Oak Valley Health’s patient education pages share the skills, knowledge, and habits patients and families need to know to cope with a daily health issue. We hope this information can influence patient behaviour to improve health outcomes and provide you with a sense of control and autonomy.
Learn more about the risks, causes, and treatment of anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the blood contains insufficient red blood cells or hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-carrying protein found in red blood cells. When you don’t have enough red blood cells or hemoglobin, your body does not get enough oxygen and your organs may not function properly. As a result, you may experience extreme fatigue or other issues.
Excessive bleeding (inside or outside the body)
Bleeding from intestine or heavy menstrual periods (females)
Chronic kidney, thyroid and liver disease
Bone marrow or blood disorder
Cancer and cancer treatments
HIV/AIDS
Infections
Medications
Autoimmune diseases
Menstruating or pregnant
Chronic medical conditions
You are over the age of 65
Feeling weak
Dizziness
Headache, as well as difficulty concentrating and sleeping
Irregular or faster-than-normal heartbeats
Shortness of breath, particularly during exercise
Cold hands and feet, as well as pale skin, lips, and nails
Nausea and indigestion
Treatment is dependent on the underlying cause
If there are nutritional deficiencies then iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid supplementation can help
In cases of severe anemia, blood transfusions may be necessary
