Could you be anaemic?
Do you ever wonder if you could be anaemic? Do you feel weak all the time or experience dizziness every now and again? SymptomsCausesPreventionSources
Dr Doreen Brady-West, consultant haematologist at the University Hospital of the West Indies, says anaemia refers to haemoglobin (protein in red blood cells that carry oxygen) that is below the normal range for age and sex.
Our blood contains many different types of cells, one of them being red blood cells. These cells, which get their colour from haemoglobin, are responsible for transporting oxygen to our body tissues. Women tend to have lower haemoglobin than men.
People who are anaemic may experience an inability to tolerate exercise, they may get tired easily, they may feel dizzy, or experience shortness of breath.
They may also complain of palpitations, which are noticeable heartbeats. This is due to the tissues not getting enough oxygenation because of the anaemia, leading the heart to pump faster to bring the oxygen to the tissues.
Additionally, the increased demand on the heart may cause heart enlargement or heart failure. Interestingly, some persons may develop a craving for unusual substances like ice or chalk, known as pica.
If the anaemia is a result of the destruction of red blood cells, then the person may also present with jaundice, causing a yellow discolouration of the eyes.
The most common cause of anaemia, particularly in women, is a deficiency in iron. Iron deficiency can result from a combination of causes. Some persons may have insufficient dietary intake of iron, while others may have heavy or frequent menstrual bleeding. Despite this fact it is important to note that not all cases of anaemia are related to lack of iron and it is wrong to administer iron to all anaemic patients.
Investigations must first be done and the cause of the anaemia must be confirmed. In some cases, the cause may be worm infestation (especially in children) or an ulcer or tumour in the stomach or bowels from which small amounts of blood are lost over a long period of time.
Anaemia can also result from a deficiency in vitamin B12 as well as folic acid. Also, if your red blood cells are being destroyed by your body, you will become anaemic.
Women can prevent anaemia by maintaining a diet with adequate amounts of iron-rich foods. This is especially important for women in the childbearing age, because both menstruation and pregnancy increase the daily requirements for iron.
Meat is the best source of iron. Other sources include vegetables, eggs, as well as dairy products. Taking iron supplements is a great way to decrease the likelihood of you becoming anaemic. It should also be noted that only five to ten per cent of the iron that is consumed as food actually gets absorbed into the body for use.
