Common Signs and Symptoms of Anemia
Severe loss of healthy red blood cells is a leading cause of anemia. People that are diagnosed with anemia are said to be anemic, they feel more lethargic to perform simple mundane tasks. This is because their organs do not get enough oxygen supply to function properly. Symptoms of anemia vary according to the type and severity of the condition. The most common symptoms of anemia are as follows:
Fatigue
Unusual tiredness or fatigue, even after performing not-so-difficult tasks, is a common sign of anemia. This happens because of low hemoglobin count that supplies oxygen to the body. Due to the poor supply of oxygen, the body and the heart have to work harder to function, making you feel tired and less energized. Fatigue can make concentration waver, resulting in low productivity, and cause weakness too.
Paleness
If you have pale skin or the inside layer of your lower eyelids have become pale recently, then it is a telltale sign of anemia. When hemoglobin in your body reduces, the skin also loses its healthy pink color. Paleness, however, is not restricted only to the face. It can occur all over the body or in particular areas like gums, inside of lips or nails.
Shortness of breath
With the reduction of red blood cells, the oxygen level lowers too in the body. Since supply is low, it leads to shortness in breath, which is another most common symptom of anemia. If climbing a few stairs, simple exercises, or a brisk walk down to the grocery store is causing severe breathing problems, anemia is to blame.
Dizziness
Anemia can result in dizziness combined with mild to moderate headaches too. This happens due to the shortage of red blood cells and oxygen as well. Blood vessels present in the brain can swell, ultimately leading to headaches and dizziness. Dizziness can be caused because of a number of reasons, but if you have recurrent episodes, it’s best to check with your doctor.
Unusual heart palpitations
Irregular heartbeats that are quite apparent and noticeable is a common sign of anemia. Due to low levels of hemoglobin, red blood cells, and oxygen, the heart beats fast to make up for the losses. In some cases, this sign can result in an enlarged heart or heart failure. But this occurrence is rare and often because of a long history of untreated anemia.
Sore tongue
If your tongue appears swollen, sore, inflamed, pale, or unusually smooth, it may be because of iron deficiency caused by anemia. When myoglobin, a protein in the red blood cells that supports tongue muscles, reduces drastically, your tongue can develop cracks, ulcers and cause the mouth to dry quickly. If your tongue or insides of your mouth bruises easily, do consult your doctor.