You are in Member Communities . Red blood cells contain a protein called hemoglobin, which carries oxygen that the blood delivers to the body s tissues.
Anemia is a depletion of the red blood cells or hemoglobin.
Anemia comes in many different forms with numerous causes. The causes are sometimes described in categories, such as excessive bleeding, destruction of red cells or problems in the red cell manufacturing process. Other types include pernicious anemia, sickle cell anemia, aplastic anemia, anemias caused by chronic diseases and more. Symptoms vary depending on the form of anemia, but they may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, bluish lips, shortness of breath, irritated or burning tongue, tingling hands and feet, weight loss, and mental symptoms, such as confusion, difficulty concentrating and depression. In children, iron deficiency anemia can impair mental and physical development.