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Anemia - Low Red Blood Cells or Hemoglobin

A condition characterized by insufficient healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry adequate oxygen to tissues.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

Overview

Anemia occurs when you don't have enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin (the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells) to deliver adequate oxygen to your body's tissues. This leads to fatigue and weakness as organs don't receive sufficient oxygen.

There are many types of anemia with different causes: iron deficiency (most common), vitamin B12 deficiency, folate deficiency, chronic disease, hemolytic anemia (red blood cell destruction), and bone marrow disorders.

Anemia affects approximately 25% of the global population, with iron deficiency anemia being the most prevalent nutritional deficiency worldwide. Women of reproductive age, pregnant women, and people with chronic conditions are at highest risk.

Common Symptoms

  • •Fatigue and weakness
  • •Pale skin, gums, and nail beds
  • •Shortness of breath, especially with exertion
  • •Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • •Cold hands and feet
  • •Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • •Headaches
  • •Chest pain
  • •Brittle nails
  • •Unusual cravings (pica) for ice, dirt, or starch
  • •Poor concentration
  • •Restless legs syndrome

Key Blood Markers

Hemoglobin

Low (<120 g/L women, <130 g/L men)

The primary diagnostic marker - measures the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells

Ferritin

Often low (<30 μg/L) in iron deficiency

Measures iron storage - low ferritin indicates iron deficiency, the most common cause of anemia

Serum Iron

Usually low in iron deficiency

Measures circulating iron - helps confirm iron deficiency when low

Vitamin B12

Low if B12 deficiency anemia

Low B12 causes macrocytic (large cell) anemia and neurological symptoms

Mean Corpuscular Volume

Low (iron deficiency) or high (B12/folate deficiency)

Red blood cell size helps classify anemia type

Frequently Asked Questions

What hemoglobin level indicates anemia?
Anemia is typically defined as hemoglobin below 120 g/L (12 g/dL) for women and below 130 g/L (13 g/dL) for men. However, symptoms can occur at higher levels for some people, especially if the decline was rapid.
How quickly can anemia be corrected?
With iron supplementation, hemoglobin typically rises 10-20 g/L per month. Full correction takes 2-4 months, and iron stores need 3-6 months more to replenish. B12 deficiency anemia responds within days to weeks of treatment.
Can you have iron deficiency without anemia?
Yes! Iron deficiency without anemia (low ferritin with normal hemoglobin) is very common and can cause fatigue, hair loss, and cognitive issues. This stage often precedes anemia and should be treated.
Why do women get anemia more often?
Women have higher iron requirements due to menstrual blood loss. Heavy periods significantly increase risk. Pregnancy also depletes iron stores. Women need about 18mg of iron daily compared to 8mg for men.

Quick Facts

  • Key Markers:5
  • Common Symptoms:12

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