Key Points

• Anemia is a condition in which a person’s blood has a lower than normal number of red blood cells (RBCs), or the RBCs don’t have enough hemoglobin. Without enough RBCs or hemoglobin, the blood does not carry enough oxygen to the rest of the body.
• Anemia is caused by blood loss, lower than normal levels of RBC production, or higher than normal rates of RBC destruction.
• The lack of oxygen causes people with anemia to feel tired and weak. Other symptoms of anemia include shortness of breath, dizziness, fast or irregular heartbeat, headache, coldness in the limbs, pale or yellow skin, and chest pain.
• Anemia is a common condition affecting more than 3 million people in the United States. Women and people with chronic diseases are at greater risk for anemia. People who have symptoms of anemia should see their doctor to diagnose its cause and severity and to develop an effective treatment plan.
• Anemia is diagnosed using a person’s medical and family history, a physical exam, and tests. A complete blood count often is used to confirm a diagnosis of anemia. Additional tests may be needed to determine the cause and severity of anemia so that an effective treatment can be prescribed.
• Anemia can often be treated and/or controlled. Treatment may lead to benefits such as increased energy and activity levels, improved quality of life, and longer life.
• Some types of anemia may be severe, long lasting, and life threatening if not diagnosed and treated. The lack of oxygen in the body can damage organs. Anemia can harm the heart, which works harder to make up for the lack of blood cells or hemoglobin.
• Many types of anemia can be treated effectively with diet supplements that increase the level of iron and its absorption into the blood.
• Some forms of anemia can be prevented by a healthy diet rich in the vitamins and minerals, especially iron, that are needed to produce RBCs and hemoglobin.
• Some types of anemia are inherited and can’t be prevented. If you have a form of hereditary anemia, it is important that you discuss your personal and family history with your doctor so that timely treatment can begin.