How to Identify Anemia

Anemic red blood cells

Anemia is a blood deficiency that causes quality or quantity decrease in hemoglobin, an agent in the body responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Reading this article will teach you how to identify anemia.

Instructions

1. Know the symptoms of iron deficiency anemia. Iron is a required mineral of almost every living being. Iron helps with a few of the body's processes including metabolism. Lack of the iron mineral can cause iron deficiency, later anemia, and eventual severe health complications and death if not treated. Things you should look for in iron deficiency anemia are: a desire for substances such as ice, paper or dirt, curving of the nails and extreme soreness of your mouth. If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to let your doctor know immediately.

2. Know the symptoms of red blood cell anemia. One of the most common types of anemia is one caused by damaged red blood cells. Damaged blood cells either no longer carry hemoglobin or the hemoglobin that is carried is of poor quality. Some things you should look for in this type of anemia are: jaundice, ulcers of the legs, red or brown urine and fatigue. As with any other type of anemia, you should report any of these symptoms to your doctor as soon as possible.

3. Know the symptoms of sickle cell anemia. Sickle cell anemia usually affects children and young adults. Many other types of anemia result in the blood cells becoming immature and unable to carry oxygen correctly because of the poor quality or lack of hemoglobin. Sickle cell anemia; however, results in the anemic cells becoming disfigured and nearly unable to carry oxygen. Some things you should look for in sickle cell anemia are: decreased immunity, delayed growth in children, fatigue and spells of extreme pain in the joints and limbs (joint pain may be due to rheumatoid arthritis).

Tips & Warnings

• When you notice symptoms of anemia, it is very important to seek medical attention immediately.

Resources

• Health Scout