Anaemia Symptoms: Recognising the Signs and Seeking Help
Anaemia is one of the most common blood disorders worldwide, affecting individuals of all ages and genders. Yet, its symptoms often go unnoticed until they become severe. Recognising the early warning signs of anaemia can make all the difference in preventing long-term health complications.
In this article, we explore the major symptoms of anaemia, what causes it, who is at risk, and how to manage and treat the condition effectively.
What is Anaemia?
Anaemia is a condition where your body doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin to carry adequate oxygen to your tissues. This lack of oxygen leads to a range of physical symptoms and may affect daily functioning if left untreated.
Common Symptoms of Anaemia
Early detection is crucial. Here are some tell-tale signs of anaemia to watch out for:
- Fatigue: One of the most common symptoms. Individuals with anaemia often feel tired, weak, or lacking energy, even after a full night’s rest.
- Pale or yellowish skin: A lack of red blood cells can cause a noticeable change in skin tone.
- Shortness of breath: You may find yourself gasping or feeling breathless, especially during physical activity.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness: Reduced oxygen to the brain can cause these sensations.
- Cold hands and feet: Poor circulation is a common result of anaemia.
- Chest pain or rapid heartbeat: Severe anaemia puts extra strain on the heart, causing palpitations or chest discomfort.
- Headaches: Caused by insufficient oxygen reaching the brain.
- Brittle nails and hair loss: Physical signs of nutritional deficiency contributing to anaemia.
Types of Anaemia
There are several types of anaemia, each with different causes and implications:
- Iron-deficiency anaemia: Caused by a lack of iron in the body, often due to poor diet, blood loss, or pregnancy.
- Vitamin-deficiency anaemia: Caused by low levels of vitamin B12 or folate.
- Aplastic anaemia: A rare condition where the body stops producing enough red blood cells.
- Haemolytic anaemia: Where red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body can produce them.
- Sickle cell anaemia: A genetic condition that alters the shape of red blood cells, impairing their function.
What Causes Anaemia?
The root cause of anaemia varies depending on the type, but here are the most common contributing factors:
- Poor nutrition lacking in iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12
- Chronic illnesses like kidney disease, cancer, or inflammatory disorders
- Blood loss from heavy periods, ulcers, or surgery
- Genetic conditions such as sickle cell disease or thalassemia
- Pregnancy, due to increased demand for iron and folate
Who is Most at Risk?
While anaemia can affect anyone, certain groups are more vulnerable:
- Women of childbearing age: Due to menstruation and pregnancy