Signs you may be anaemic

ANAEMIA, also called iron-poor blood, occurs when your red blood cells become low in a protein called haemoglobin, which carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.

Obstetrician-gynaecologist (ObGyn) Dr Anna-Kay Taylor Christmas explained that a blood haemoglobin level of less than 12g/dl in women constitutes anaemia. She further explained that anaemia, a common finding in Jamaican women, is not a diagnosis by itself, as it can be caused by many varying things. But it is a sign of an underlying problem needing treatment.

According to Dr Taylor Christmas, common causes for anaemia in our population include iron-deficiency, Sickle Cell Disease and Thalassemia, vitamin B12 and folate deficiency, or chronic diseases such as lupus and kidney failure.

“It may also be caused by a poorly functioning bone marrow, which is responsible for making the components of blood, due to infection, toxins, medication, radiation or chemotherapy,” she said.

In addition, the ObGyn said iron deficiency is the most common cause of anaemia in our female population and is frequently due to heavy menstruation.

She said it may also be caused by poor diet low in iron, worm infestation, frequent pregnancy, decreased iron absorption from the stomach due to surgery or medication, bleeding haemorrhoids, and peptic ulcers.

In relation to symptoms, Dr Taylor Christmas said these depend on how severe the anaemia is and the underlying cause.

“Milder levels may cause tiredness, shortness of breath, weakness, dizziness and heart racing or skipping a beat on exertion or exercise,” the ObGyn said.

She said people may notice paleness of the eyes, skin, or of the palms or nail beds. She said as it becomes more severe, the symptoms become more pronounced and present, even while lying down.

“There may also be fainting and features of heart failure such as leg swelling, cough and wheezing. People suffering from iron deficiency may also experience pica — a craving to eat non-food substances such as dirt or ice. For anaemia caused by destruction of red cells, there can be jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin), dark urine or itchy skin. People with Sickle Cell disease may also suffer from chest or bone pain, chronic leg ulcers and strokes,” Dr Taylor Christmas pointed out.

The ObGyn said treatment begins by a thorough examination and investigations which are done to determine the severity and cause of the anaemia.

She said this is commonly achieved through blood tests, but ECG and chest X-Ray or other investigations may become necessary depending on the symptoms.

“If the anaemia is severe, hospital admission and blood transfusion as an emergency may be required. After improved haemoglobin levels are obtained, then treatment is specifically geared towards the underlying cause. This may involve iron infusions, oral supplements (such as iron, B12 or folate), proper control of chronic illnesses, worm medication and other things,” she said.

Overall, Dr Taylor Christmas said as there are so many causes of anaemia, it is important to get a proper evaluation by a doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms, as simply taking an iron tablet may not improve symptoms or treat the underlying cause.

— Kimberley Hibbert