Anemia: What You Should Know
Feeling unusually tired or weak?
Anemia may be one possible cause. The good news: anemia is common, treatable, and manageable once identified.
What Is Anemia?
Anemia occurs when your body does not have enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen throughout the body. Hemoglobin acts like an “oxygen delivery system,” bringing oxygen to your organs, muscles, and tissues.
When oxygen delivery is reduced, your body may not have the energy it needs to function at its best.
Anemia can affect people of all ages and backgrounds and may be linked to nutrition, chronic illness, blood loss, or absorption problems.
Common Signs & Symptoms
Not everyone experiences symptoms, but common signs may include:
- Persistent fatigue or low energy
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath with activity
- Pale skin
- Cold hands or feet
- Headaches
- Feeling weak or easily exhausted
⚠️ Important: Some people have no symptoms at all. Blood testing is the only way to confirm anemia.
Possible Causes of Anemia
Anemia can develop for many reasons, including:
- Low iron levels (most common cause)
- Poor absorption of nutrients, such as iron, vitamin B12, or folate
- Chronic inflammation or digestive conditions that interfere with nutrient absorption
- Blood loss, including from the gastrointestinal tract or heavy menstrual bleeding
- Certain medications
- Chronic medical conditions
Understanding the cause is essential for choosing the right treatment.
How Is Anemia Diagnosed?
Anemia is typically diagnosed with simple blood tests ordered by your healthcare provider. These tests can:
- Confirm whether anemia is present
- Measure iron levels, vitamin B12, and folate
- Help identify the underlying cause
Early testing allows for earlier treatment and better outcomes.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of anemia and may include:
- Iron supplementation (oral or intravenous)
- Vitamin B12 or folic acid supplements
- Dietary changes to improve nutrient intake
- Managing underlying medical conditions
- Medication adjustments, if needed
- Blood transfusions (in severe cases)
Your provider will tailor treatment to your specific needs.
Nutrition Tips That May Help*
Depending on the type of anemia, your care team may recommend foods rich in:
- Iron: lean meats, beans, lentils, fortified cereals
- Vitamin B12: fish, eggs, dairy, fortified foods
- Folate: leafy greens, citrus fruits, legumes
*Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance before starting supplements or making dietary changes.
Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider
You may want to ask:
- Could my symptoms be related to anemia?
- What type of anemia do I have?
- What is causing my anemia?
- What treatment is best for me?
- How long will treatment take to improve symptoms?
- Do I need follow-up testing or specialist care?
Writing questions down ahead of appointments can be helpful.
When to Seek Medical Care
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Ongoing fatigue that interferes with daily life
- Worsening shortness of breath
- Dizziness, fainting, or chest discomfort
- Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.
Prompt evaluation can prevent complications.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider with questions or concerns about your health.
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⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this resource is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual needs vary based on medical history, medications, allergies, and overall health status.
Before making any changes to your diet, starting any new supplements, trying new foods, modifying portion sizes, or following any nutrition/lifestyle recommendations, please consult your physician, registered dietitian, or other qualified healthcare provider. If you have diabetes, kidney disease, gastrointestinal conditions, food intolerances, or other chronic health concerns, discussing dietary/lifestyles changes with your healthcare team is especially important.