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PharmEasy Blog

Health Risks Of Anaemia – Know The Different Signs & Symptoms

The fact that more than 2 billion people around the world suffer from anaemia may shock you. But did you know that this disorder is easily curable if it is identified in its early stages? Now you might be wondering how you can figure out if you have this disease and you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to help. Read all about the different signs, symptoms and types of anaemia, so that you know when it is the right time to see a doctor about it.

What is Anaemia?

Scientifically speaking, anaemia is a condition of the body where the Red Blood Cells (RBCs) are either inadequate in number or unhealthy (do not have enough haemoglobin in them). Haemoglobin is a crucial component of RBCs and carries oxygen to all the cells of the body. As a result, people with anaemia have low levels of oxygen throughout their bodies.

This condition can seriously hamper healthy body functioning since oxygen in the blood is critical to keeping your organs healthy. The good news is, anaemia triggers some distinct symptoms. To know if a person is anaemic, just look out for these signs and symptoms to facilitate early diagnosis and recovery. 

Signs and Symptoms of Anaemia

Since anaemia can happen to anyone and is not restricted to any sex or age group, it is best that everyone should monitor themselves regularly for the appearance of these primary signs and symptoms of anaemia:

• Unusual levels of fatigue
• Pale skin and nails (nails break easily)
• General weakness
• Unusually high irritability
• Constant headaches
• Cold hands and feet
• Sudden palpitations (rapid, strong, and/or irregular heartbeat)
• Frequent dizziness
• Mild to severe chest pain with physical exercise
• More than usual shortness of breath after exercising
• Loss of consciousness (severe anaemia)
• Delayed or irregular menstrual bleeding 
• Poor growth in children
• Complications during pregnancy (affects both mother and the baby)
• Cravings for soil, chalk, clay or ice

Types of Anaemia

To be able to better understand the significance and severity of these warning signs, you need to know what are the different types of anaemia. Based on the classification as per the causes, there can be as many as 8 to 9 different types of anaemia.  

Adults and children especially with severe anaemia may be at risk of developing complications that affect their heart or lungs. For example, you may develop tachycardia, which is an abnormally fast heartbeat, or heart failure, where the heart fails to pump enough blood around your body at the right pressure.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

1. Anaemia Due to the Destruction of RBCs

RBCs contain haemoglobin that is responsible for carrying oxygen. This oxygen is supplied to all parts of the body through the RBCs and when RBCs are destroyed, it leads to a severe lack of oxygenation in the body. Destruction of RBCs can happen because of many reasons, but 2 prominent reasons for it are:

2. Anaemia Due to Excess Bleeding

Anaemia is characterised by the loss of RBCs and this can be not only due to the destruction of RBCs but also the loss of blood. This can happen due to excessive blood loss during menstruation in women (Menorrhagia) or due to piles and internal bleeding in both men and women.

3. Anaemia Due to Nutritional Deficiencies

Certain micronutrients like Vitamin C are known to catalyse the absorption of iron in the body. When there is a dearth of minerals like Iron and vitamins like C, B9 and B12, this can also lead to anaemia. Such anaemia is usually called Pernicious and Iron Deficiency Anaemia.  

4. Anaemia Due to Drug Toxicity

It occurs when the body’s immune system responds to a particular medicine (or drug) and begins to attack the RBCs. This is also known as drug-induced autoimmune hemolytic anaemia. It results in the breakdown of RBCs (known as hemolysis) and therefore leads to anaemia.  

5. Anaemia Due to Worm Infestations

Anaemia can also occur as a result of hookworm infestation in the gut. Hookworms can reside inside the body (endoparasites) and leech off of your nutrition. However, this can cause internal bleeding which in turn often leads to anaemic conditions.

6. Anaemia Due to Bone Marrow Disorders

RBCs are made inside the red bone marrow and when your bone marrow fails to produce enough RBCs, this leads to anaemic conditions. This type of anaemia is often referred to as aplastic anaemia.  

7. Hereditary or Acquired Anaemia

There may be certain hereditary defects in your RBCs that could lead to the formation of abnormal haemoglobin. This type of haemoglobin reduces the lifespan of RBCs which means your RBCs are destroyed prematurely. Eg: sickle cell anaemia (the shape of RBC is like a sickle), thalassemia.

8. Anaemia Due to Other Diseases

Anaemic conditions may also occur as comorbidities with other diseases. For example, diseases like chronic inflammatory conditions, autoimmune disorders, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s Disease, etc may sometimes cause anaemia as well (mostly due to insufficient absorption of iron, B9 and B12 by the body).

9. Anaemia Due to Unknown Causes

In cases where no correctable causes for anaemia can be found. Although this condition is very rare, this type of anaemia (idiopathic anaemia) is still undergoing a lot of research and clinical testing.

