Understanding Anemia: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Treat It

 Have you ever felt exhausted, weak, or dizzy for no apparent reason? These could be signs of anemia disease. This is a condition that strikes several people across the globe. But how do you manage it? The first step is understanding the basics and taking one step at a time.

We’ll break down what anemia is, its symptoms, causes, and how to treat it. 

Let’s dive in.

What Is Anemia?

This is a condition where your body lacks enough red blood cells or hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is responsible for distributing oxygen to your organs and tissues. 

This means that if you don't have enough hemoglobin, then your body doesn't get the oxygen it needs to function. This can make you feel tired and weak, and in more severe cases, it can lead to more serious health issues.

Symptoms of Anemia

Anemia symptoms can be different from one person to the next. This depends on how severe the condition is. However, there are common signs of anemia to look out for. These are;

• Feeling unusually tired, even after a good night's rest.

• A sense of physical weakness that makes everyday tasks harder.

• Your skin may appear lighter than usual, especially on your face, hands, and nails.

• Feeling lightheaded or faint, especially when standing up quickly.

• You may feel out of breath more efficiently, even after light activities.

• Experiencing frequent headaches without an apparent cause.

If you or someone you love displays one or more of these signs, it's time to visit a doctor.

What Causes Anemia?

There are several causes of. Knowing them can help you know exactly how to avoid or treat it. Let's look at some common causes below:

• Lacking iron in your diet

• Insufficient B12 or folate in your system 

• Suppose you have chronic diseases like cancer, kidney disease, or rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions can interfere with red blood cell production.

• If you have lost a lot of blood in an accident or surgery.

• If you've inherited the condition (maybe sickle cell) from a family member.

Is Anemia a Common Disease?

Yes, it is!

Anemia doesn't spare anyone. We are talking—people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. However, it mainly affects women, especially the time they are bearing children, and, of course, people with chronic health issues. Anemia is also more common in older adults as the body’s ability to absorb nutrients decreases with age.

How Is Anemia Treated?

Treatment of anemia depends on what the cause of your anemia is. Some treatments work better than others. Here are 10 of the best.

• Diet: You might be able to increase your iron levels by eating more foods that are high in minerals. A good diet for anemia includes spinach (gasp), red meat, beans, and fortified cereals. Foods that are high in vitamin C also aid the body to absorb iron better.

• Supplements: Your doctor may suggest iron supplements or B12 and folate vitamins.

• Medications: Rarely, you may need medicines to help your body make more red blood cells.

• Treatment of the underlying condition — If anemia results from cancer or kidney disease, for example, this sense may have more to do with treating the basic problem and is likely to improve your hemoglobin level as a side effect.

• Blood transfusions: In severe cases, a blood transfusion may be needed to increase red cell counts rapidly.

Can You Fix Anemia by Yourself?

Some habits and lifestyle (like having a diet to help anemia) changes can help relieve anemia. However, it's important to get a formal diagnosis from a health professional. This way, you'll know exactly what's causing your anemia, if you need medicine, or if lifestyle changes are enough.

Anemia can be linked to more serious health problems, so treating it on your own with anemia nutrition might not be enough. Your doctor will talk to you about the right way to handle your specific case.

Conclusion

Dealing with anemia is not a walk in the park. It can take a toll on your health and can be overwhelming. This is why knowing a special diet for anemia or having an anemia food plan is vital. If the condition worsens, ask for help.

At Timetobetter, our experts are ready to make your life easier. Grab your phone and book an appointment with us. Take the first step towards bettering yourself!!