Common Symptoms of Anemia You Should Never Ignore
Anemia is a very common medical condition that arises when your body does not have sufficient healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to transport sufficient oxygen to your tissues. Anemia can happen to anyone of any age and background, and minor anemia may pass unnoticed initially, but there are some symptoms which should never be ignored. Anemia, if not treated, causes severe health issues, such as cardiovascular disease, extreme tiredness, and pregnancy complications. Identifying the symptoms early on can be the turning point.
Chronic Fatigue and Weakness
One of the most frequent and obvious signs of anemia is persistent tiredness. It's more than being exhausted after a long day — it's an all-encompassing feeling of fatigue that resting can't cure. Because your body isn't receiving the oxygen it needs, your muscles and organs need to work that much harder, leaving you drained and weak.

Pale or Yellowish Skin
A decrease in red blood cells usually leads to noticeable changes in color of the skin. Pale skin, particularly of the face, lips, inside eyelids, or nails, can indicate anemia. Yellowish coloration (jaundice) can occur in some forms of anemia, like hemolytic anemia. These changes are due to the body not producing sufficient red cells or destroying them too rapidly.
Shortness of Breath
If you are getting easily winded from everyday tasks such as walking, going upstairs, or doing chores, it could be a warning sign. Since your blood has less oxygen when you are anemic, your lungs must strain to provide a sufficient amount of oxygen to the body, which causes shortness of breath even with minor effort.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Dizzy or fainting, particularly upon standing up fast, may be an indication that the brain is not receiving proper oxygen. This symptom, usually accompanied by headaches or blurred vision, occurs in moderate to severe anemia and should not be ignored.
Cold Hands and Feet
Anemia-induced poor circulation may result in cold hands and feet. When your hands and feet tend to get cold too frequently, even in warm surroundings, it may be because of inadequate oxygen supply to those areas.
Heart Palpitations
Your heart rate may increase or become irregular to make up for the deficiency of oxygen in your blood. This may feel like skipping beats, pounding, or fluttering. If left untreated, anemia in the long term will cause or aggravate conditions of the heart such as an enlarged heart or heart failure.
Chest Pain
Chest pain is an alarming symptom that must never be overlooked. In individuals with advanced anemia, the heart cannot pump a sufficient amount of blood, particularly during exercise. It can cause chest pain or pressure and demands immediate treatment.
Don't Ignore the Warning Signs
Although anemia can be treated, neglecting its symptoms may result in complications that can impact your quality of life and overall well-being. If you're showing signs of these, it is crucial to see a healthcare professional. A diagnosis of anemia can be verified by a simple blood test, and treatment can consist of dietary modifications, supplements, or the treatment of underlying conditions. Getting early detection and proper treatment can make you feel better, healthier, and more energetic.
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