ANEMIA

ANEMIA

Anemia is a condition that is characterized by the lack of sufficient healthy red blood cells to transport an adequate level of oxygen to body tissues. If you have anemia, you are likely to feel tired and fatigued.

There are many forms of anemia, each with different causes. Anemia can be temporary or prolonged, and can vary between mild and severe. Consult a doctor if you suspect you have anemia, as this may indicate a serious illness.

Symptoms:

  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Pale or Yellowish Skin
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Difficulty in Breathing
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Chest Pain
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Headache

Causes

Anemia occurs when the blood does not have enough red blood cells. This can happen if:

    • Body does not produce enough red blood cells.
    • A bleeding causes the loosing of red blood cells faster than they can be replaced.
    • Body destroys red blood cells.

Factors of risk

    • A diet lacking in certain vitamins.
    • Intestinal Disorders.
    • Menstruation.
    • Pregnancy.
    • Chronic Diseases.
    • Familiar History.
    • Age.

Prevention

Follow a diet rich in vitamins

There are many types of anemia that cannot be avoided. However, iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemias can be avoided through a diet that includes a variety of vitamins and nutrients, including:

Iron. Iron-rich foods include beef and other meats, beans, lentils, iron-fortified cereals, dark green leafy vegetables and dried fruits.

Folate. This nutrient and its synthetic form (folic acid) are found in fruits, fruit juices, dark green leafy vegetables, green peas, beans, peanuts and whole grain products, such as bread, cereal, pasta and rice.

B-12 Vitamin. Foods rich in B-12 vitamin include meat, dairy products and soy products and fortified cereals.

Vitamin C. Vitamin C-rich foods include citrus fruits and juices, peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, melons and strawberries. These foods help to increase the absorption of iron. These foods help to increase the iron absorption.

Consult a doctor