Signs of Anemia in Women

Anemia is a condition of the blood that occurs when there not enough healthy red blood cells to transport oxygen to the tissues. There are many types of anemia and the symptoms vary with the types on anemia. One of the most common signals of anemia is a feeling of being constantly tired or fatigued, making it difficult to function.

When a person has anemia their blood does not carry enough oxygen to the tissues, affecting the functioning of the entire body.

Women have risks of anemia associated with heavy menstrual belled, uterine fibroid tumors and pregnancy. Blood loss associated with these events can cause an iron deficiency in women when they are in their reproductive age.

According to The National Anemia Action Council, iron deficiency anemia is a problem that is under recognized and under treated in women of reproductive age. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force have identified anemia as an important health issue for women. In the United States it is believed that six million women of reproductive age are iron deficient. It is estimated that about three million of these iron deficient women will develop iron deficiency anemia.

Women do not always recognize signs of iron deficiency anemia. Symptoms of anemia should be reported to a physician for proper diagnoses and treatment.

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia

Shortness of breath

Heart palpitations

Craving for ice - chewing on ice cubes

Headaches

Dizziness or fainting

Nervousness

Lack of concentration

Forgetfulness

Fatigued or tired feeling

Weakness

Shortness of breath

Sexual dysfunction

Decreased job performance

Addition symptoms of anemia include pale skin, feeling cold and feeling sad or depressed.

Women who experience symptom of anemia, such as fatigue, should consult a physician. Fatigue has other causes other than anemia, so it is important to get a correct diagnosis to treat the condition correctly.

Anemia that is left untreated can become a more serious condition. Complications of severe anemia include severe fatigue, heart problems, nerve damage, impaired mental function and even death.

Many people with anemia complain of being tired all of the time. If the condition becomes so severe that you are constantly fatigued it may be difficult to function and even to do everyday tasks. The quality of life becomes poor if you are too tired to work or play.

Anemia can lead to heart arrhythmia, a rapid or irregular heartbeat. The heart needs to pump more blood to compensate of the lack of adequate oxygen in the blood and this can lead to congestive heart failure.

Nerve damage and impaired mental function can be a result of a shortage of vitamin B-12, which is important for healthy nerve function and mental abilities.

Some types of anemia can be treated with nutrition and vitamins. A doctor should be consulted for a correct diagnoses, wince the symptoms of anemia can also be caused by other conditions.

Information is this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have a medical condition, please consult a physician.

Resources:

Mayo Clinic website
National Anemia Action Council
Naitonal Institute of Health NIH

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