Chest pain or discomfort

Anemia commonly known as a lack of blood is a health problem that affects millions of people around the world.  It can have different causes but iron deficiency is one of the most common.

A lack of vitamin B12 can also lead to anemia. The body needs iron to produce hemoglobin a protein in red blood cells that helps carry oxygen throughout the body. When the body does not get enough oxygen several warning signs may appear.

Shortness of breath

Feeling out of breath during normal physical activities can be a sign of anemia. When iron levels are low the body may not produce enough hemoglobin making it harder for the blood to deliver oxygen to different parts of the body.

Constant tiredness

Feeling tired all the time is one of the most common signs of anemia. Some people may feel exhausted even after doing simple daily tasks. Low levels of iron or vitamin B12 can contribute to this unusual tiredness.

Pale or yellowish skin

People with anemia may notice that their skin looks paler than usual. The palms nails, lips or inside of the mouth may also appear less pink. This happens because there are fewer healthy red blood cells carrying blood to the skin.

Chest discomfort

When the number of healthy red blood cells falls, the heart may have to work harder to supply enough oxygen to the body.  In some cases this can cause chest discomfort or pain.

Cold hands and feet

People with iron deficiency anemia may often have cold hands and feet.

When red blood cells are low, the body gives priority to important organs such as the heart and brain. As a result less blood may reach the hands and feet.

Frequent headaches

Occasional headaches are common and can have many causes. However frequent headaches may sometimes be linked to anemia.

When the body has difficulty delivering enough oxygen changes in blood flow may contribute to headaches.

Fast or irregular heartbeat

Anemia can make the heart work harder to deliver oxygen around the body. This may cause a faster heartbeat or a feeling that the heart is beating unusually or irregularly.

Dizziness

Feeling dizzy or lightheaded can also occur when the body is not getting enough oxygen. People with anemia may especially notice dizziness when standing up or during physical activity.

Irritability

Some people with anemia may become unusually irritable or easily upset.  Experts are not completely sure why this happens but reduced oxygen supply may play a role.

Mouth sores

repeated mouth sores or changes in the tongue can sometimes be linked to nutritional deficiencies including iron deficiency.

Unusual Cravings

A strong desire to eat non food items such as ice, paper or wood can be a warning sign of iron deficiency. This condition is known as pica.

The exact reason for these cravings is not fully understood but they are commonly associated with iron deficiency.

Hair loss

Iron is important for healthy hair growth. When the body does not have enough iron some people may experience increased hair shedding.

Hair loss alone does not necessarily mean a person has anemia but it may be worth discussing with a doctor if it occurs along with other symptoms.

When to see a doctor

These symptoms can have many different causes so they do not always mean that a person has anemia. If several of these signs continue for a long time, it is better to consult a healthcare professional.

A blood test can help determine whether anemia or an iron vitamin B12 or other nutritional deficiency is responsible.