21 Signs of Anemia

Iron is essential for our bodies to produce red blood cells that transport hemoglobin throughout our system. A deficiency in healthy red blood cells can lead to anemia, a prevalent blood disorder.

The symptoms of anemia tend to be subtle and indistinct, making it difficult to recognize. In cases of mild anemia, there might not be any noticeable signs at all.

However, when anemia develops rapidly or becomes more severe, it can manifest in a variety of general symptoms.

Persistent Fatigue

A lack of oxygen-rich blood can lead to significant fatigue, often the earliest and most common sign of anemia. Anemia-related fatigue is characterized by an overwhelming sense of tiredness that impacts overall quality of life.

Individuals may notice a sudden, unexplained drop in energy levels that lingers all day, interfering with their ability to complete everyday tasks. Importantly, this symptom can emerge even when the person is consistently getting a sufficient amount of high-quality sleep.

Increased Heart Rate

Anemia puts a strain on the cardiovascular system, as a lack of red blood cells or hemoglobin hampers the transport of oxygen to vital organs and tissues. When the delivery of oxygen from the lungs is insufficient, it can significantly affect the heart and other bodily tissues.

A person with anemia may notice an increased heart rate, as their heart has to work harder to circulate oxygenated blood throughout the body. This elevated heartbeat is particularly noticeable after exercise or other physical exertion.

Unusual Paleness

If you notice that the tissue lining your eyelids (the mucous membranes) inside your lower lashes appears pale, this could indicate a deficiency in hemoglobin or red blood cells.

Anemia can also cause paleness in the face, palms, and nail beds. It’s important not to overlook an otherwise unexplained lack of color in the skin, as it may be a sign of anemia.

Odd Cravings

Iron-deficiency anemia can lead to unusual cravings for substances like ice, clay, paper, and soil, a phenomenon medically known as pica. The underlying cause of these cravings remains unclear.

However, individuals with anemia may experience a feeling of mental alertness, akin to drinking coffee, when they consume ice.

Difficulty Breathing

Individuals suffering from anemia often experience an inadequate supply of oxygen-rich blood to their body’s organs, which can result in an elevated heart rate and shortness of breath.

This issue arises when the blood struggles to deliver sufficient oxygen to the tissues that require it. If you find yourself struggling to catch your breath after performing simple exercises, such as climbing a flight of stairs, it could be a sign of anemia.

Frequent Headaches

Individuals suffering from anemia may experience an increased frequency of migraines and tension headaches. If these headaches persist despite rest and treatment, it’s important to seek medical attention.

This symptom can be particularly pronounced after physical exertion, as anemia results in a lack of oxygen-rich blood circulating throughout the body.

Feeling Dizzy

Dizziness or lightheadedness is a prevalent symptom of anemia, but it can also be associated with other health issues. Vertigo, which is the sensation of oneself or the surroundings spinning, can stem from disruptions in the inner ear and brain.

Trouble Sleeping

Individuals suffering from anemia often struggle with insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, or other sleep disruptions. While insomnia is not exclusive to anemia, it is a prevalent symptom among those affected by the condition.

Research has demonstrated that sleep quality significantly improves when individuals with iron-deficiency anemia start receiving iron therapy.

Constant Anxiety

Individuals with anemia may experience anxiety, as the condition can cause an increased heart rate, and heightened palpitations can lead to feelings of anxiousness.

If stress seems to worsen for no apparent reason and is accompanied by other symptoms of anemia, it’s important to consider the possibility of an iron or vitamin deficiency.

Excessive Menstrual Bleeding

Anemia is often caused by blood loss, with uterine fibroids being a common culprit in women. These non-cancerous tumors in the uterus can cause significant and painful menstrual bleeding, leading to iron-deficiency anemia.

Heavy menstrual bleeding not only depletes the body’s iron stores and increases the risk of developing iron-deficiency anemia, but it can also serve as an early warning sign of the condition. It is crucial to be aware of these symptoms and seek medical advice when needed.

Trouble Focusing

A reduced ability to produce hemoglobin can impact red blood cell production, consequently impairing the oxygen supply to the brain.

This, in turn, can influence mood and the ability to concentrate. Individuals experiencing this symptom may benefit from an increased intake of nutrients, such as iron and vitamins, which aid in hemoglobin production.

Numbness or Tingling Sensations

A deficiency in vitamin B12, either due to insufficient intake or poor absorption, can cause pernicious anemia and nerve damage.

The nerve damage often manifests as a tingling sensation, coldness, or numbness, particularly in the hands or feet. This symptom is especially prevalent in cases of vitamin B12 deficiency.

Restless Leg Syndrome

Individuals suffering from iron-deficiency anemia may also experience restless leg syndrome (RLS), a disorder characterized by an overwhelming urge to move the legs, often accompanied by unusual or uncomfortable sensations.

While RLS is not exclusive to anemia, its presence can make sleeping difficult, prompting doctors to test for iron-deficient anemia in patients exhibiting these symptoms.

Frequent Leg Cramps

Individuals suffering from severe anemia often experience leg cramps, particularly during physical activity. Medical experts attribute this symptom to the reduced oxygen supply reaching the extremities while exercising, making it a noticeable sign of anemia.

Hair Thinning or Loss

Hair loss can be a potential sign of iron deficiency, particularly when the decrease in iron levels is significant enough to cause anemia.

While it’s normal for individuals to lose some hair – with the average adult shedding around 100 strands daily – excessive hair loss that leads to noticeable thinning or bald spots should be assessed by a medical professional.

Dark, Tarry Stools

Black, tarry stools may be a sign of internal bleeding within the esophagus, stomach, or intestines, or in some instances, bleeding from the rectum. Since bleeding is one of the leading causes of anemia, a change in the color or appearance of your stools could indicate a serious underlying health issue contributing to anemia.

It’s crucial not to overlook any changes in bowel habits, as they can be significant indicators of a problem. In severe cases, stomach or colon cancer may even be responsible for this symptom.

Weak, Brittle Nails

While thin and brittle nails can be a natural part of aging, they may also signal a nutritional deficiency.

If your nails are cracking and splitting without any clear cause, it could indicate anemia brought on by iron deficiency. In such cases, it’s important to seek medical attention to address the issue and maintain overall health.

Complications During Pregnancy

Pregnant women frequently experience iron deficiency, which, if left untreated, can result in anemia. This condition not only increases the risk of delivering a low birth weight baby or facing premature delivery but also makes it more challenging to supply oxygen to the mother’s body, the placenta, and the developing baby.

Besides iron deficiency, other causes of anemia during pregnancy include folate and vitamin B12 deficiency. Public health experts urge expectant mothers to monitor their nutrient levels to avoid complications.

Changes in Tongue Appearance

Anemia can lead to noticeable changes in the tongue’s appearance, such as pain and swelling, a condition known as glossitis. In some instances, these symptoms can make eating difficult.

Additionally, anemia may cause small, painful cracks to develop on the sides of the mouth.

Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)

Research indicates a link between hypothyroidism, or reduced thyroid function, and anemia. Typical symptoms of an underactive thyroid consist of decreased energy levels, cold sensitivity, and unexplained weight gain. If someone exhibits these signs, a doctor might test them for anemia as well.

Chest Discomfort or Pain

Severe anemia significantly impairs the body’s capacity to supply oxygen-rich blood to vital organs, such as the heart and brain. This can result in chest discomfort or pain, known as angina, which is specifically linked to the heart.

Diminished blood flow to the heart due to severe anemia can cause angina and even lead to a heart attack. This is more prevalent in individuals with severe anemia and those who already have existing heart disease or other medical issues.