Symptoms of Anemia
By: Peris Wangui
Tags: Diet, Health, Wellness, Lifestyle, People

Image by Narupon Promvichai from Pixabay

If you suspect your loved one is suffering from anemia but has no clue what to look for, here is an article for you.

Anemia is a sickness caused by lack of enough blood cells in the body. These cells are made by an important component called hemoglobin, which is produced in the bone marrow. When the production of these cells goes down, some organs fail to receive enough oxygen, and this can cause toxicity in the body. Anemia occurs in different forms, such as sickle cell, vitamin deficiency, and aplastic anemia.

Signs of anemia

Chest pain

Fatigue

Dizziness

Cold hands and feet

Shortness of breath

Irregular heartbeats

Pale or yellowish skin

It is a genetic form of anemia. This form is caused by having deformed red blood cells. As a result, they fail to function properly and die quickly. Instead of these cells having near to round shapes, they are sickle-shaped. This shape makes them not function properly and can cause vessel clogs.

Sickle cell anemia has no cure. However, the pain that accompanies it can be relieved so that one can enjoy a more comfortable life.

It is also called bone marrow aplasia. As we have seen, the bone marrow produces hemoglobin. In this form of anemia, it is not able to make enough of this component because it is damaged. Aplastic anemia can sometimes be hereditary but should not be confused with cancer of the blood.

When the body has insufficient amounts of certain vitamins, it gets affected by vitamin deficiency anemia. Such vitamins include B12, C, and folic acid. These vitamins are core in the production of hemoglobin, and when absent, the blood count in the body decreases. Other than lack of enough of these vitamins, the body may fail to absorb these nutrients even when taken as supplements or through healthy meals.

This form of anemia can be treated by having a diet rich in these vitamins. Berries and leafy vegetables are excellent sources. If your body cannot absorb these vitamins, a qualified doctor can give you treatment to help your body start absorbing them.

It is a blood disorder that is hereditary. The condition is often noted at a young age and can sometimes be severe. When severe, regular blood transfusions become necessary. In this form of anemia, gene mutation is the main problem. The mutation of the DNA gene causes the alpha and beta chains found in the hemoglobin to reduce.

Instead of having hemoglobin produced, alpha-thalassemia or beta-thalassemia chains are created. These chains affect blood production differently. In beta-thalassemia, the effect depends on the hemoglobin molecule affected. In alpha-thalassemia, the effect depends on the number of gene mutations inherited.

Thalassemia, like sickle cell, cannot be treated. However, blood transfusion helps in reducing its severity. Regular training and eating nutritious meals can help in reducing the pain that comes with this form of anemia.

Some forms of anemia cannot be detected until when it is too late. But, if you get any of these warning signs outlined here frequently, you should see your doctor to understand the source of your symptoms. Additionally, if you go to donate blood, and you are told you do not have the required minimum, it is prudent to see a doctor for a serious assessment. Receive medical attention at an early stage for a more fulfilling health.