Anemia is a condition in which the body does not produce enough healthy red blood cells. As a result, the body does not receive enough oxygen. When ignored, this condition can cause severe consequences and complications. Understanding the symptoms of different types of anemia (i.e., sickle cell anemia, iron deficiency, vitamin deficiency, aplastic, and hemolytic anemia), as well as the causes of sickle cell anemia, and drugs like Oxbryta, which can reduce symptoms, may help one assist the doctor with an accurate diagnosis. Read on to find the symptoms of anemia.

1. Fatigue
In anemia, the body struggles to produce hemoglobin – a protein that helps transport oxygen throughout the body. This deprives the body of oxygen and overworks the heart, leaving one feeling tired and fatigued. This also caused people to have trouble concentrating and reduces the energy in the body.

2. Peculiar cravings
A person develops cravings to consume non-nutritious foods such as chalk, mud, and clay. This condition is known as pica and is usually caused by iron deficiency. It is one of the most obvious symptoms of iron deficiency anemia. However, it is hard to detect as people do not admit to this behavior.

3. Shortness of breath
Hemoglobin in the blood helps transport oxygen throughout the body. In anemia, fewer red blood cells are produced, resulting in a hemoglobin deficiency. As a result, the muscles and organs present in the body are deprived of oxygen. This makes a person feel tired and out of breath while doing simple tasks like climbing stairs.

4. Pale skin
Hemoglobin is a protein that is responsible for giving blood its red color. In anemia, hemoglobin is not supplied to the body in adequate quantities. As a result, the skin loses its color and turns pale. One may experience paleness in several parts of the body, such as the face, nails, and gums.

5. Dizziness
Dizziness and frequent headaches are usually associated with iron deficiency. When the brain is deprived of oxygen, it may cause the vessels to get pressurized, causing headaches accompanied by dizziness. If the problem persists, one must visit their physician and get the required treatment immediately.

6. Abnormal heartbeats
Iron deficiency and lack of hemoglobin deprive the body of the oxygen it needs. Due to the storage of oxygen in the body, the heart works harder to ensure that all parts of the body receive oxygen. This can result in an abnormal or a high heartbeat count. When a person has iron deficiency for a long time, they might also suffer from heart failure.

7. Cold feet
Anemia reduces the production of red blood cells in the body. This impairs the circulatory system’s ability to transport important elements such as iron to the body. When there is not enough iron in the body, the body is deprived of oxygen. This causes the feet to get cold. People may also notice this symptom in their hands.