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Overview of Anemia

By

The Manual's Editorial Staff

Reviewed/Revised Dec 2022
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What is anemia?

Anemia is not having enough red blood cells Red Blood Cells The main components of blood include Plasma Red blood cells White blood cells Platelets read more Red Blood Cells or hemoglobin. Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to all of your other organs. Hemoglobin is the substance inside your red blood cells that actually carries the oxygen.

  • When you have too few red blood cells or too little hemoglobin, your blood can’t carry all the oxygen your body needs

  • Anemia causes tiredness and weakness

  • There are many causes of anemia

  • It's important to test for anemia as you get older because it can shorten your life span

What causes anemia?

What are the symptoms of anemia?

Symptoms depend on how severe your anemia is.

Mild anemia causes:

  • Feeling weak and tired

  • Paleness

Severe anemia causes:

  • Feeling faint and dizzy

  • Feeling thirsty

  • Sweating

  • Weak, fast pulse

  • Lower leg cramps during exercise

  • Shortness of breath

  • Chest pain

How do doctors tell if I have anemia?

Doctors do a blood test to measure your levels of hemoglobin and red blood cells. They may do other tests to find the cause of your anemia.

How do doctors treat anemia?

If a health problem is causing your anemia, doctors treat that health problem. Treatment depends on the type of anemia you have. Doctors may treat anemia with:

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