Despite its prevalence, many are unaware of the warning signs of anemia, a common yet insidious condition. Iron is vital for producing healthy red blood cells, and without it, our bodies struggle to create these cells. This can lead to complications from blood loss, such as from injuries or menstrual cycles.
Anemia can significantly disrupt daily life, even without blood loss. "One of the leading causes of iron deficiency is bleeding, as it results in the loss of iron-rich red blood cells," explains Dr. Allen Nissenson, a professor of medicine.
Recognizing anemia's signs can give individuals an advantage, ensuring early diagnosis and treatment to avoid further issues.
TEN WARNING SIGNS OF ANEMIA:
1. FATIGUE
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute states that fatigue is the most common symptom of anemia. It arises when there aren't enough red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the body.
Fatigue can stem from various factors, including stress, illness, or other conditions. However, anemic individuals experience a distinct, persistent exhaustion that significantly impacts their life quality. If you're constantly tired and sluggish, anemia could be responsible, warranting a medical consultation.
2. PALE MEMBRANES
The mucous membranes over your eyes can indicate if someone is suffering from anemia. To check, observe the waterline above your lower eyelashes. This area, rich in veins, should be circulating healthy blood. If the waterline appears extremely pale, it could indicate a lack of blood, suggesting anemia.
3. TROUBLE CATCHING YOUR BREATH
"Individuals with anemia typically feel comfortable while resting. However, they may experience shortness of breath during physical activities as the blood fails to supply the necessary oxygen. As a result, they breathe rapidly and deeply in an attempt to increase their blood oxygen levels," explains Noah Lechtzin, MD, MHS, Associate Professor of Medicine and Director.
Thus, if climbing a few stairs leaves you winded, or if you struggle to catch your breath after mild exertion, it could signify that your body isn't receiving the oxygen it needs from healthy red blood cells. Dizziness and lightheadedness are also indicators of insufficient oxygen in your blood cells.
4. ANXIETY
For those with pre-existing anxiety disorders, it may be difficult to determine if this is relevant. However, if you've recently started experiencing symptoms like a racing heart, anemia could be responsible. This occurs because your blood is working harder and faster to deliver oxygen, leading to feelings of a racing heart without accompanying anxious thoughts.
5. GOING NUMB
Your body prioritizes blood flow to vital organs, so in times of insufficient healthy blood, it may divert blood from your arms, hands, legs, and feet to maintain an adequate supply elsewhere. This can lead to numbness in these extremities.
6. HEADACHES
Occasional headaches are common and not usually indicative of anemia. However, if they occur frequently, alongside other symptoms, and are unresponsive to pain relievers, it's advisable to consult a doctor for anemia testing. Persistent headaches, especially when combined with other symptoms, may signal inadequate oxygen and blood supply.
7. HEAVY OR IRREGULAR PERIODS
In women, anemia can be caused by uterine fibroids in the uterine cavity, which often result in extremely painful and heavy menstrual periods. Women who experience irregular, excessively heavy bleeding, and intense cramps should consult a healthcare professional. Such symptoms may suggest the presence of iron-deficiency anemia.
8. TROUBLE CONCENTRATING
The term 'brain fog' is often used to describe the sensation of a cloud over one's thoughts. Individuals who find themselves struggling to organize their thoughts, concentrate, or recall information may be experiencing this condition. "Low iron levels can affect work performance, judgment, and focus," explains Maria Ricupero, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator.
9. HEART PALPITATIONS
Noticeable heartbeats may indicate iron-deficiency anemia.
A low hemoglobin level forces the heart to pump harder to transport oxygen, which can cause an irregular heartbeat or the sensation of a rapidly beating heart.
In extreme cases, this can result in an enlarged heart, heart murmur, or heart failure. Heart palpitations could also signal heart disease.
10. CHEST PAIN
In very severe cases of anemia, heart attacks can occur because the heart tissue acts as if its blood supply is compromised without a consistent flow of oxygen and hemoglobin.
Final thoughts...
Many of these symptoms can be worrisome or dismissed as minor issues without understanding their cause. Anemia affects hundreds of thousands and is more common than one might assume. Recognizing the signs is the first step; the next is to visit a doctor if you suspect anemia to get the correct tests and diagnosis, helping you return to good health.
Source: www.powerofpositivity.com
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