Today we will discuss one of the most common deficiencies affecting women known as Anaemia. It easily goes undetected in many people. Read along for causes, symptoms and treatment options.
What is Anaemia?
Anaemia is a condition where there is a decrease in Red Blood Cells(RBC) which is necessary to carry oxygen to the body or if Haemoglobin is below the normal level.
So how do I know if am I Anaemic?
Symptoms of Anaemia:
- Tired/Fatigue.
- Palpitations(Increased heart beat)
- Shortness of breath.
- Hair Loss.
- Pale skin.
- Dizziness
- Head ache.
- Cold hand and feet.
- Dry nails.
- Chest Pain.
- Lack of energy/Weakness.
- Loss of appetite.
- Lack of concentration.
What causes Anaemia?
Causes of Anaemia:
- Hereditary.
- Lack of Iron/Nutritional Deficiency.
- Pregnancy.
- Heavy Menstrual Periods.
- Vitamin Deficiency.
- Bone Marrow Disease.
- Poor Diet.
- Frequent Blood Donation.
- Lack of RBC production in the body.
- Defective RBC like Sickle Cell.
- Certain health conditions like Cancer etc.
- Certain medicines.
Diagnosis:
- Physical examination.
- Complete Blood Profile Test.
Cost:Rs 1500-2000
Treatment options:
- Iron,Vitamins and Minerals Supplements.
- Antibiotics.
- Injections to increase RBC production.
- Blood Transfusion.
- Oxygen Therapy.
- Rich Diet.
- Surgeries to prevent bleeding.
Can Anaemia be prevented?
Well the answer is yes!Always Prevention is better than Cure.Anaemia is primarily due to Iron deficiency.
Diet plays a very important role. A diet rich in Vitamin B12,Folic Acid,Iron,Vitamin C like lentils,leafy green vegetables,citrus fruits,beans,dried fruits,whole grains etc can help prevent Anaemia and most of the deficiencies.
Final Verdict:
A few years back,I was diagnosed with borderline Anaemia. I did see symptoms like Tiredness,Dizziness,Palpitations.My Doctor advised me to follow a good diet. I was not put on any supplements because it was just 0.5 below normal level.After 2 months I tested again to find that I was no longer Anaemic and my RBC count has improved too.Still Anaemia is something not to be neglected.If you do see any of the above symptoms,consult your doctor and get treated.
Image Credits:ansel edwards photography@flickr