sufficient healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to the tissues.
Common causes of anaemia include iron deficiency, chronic diseases, blood loss, vitamin deficiencies, and inherited disorders such as sickle cell anaemia.
Symptoms of anaemia may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, and cold hands and feet.
Diagnosis of anaemia involves a complete blood count (CBC) and other tests to determine the underlying cause.
Treatment for anaemia depends on the specific type and may include iron supplements, vitamin B12 injections, blood transfusions, and managing any underlying conditions.
Preventing anaemia involves eating a balanced diet rich in iron, folate, and vitamin B12, as well as managing any chronic conditions that may contribute to the development of anaemia.
If you suspect you have anaemia or experience any concerning symptoms, it is essential to consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anaemia, which can result from blood loss, inadequate iron intake, or poor iron absorption.
Anaemia can be a severe health issue if not treated, potentially leading to extreme fatigue, pregnancy complications, heart problems, and life-threatening complications in inherited anaemias.
While no specific foods are prohibited, tea, coffee, and milk can hinder iron absorption, so it's best to consume them separately from iron-rich meals.
Drinks high in vitamin C, such as orange juice or other citrus juices, can enhance iron absorption from plant-based sources.
Early-stage anaemia may cause mild symptoms like weakness, fatigue, headaches, concentration issues, and irritability, or even no symptoms at all.
Anaemia leads to insufficient healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin, causing symptoms like tiredness, weakness, breathlessness, pallor, dizziness, and irregular heartbeat, with severe cases potentially leading to serious complications.
While lack of sleep doesn't directly cause anaemia, chronic conditions that disrupt sleep can indirectly contribute to its development by impacting the body's red blood cell production.
Preventing anaemia involves consuming an iron-rich diet, taking iron supplements if prescribed, treating underlying causes like heavy menstrual bleeding, and managing chronic conditions that may contribute to anaemia.
To recover from anaemia quickly, follow your doctor's treatment plan, which may include iron supplements, dietary changes, treating underlying causes, and, in severe cases, blood transfusions.
The best treatment for anaemia depends on the type and cause, but common approaches include iron supplementation, dietary modifications, treating underlying conditions, and, in some cases, blood transfusions or other medical procedures.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (n.d.). What is anemia? https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/anemia
Patel, A. J., & Aeddula, N. R. (2022). Anemia. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499994/
World Health Organization. (2021). Anemia https://www.who.int/health-topics/anaemia
MedlinePlus. (2020). Anemia. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000560.htm
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