The Silent Disease of Our Time: Beware of Anemia!

Anemia, commonly referred to as iron deficiency, is a condition characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood. It is especially prevalent among growing children, women, and the elderly. Various factors contribute to the development of anemia.

What is Anemia and What Causes It?

Anemia occurs when the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to tissues. Common causes include iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, certain rheumatic diseases, infections, leukemia, and cancers of internal organs.Penn Medicine+5Cleveland Clinic+5SELF+5

Symptoms of Anemia

Symptoms of anemia include:

• Fatigue and weakness

• Palpitations

• Hair loss

• Sleep disturbances

• Brittle nails

• Pale complexion

• Smooth tongue

• Flattened nails

• Cracks at the corners of the mouth

• Rapid heartbeat

• Heart murmurs

• Enlarged spleen and liver

• Skin rashes, bleeding spots, and bruisesHealth+1Vogue+1Glamour

Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Anemia

Vitamin B12 and iron are essential nutrients that must be obtained from the diet. Deficiencies often result from poor nutrition or absorption issues. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia and neurological disorders. It is most commonly seen in vegetarians. Previous stomach surgeries, gastrointestinal cancers, or diseases causing absorption defects can also lead to B12 deficiency.Glamour

Consequences of Untreated Anemia

If left untreated, anemia can lead to hypoxia, a condition where tissues receive insufficient oxygen. Prolonged iron deficiency anemia can cause heart enlargement and heart failure. The lungs may struggle, leading to shortness of breath.Reduced oxygen delivery affects all organs, including the brain and muscles, causing widespread pain, cramps, memory loss, mood disorders, and numbness in the hands and feet.

Treatment and Prevention of Anemia

Upon diagnosis, treatment should target the underlying cause. Anemia due to iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid deficiencies can be treated with supplements. However, identifying and addressing the root cause is crucial. In men or women without a history of heavy menstruation, gastrointestinal bleeding should be investigated through endoscopy and colonoscopy to rule out conditions like esophageal, stomach, or intestinal cancers.