Key Takeaways

• Anaemia is a curable condition where the RBCs are insufficient in number or inefficient in quality (do not have enough haemoglobin to oxygenate the entire body with).
• Anaemia has several evident as well as obscure signs and symptoms, meaning you will have to closely monitor these signs if you think you might be Anaemic.
• There are different types of anaemia based on causes.
• These include – Blood loss anaemia, hemolytic anaemias, vitamin deficiency anaemia, iron deficiency anaemia, drug-induced immune hemolytic anaemia, aplastic anaemia, sickle cell anaemia and many others.

Also Read: What Causes High Red Blood Cell Count: Insights Into Hematological Disorders

Conclusion

With knowledge of all the possible signs and symptoms, you may now have some idea about when it is the right time to consult a doctor. Nevertheless, it is always safer to consult your nearest healthcare practitioner and follow the suggested treatment and dietary modifications. This will empower you with good health and keep save you from serious complications that may follow with untreated anaemia.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

Why An Iron-Rich Diet May Not Be Enough In Iron Deficiency Anaemia?

Should you be worried about iron deficiency? Well, iron deficiency can indeed trigger a bunch of health disorders. But the good news is, you don’t have to lose sleep over it! Why? Because iron deficiency can easily be cured with timely intervention. This means, with early detection and adhering to your doctor’s instructions, you will be able to overcome iron deficiency anaemia in no time and resume a perfectly healthy and active lifestyle.

What is Iron Deficiency Anaemia?

• Iron deficiency anaemia is the lack of an adequate number of healthy Red Blood Cells (RBCs) in the body.
• Iron deficiency anaemia also deprives RBCs of their capacity to carry oxygen to all the parts of the body.
• This happens because of the reduced production of a substance called haemoglobin (which is a component of RBCs). 
• While this deficiency is fully curable and does not last very long with proper treatment, it can prove fatal if ignored.

Studies have revealed that there are few foods and beverages that are high in nutrients but may hinder the absorption of iron by your body and result in iron deficiency in the body. The tannins found in tea, coffee, and wine block the absorption of iron by getting coupled with it and expelling it from the body. Wholegrains like bran include phytates and fibres that might hinder the absorption of minerals like iron. Due to its role in releasing iron from storage, vitamin A deficiency can result in iron insufficiency.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD

What are the Causes of Iron Deficiency Anaemia?

Iron Deficiency Anaemia might have several underlying causes but they can all be grouped under 3 broad categories.

1. Reduced Intake of Iron

• When you consume an insufficient amount of foods that are rich in iron, you may start developing symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia.  
• Having a low concentration of ‘iron enhancers’ like Vitamin C (in citrus fruits) can further reduce the body’s capacity to absorb the little iron that is available in your food.
• Iron deficiency anaemia can also be caused by increased intake of non-Haem iron and reduced intake of haem iron in your body (known as reduced bioavailability of iron).
• Iron deficiency anaemia can also occur during pregnancy if the woman is not able to fulfil the iron requirements of her growing baby, in which case, doctor’s recommend iron and folic acid supplements.
• Finally, iron deficiency anaemia is usually an illness that does not occur unprecedentedly but is sometimes the result of your body’s poor capability to store iron since childhood.  

2. Poor Absorption of Iron

• Increased intake of foods that are known as iron inhibitors (tea, coffee and some calcium-rich foods) before or during meals can hamper the absorption of dietary iron.
• Existing ailments like Celiac Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, some autoimmune conditions or even Crohn’s Disease can hinder the absorption of iron in your small intestine.  
• Since the small intestines are responsible for the absorption of dietary iron, removal of a part of it due to gastric bypass surgery can also reduce the absorption of iron.  
• Medications like proton pump inhibitors, which are used to lower the levels of stomach acid can negatively affect the absorption of iron into your body.

3. Excessive Loss of Blood

• Certain diseases like Peptic Ulcers, Hernia, Piles, Uterine Fibroids and Colon Polyps can cause internal bleeding that leads to reduced levels of iron in your body. 
• For women who have heavy menstrual cycles, excess blood loss can often lead to iron deficiency anaemia. 
• People undergoing dialysis for end-stage kidney failure may also lose a lot of blood leading to iron deficiency. Apart from this, medications for end-stage kidney failure have also been known to cause iron deficiency anaemia.
• In severe cases of worm infestation in the intestine (Heavy Ascariasis), the intestinal walls may become damaged and lead to internal bleeding.
• Some medications and medical conditions may increase your risk of internal bleeds.

In a few cases, even a diet rich in iron content may not be enough to curb iron deficiency in iron deficiency anaemia. One such case is the increased requirement for iron when one is expecting a baby or nursing. The body requires extra iron in such cases. If this increased need is not satisfied, iron deficiency may develop very fast.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Signs and Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anaemia

• Extreme fatigue
• Weakness
• Unusually pale skin
• Chest pain, fast heartbeat and/or even shortness of breath
• Headache, dizziness and/or lightheadedness
• Unusually cold hands and feet
• Inflammation or soreness of the tongue
• Uncharacteristically brittle nails
• Unusual cravings for inedible substances, like ice, starch or clay or soil
• Poor appetite, especially in infants and children
• Poor growth in children.

