Anemia is among the prevalent health issues that women of all ages could experience. The main reason for this condition is when the body has fewer healthy red blood cells or less hemoglobin than normal to transport oxygen around the body. The symptoms for this condition are very much the same for everybody, but women in particular go through these nasty consequences because of menstrual blood loss, pregnancy, and poor nutrition. Knowing its causes, symptoms, and the times to have a doctor look at you will play a vital role in keeping your health and energy at good levels. In this article, we will discuss common causes of anemia in women, and their symptoms, backed by the best doctor for anemia in women.
What are the causes of anemia in women?
Iron deficiency is the leading cause of anemia among women, but there are several factors that can be responsible for it. The list below depicts the main reasons:
Menstrual Blood Loss: Heavy menstrual bleeding or prolonged menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) is a major cause of iron deficiency anemia in women of reproductive age. Even moderate monthly blood loss can, over time, completely use up iron stores.
- Pregnancy: The body requires more iron during pregnancy for the development of the fetus and the placenta. If there is no iron intake or supplement in place, the person can swiftly become anemic.
- Poor Diet: Most women’s diets are low in iron because they do not include iron-rich foods like red meat, green leafy vegetables, and legumes. A vegetarian or vegan diet, if not well-planned, can result in even less iron intake.
- Chronic Illnesses: Diseases like kidney failure, thyroid disorders, or autoimmune diseases can hinder the production of red blood cells.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: Lack of vitamin B12 or folic acid can result in the production of dysfunctional red blood cells, thereby causing anemia.
What are the symptoms of Anemia in Women?
Anemia shows its symptoms differently, depending on its cause and how severe it is. In case of mild anemia, the person might not even be aware of it, but when the hemoglobin levels are really low, the symptoms are easily recognized. The most frequent symptoms are:
- always being tired and weak
- skin losing its color or coldness in hands and feet
- getting out of breath even with very little exercise
- feeling dizzy or light-headed
- heart rate getting fast or discomfort in the chest
- nails breaking easily and loss of hair
- headaches and inability to focus
Anemia in extreme cases may result in passing out and heart issues, which clearly shows that anemia diagnosis and treatment must be done ASAP.
When to See a Doctor?
Consulting a doctor is the only way out when the symptoms like extreme tiredness, breathlessness, or skin color go on for more than a couple of weeks. Women who have heavy menstrual bleeding, are frequently pregnant, or are on strict diets should have regular bloodwork done to check their levels of hemoglobin and iron. Tests done usually by physicians are:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): To find out the hemoglobin levels and the number of red blood cells.
- Serum Ferritin and Iron Studies: To check the iron in the body and to see how well the body is absorbing it.
- Vitamin B12 and Folate Tests: To check if anemia is caused by a lack of these nutrients.
A quick diagnosis clarifies if the problem is due to iron deficiency, long-term disease, or other reasons, thus leading to the right treatment path.
If you are looking for the best anemia specialist hospital in Chandigarh, or the best anemia specialist hospital in Mohali, Sohana Hospital might just be the right option for you. Sohana Hospital Mohali is home to the World’s most advanced technology and North India’s most trusted and experienced gynecologists who provide the most comprehensive and holistic treatment for all issues related to women’s health. Book an appointment today!