Anemia is a health condition wherein an individual does not have sufficient healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to the tissues of the body. Having anemia may make an individual feel weak and tired, or they may suffer cognitive issues and muscle spasms and weakness. Anemia exists in many types, and each type of anemia has a distinct cause. Moreover, it could be severe or mild and long-term or short-term depending on the type.

Let’s take a look at its symptoms, causes, and types:

1. Symptoms of anemia

Listed below are some important symptoms of anemia. You must visit the doctor if you notice the following signs and symptoms:

• Headache
• Cold feet and hands
• Chest pain
• Light-headedness or dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeats
• Yellowish or pale skin
• Weakness
• Fatigue

In its initial stages, anemia is mild and is often undermined. However, the symptoms worsen with time.

2. Anemia causes

When the blood does not have sufficient red blood cells, anemia occurs. It can develop if:

• The red blood cells are destroyed by the body
• The red blood cells are lost at a quicker rate than the replacement rate
• The body is unable to make sufficient red blood cells

3. Types of anemia

• Vitamin deficiency anemia
  The body requires vitamin B-12 and folate to generate sufficient healthy red blood cells. A diet that lacks this, along with other important nutrients, can be the cause of reduced production of red blood cells. Also, there may be instances where people might consume sufficient vitamin B-12 but their bodies are unable to process it. This type of anemia is also referred to as pernicious anemia.

• Iron deficiency anemia  
  Iron deficiency anemia is quite a prominent type of anemia across the globe. Apart from vitamins, the body needs iron to generate sufficient red blood cells. As the name suggests, this type of anemia is caused due to a lack of iron in the body. The bone marrow requires iron to create hemoglobin. Without enough iron, the body is unable to generate sufficient hemoglobin for red blood cells. This condition usually develops in pregnant women. Iron deficiency anemia also occurs because of blood loss caused due to an ulcer, heavy menstrual bleeding, and regular consumption of certain over-the-counter pain relievers, particularly aspirin.

• Other types

The other types of anemia include:

• Aplastic anemia
• Anemia of chronic disease
• Anemias linked with bone marrow diseases
• Sickle cell anemia
• Hemolytic anemia

Always consult a doctor if you find yourself experiences any of the symptoms. Additionally, eating a well-balanced diet and drinking sufficient water can help keep this condition at bay effectively.