Anemia: An Easy to Understand Guide

What is Anemia?

Anemia is a condition that occurs when not enough oxygen-carrying red blood cells, are being delivered to your body's cells and organs. People with anemia look worn out and have less energy for activities because their hearts are working harder to pump red blood cells around their bodies.

Anemia is not a disease and is easily treatable, and sometimes it’s triggered by other diseases. If you suspect you might be anemic, it's really important to be in touch with a medical professional. A blood test easily confirms whether you have anemia or not. Now, let's look at why you might develop anemia.



Why Would I Get Anemia?

Anemia also occurs when your body doesn't produce enough red blood cells, or there isn't enough hemoglobin in your red blood cells. Hemoglobin is an important protein, which transports oxygen from the lungs to other cells in your body.

If all these new scientific terms are confusing you it might be easier to imagine the blood in your body as a transport system, where the red blood cells are the vehicles and the oxygen is the passenger, who needs to go work on your cells and organs.

If you lose a lot of blood, or blood is being lost faster than new blood cells are being produced, you may become anemic. Women are more likely to develop anemia due to heavy menstruation, pregnancy or from bleeding after giving birth. Blood loss from trauma, surgery or internal bleeding caused by ulcers or other digestive disorders can also cause anemia.


Types of Anemia

There are several different kinds of anemia. The most common one is iron deficiency anemia, i.e. you have low levels of iron or are unable to absorb iron easily. Other nutritional deficiencies cause anemia such as vitamin B12 deficiency anemia or folic acid deficiencyanemia. In rare cases, anemia is caused by inherited blood diseases such as sickle cell anemia, Aplastic anemia, or Thalassemia.


How to Tell If You Have Anemia

Anemia isn't initially obvious. When you have mild to moderate anemia, you will feel weak, be fatigued and experience shortness of breath. If the condition is not detected early, more symptoms might develop such as a racing heartbeat, dizziness, headaches, ringing in the ears and restless leg syndrome. Additionally your skin and fingernails will look pale, and you might have increased hair loss. As mentioned before, the best way to tell if you are anemic is by getting a blood test.




Signs and Symptoms:

Mild Anemia:
Weakness
Fatigue
Shortness of breath



Moderate to Severe Anemia:
Rapid heartbeat
Dizziness
Headaches
Ringing in the ears
Restless leg syndrome
Hair loss
Pale skin


Additional Signs:
Pale or brittle fingernails
Cold hands and feet
Low body temperature
Sexual dysfunction
Cuts take longer to heal
Inability to concentrate




Treatment & Home Remedies

Iron Pills

Since the most common cause of anemia is low levels of iron, your doctor can prescribe iron pills, or you can buy supplements over the counter at a pharmacy. If one ingests too much iron, it can be toxic, and it is recommended you consult your doctor regarding the correct dosage for your age and weight.



Bananas, Honey, Almonds and Onions

The good news is that not only are these foods delicious, but they are also known for stimulating hemoglobin production. Start your day off by combining bananas, honey and almonds in oatmeal or with muesli for a nutritious breakfast.



Avoid Iron Blocking Foods

Certain foods need to be avoided close to meal times as they can prevent iron absorption.
Red wine, black and green tea, grapes, all heavy in tannins
Coffee, chocolate, and other caffeine laden foods
Milk and calcium products
Egg yolks, which contain the iron binding protein phosvitin
Soy products

Vitamin C

This super vitamin helps iron absorption. Vitamin C is found in many of nature's colorful fruits and vegetables and is particularly rich in oranges, strawberries, pomegranates or dates.



Eat Iron Rich Foods

Iron can also be obtained through your regular diet and making healthy food choices can only help. Here is a list of iron-rich foods, with choices for both meat lovers and vegetarians.

Meat-eaters' options:
Clams
Oysters
Fish
Red meat
Chicken liver

Vegetarian options:
Fortified dry cereal
Beets, lentils, and beans
Spinach, or other leafy green vegetables
Black molasses
Dried fruits such as raisins, currants, and prunes