Anemia is a condition that occurs when your blood has a reduced number of red blood cells or hemoglobin, the protein that helps your red blood cells transport oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. When you have anemia, your blood has less oxygen than normal. This can cause symptoms like fatigue and weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, and an irregular heartbeat.

Anemia can develop in anyone regardless of age, race, or ethnicity. However, some people are more at risk for developing the condition, including people who have cancer, an autoimmune disorder, or heavy periods.

Treatment for mild to moderate anemia usually involves supplements or medications that help your blood develop more red blood cells. In more severe cases, a blood transfusion or surgery may be necessary.

Types

There are many types of anemia. Some types are more common and easier to treat than others, but they can all lead to complications if left untreated.

Iron deficiency anemia
When you don't have enough iron, you are at risk of developing iron deficiency anemia. This common type of anemia usually occurs when you don't consume adequate iron in your diet. It impacts many women and children. Low iron levels can also develop due to blood loss or medical conditions that make it difficult for your body to absorb iron.

While this type of anemia rarely causes death, it can lead to significant complications. Symptoms and possible complications include:

  • Fatigue

  • Headaches

  • Restless legs syndrome, a condition that causes your legs to move uncontrollably

  • Heart problems

  • Pregnancy complications like early labor and low infant birth weight

Iron deficiency anemia can also worsen other medical conditions or reduce the effectiveness of treatments.

Pernicious anemia
Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disorder, meaning your body mistakenly attacks healthy cells. This type of anemia is relatively rare and is most common in older adults.

People with pernicious anemia have low levels of vitamin B12, which is needed to make healthy red blood cells and maintain nervous system function. This condition causes larger-than-normal red blood cells that do not divide effectively, making it difficult for them to leave the bone marrow and transport oxygen throughout the body.

If left untreated, pernicious anemia can cause serious complications such as bleeding, infections, or irreversible brain and nerve damage. Infants of people with a vitamin B12 deficiency are more likely to have developmental delays and birth defects in the brain and spinal cord.

Aplastic anemia
Aplastic anemia is a rare but serious blood condition. It occurs when your bone marrow cannot make enough new blood cells for your body to function properly. This condition often results from damage to stem cells inside the bone marrow, usually caused by the immune system attacking and destroying them.

Without treatment, aplastic anemia can lead to complications like irregular heartbeat, heart failure, bleeding issues, and an increased risk of blood cancers such as leukemia. This condition is life-threatening, with high death rates if untreated. However, younger people who receive treatment have much better survival outcomes.

Hemolytic anemia
With hemolytic anemia, your red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be replaced. It may be acquired or inherited, and the cause is not always clear.

People with mild hemolytic anemia may not require treatment, but severe cases can lead to serious complications if left untreated, including irregular heartbeat, an enlarged heart, and heart failure.

Anemia Symptoms

Anemia symptoms can vary depending on severity and how quickly the condition develops. People with mild anemia may not notice any symptoms, while symptoms become more pronounced as the condition progresses.

Early signs

  • Pale skin

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Dizziness

  • Increased thirst

  • Sweating

  • Rapid pulse

  • Fast breathing

  • Tongue swelling, dry mouth, and ulcers

  • Spoon-shaped nails

  • Hair loss

Severe symptoms

  • Lower leg cramps

  • Shortness of breath

  • Brain damage

  • Heart-related issues such as arrhythmias, murmurs, or heart failure

What Causes Anemia?

There are three main causes of anemia:

  • Lack of red blood cell production due to nutritional deficiencies or poor absorption.

  • High rates of red blood cell destruction caused by chronic conditions.

  • Blood loss through menstruation, injury, or internal bleeding.

Risk Factors

Certain conditions and genetic factors increase the risk of developing anemia, such as:

  • A diet low in iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid

  • Frequent blood donation

  • Heavy menstrual bleeding

  • Pregnancy

  • Cancer

  • Ulcers or colon conditions

  • Autoimmune disorders

  • Inherited blood disorders like sickle cell disease

  • Genetic enzyme deficiencies

  • Exposure to toxins like pesticides

  • Radiation and chemotherapy

  • Viral infections like Epstein-Barr virus

Diagnosis

Diagnosis often starts with a physical exam to check for pale skin, brittle nails, and tongue changes. Your healthcare provider may review your medical history, diet, and family history.

Common tests

  • Complete blood count (CBC)

  • Hemoglobin concentration tests

  • Hematocrit level tests

  • Red blood cell size measurements

Other diagnostic methods

  • Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy

  • Urine tests to check kidney function

  • Genetic tests for inherited conditions

  • Colonoscopy or endoscopy to detect internal bleeding

Anemia Treatments

Treatment depends on the type and severity of anemia, but the main goal is to increase red blood cell count and hemoglobin, improve oxygen supply, and treat underlying causes.

Diet
Eating more iron-rich foods is a first step in mild cases. Sources include beef, poultry, eggs, beans, and leafy greens. Pairing iron with vitamin C-rich foods like oranges or strawberries improves absorption.

Supplements
Iron supplements are the most common treatment for iron deficiency anemia. Severe cases may require intravenous iron therapy. Pernicious anemia is often treated with vitamin B12 shots or nasal sprays.

Medications
If an underlying condition causes anemia, medications can help. In aplastic or hemolytic anemia, immunosuppressants or bone marrow stimulants may be prescribed.

Blood transfusions
Used in severe anemia to quickly restore red blood cell and iron levels.

Bone marrow transplants
Recommended for severe aplastic anemia, especially in younger patients with suitable donors.

Surgery
May be needed for internal bleeding or, in rare cases, to remove the spleen.

Prevention

Some types of anemia, especially those linked to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, can be prevented. Eating a balanced diet with iron and vitamin C helps. Avoiding triggers such as toxins or infections can also reduce risk. Women with heavy menstrual bleeding may benefit from early medical advice.

Related Conditions

Anemia is often linked with other health issues such as:

  • Heart failure

  • Hypertension

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

  • Hypothyroidism

  • Chronic kidney disease

  • Rheumatoid arthritis

Living With Anemia

Many people with anemia can live well with the right treatment. Supplements, lifestyle changes, and medications can restore energy and improve daily life. However, untreated severe anemia may cause organ failure and even be fatal.

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to living a long and healthy life with anemia.