Information in simple English

What is anemia?

Anemia or erythrocytopenia is a disease in which the human body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to body organs. Anemic refers to a person who has developed anemia.

Anemia can be mild or severe, and it can last for a short period or for a long period. 

Treatments for anemia range from taking supplements to having medical procedures and eating a healthy and diverse diet.

What are the many forms of anaemia?

  • Aplastic anemia: body ceases to create enough red blood cells.
  • Iron deficiency anemia
  • Sickle cell anemia: an inherited abnormality of the red blood cells 
  • Thalassemia: destruction and weakening of red blood cells
  • Pernicious anemia: due to vitamin B12 deficiency

How can one know if has anemia?

Anemia symptoms vary, depending upon the cause and severity of anemia, and sometimes one might have any manifestations. 

Symptoms include:

  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Pale and yellowish skin
  • Irregular heartbeats
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Stiff hand and feet
  • Headaches
  • Chest pain

What may cause anemia?

  • bleeding
  • reduced synthesis of red blood cells
  • increased red blood cell disintegration