Management of Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Unfortunately, there are not many home remedies and self-management methods in the case of iron deficiency anaemia. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor beforehand. Your doctor may prescribe over-the-counter (OTC) iron supplements as well as Folic Acid supplements, as an addition to your daily diet.

Tips & Precautions of Taking Iron Supplements

Key Takeaways

• Iron deficiency anaemia is the lack of haemoglobin in RBCs leading to low oxygenation throughout the body.
• It can occur due to 3 broad causes – reduced intake of iron, lower absorption of dietary iron and excess internal bleeding.
• The signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia include – fatigue, exhaustion, shortness of breath, inflammation, pale skin, among several others.
• Since it cannot be self-diagnosed and managed at home, you should seek medical advice at the earliest. A general physician or haematologist can help.
• However, with the help of a few tips and precautions of taking iron supplements (prescribed by a doctor), iron deficiency anaemia can be cured.

Conclusion

With sufficient awareness regarding the signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia, you can recognise the warning signs at home and seek timely treatment. Since there is no specific age for this ailment, it is all the more important that you eat healthily and exercise regularly to prevent its onset in the first place.

Also Read: How to Increase Iron Levels Quickly: Effective Strategies Backed by Research

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

Anaemia In Pregnancy: All You Need To Know

A woman’s body and mind go through a plethora of changes during pregnancy.

From your mind trying to cope up with the unmatched pleasure of carrying a living being inside the womb and your body striving hard to get by with the turbulence of your pregnancy hormones and the physiological adaptations needed to sustain your baby- pregnancy, as someone rightly quoted is not a short-term diet but a long-term lifestyle change.

Amongst the various physiological, systemic and metabolic changes occurring during pregnancy, an increase in iron demands to sustain the growing fetus especially in the second half of the pregnancy is one of the most important ones.

Due to the increased demand for iron, there is always a physiological iron deficiency during pregnancy; however, when the haemoglobin concentration is 11gm/100 ml or less from the starting of the pregnancy, the lady is regarded as anaemic.

During pregnancy, the volume of blood increases. This means more iron and vitamins are needed to make more red blood cells. If you don’t have enough iron, it can cause anemia and problems to growing baby. Consult your doctor for iron and folic acid supplements during pregnancy.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Causes of Anaemia in Pregnancy Are:

1. The traditional Indian diet lacks iron and is insufficient by itself to fulfil the increased iron demands during pregnancy.
2. Women who have heavy periods before pregnancy is at increased risk of developing anaemia when pregnant.
3. Those with low haemoglobin concentration before pregnancy are also very likely to develop anaemia during pregnancy.
4. Multiple pregnancies when the pregnant woman is carrying two or more foetus inside her womb.
5. A woman who is pregnant soon after the birth of a child is at an increased risk of developing anaemia when pregnant.
6. Teenage pregnancies or pregnant women below the age of 21 are also at increased risk.

Also Read: What is Anterior Placenta: A Comprehensive Insight into Maternal Health

Symptoms of Anaemia in Pregnancy

1. Increased fatigue and weakness
2. Paleness of the skin
3. Shortness of breath on even mild exertion
4. Cold hands and feet
5. Feeling of giddiness
6. Irregular breathing
7. Increased heartbeats

Iron deficiency during the first trimester, has a more negative impact on fetal growth than anemia developing later in pregnancy, caution is always advised and consultation with gynaecologist is highly recommended.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

Complications

1. Premature births.
2. An increased frequency of infections.
3. Cardiac failure.
4. Even a little blood loss during childbirth can be lethal if anaemia is not controlled.
5. The baby may also suffer from low birth weight and even intra-uterine deaths.

Also Read: Implantation Symptoms: Evidence-Based Guide to Early Pregnancy Signs

Prevention

1. First of all, don’t panic as pregnancy-related anaemia can be easily controlled through optimal diet and proper medications.
2. Administration and proper intake of iron and folic acid tablets.
3. Increased intake of iron-rich foods like jaggery, whole wheat, figs, beans and green leafy vegetables.
4. Foods rich in iron such as apples, pear, pomegranate and dried fruits such as raisins and prunes should be consumed daily.
5. Vitamin C rich foods such as oranges, tomatoes, and kiwis should be included in your daily diet for the proper absorption of iron.
6. Use of iron utensils for cooking.
7. Treatment of any underlying infections such as malaria, bleeding piles and urinary tract infection.

Also, always keep in mind that your gynaecologist knows what the best for you and your baby is. So, it is necessary that you always consult your doctor before making any dietary changes.

Also read: Eating Right: Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.