Anemia is a health condition where the body lacks healthy red blood cells (RBC) to carry sufficient oxygen to all its parts. When an individual has anemia, they might experience weakness. This condition has many different types, each with its own causes. Fortunately, various treatment options exist to manage the warning signs and symptoms, including lifestyle changes and healthy nutritional habits. Keep reading to learn more about anemia and its warning signs that necessitate treatment.

Top 6 warning signs of anemia

Fatigue
One of the most common and noticeable warning signs of anemia is fatigue. Here, one might experience a sudden lack of energy due to insufficient iron intake, which is needed to produce hemoglobin. When someone has anemia, the body cannot produce enough hemoglobin and distribute oxygen and other nutrients to different parts. In most cases, fatigue can also set in when vital organs and muscles receive insufficient oxygen.

Brittle nails and changes in skin color
Another noticeable sign of anemia is pale skin. It can result from a lack of hemoglobin or red blood cells (RBCs). So, when the body notices low levels of RBC, it automatically diverts blood to all its vital organs. It leads to pale skin or a pale complexion. If brittle nails accompany the pale skin, one must seek immediate medical attention. It can provide a clearer picture of the severity of the condition.

Ringing in the ears
Also known as tinnitus, this health issue is usually experienced as a ringing sensation in the ear. Although often ignored, this sensation is a definite warning sign of anemia. This happens when there is an increased blood flow to the jugular vein when the heart functions harder to carry oxygenated blood to the brain. When this passage of blood happens through the middle ear, it can result in ringing or other noise.

Heavy periods
Women who experience heavy blood flow during their menstrual period must take it as a warning sign of anemia or other blood disorders. In most cases, women are more susceptible to anemia as they experience blood loss every month beginning from menarche – the first time menstruation occurs. Moreover, the problem can grow exponentially if the lost iron isn’t replenished by nutrient-rich food or supplements.

Dry mouth
Usually, dry mouth indicates a deficiency of iron which can also result in anemia. Hence, if an individual experiences dry mouth or sores in and around the mouth, they must consider it a warning sign of anemia and seek a healthcare professional’s assistance immediately.

Frequent headaches
Headaches with an increased frequency can be one of the warning signs of anemia. When a patient has a blood disorder, the brain cannot receive sufficient oxygen, leading to a swelling in the arteries which can be incredibly painful. Additionally, the frequency of headaches can indicate a prolonged insufficient blood flow to the brain.

Hence, in addition to keeping an eye out for the warning signs of anemia, one must also eat foods rich in iron, such as spinach, shellfish, and pumpkin seeds, to counter iron deficiency.