Anemic symptoms
Anemia is a decrease in hemoglobin (Hb) levels. Hb is the protein in red blood cells, which take oxygen from the lungs to other parts of the body. If the amount of hemoglobin in red blood cells decreases, the blood can not carry oxygen for the body with the appropriate amount.
Symptoms caused by insufficient oxygen supply to the body can be vary. Anemia can cause fatigue, shortness of breath and dizziness. People with anemia do not feel as good as people with normal hemoglobin levels. They find it more difficult to work. This means lower quality of life. Stroke or heart attack can occur if anemia gets worse.
Anemia is defined by the level of hemoglobin. Most doctors agree that the hemoglobin level below 6.5 g/dL indicates life-threatening anemia. Normal hemoglobin levels are at least 12 g/dL for women and 13 g/dL for men.
Overall, women have lower Hb levels than men. Likewise with people who are very old or very young.
What Causes Anemia?
Bone marrow makes red blood cells. This process requires iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid. Erythropoietin (EPO) stimulates red blood cell production. EPO is a hormone made by kidneys.
Anemia can occur if the body does not make enough red blood cells. Anemia is also caused by loss or damage to the cell.
There are several factors that can cause anemia:
- Iron deficiency, vitamin B12 or folic acid. Folic acid deficiency can cause a type of anemia called megaloblastic anemia, with large red blood cells, light-colored.
- Damage to bone marrow or kidney.
- Blood loss due to bleeding or menstrual cycle in women.
- The destruction of red blood cells (hemolytic anemia).
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