Understanding Deficiency Anemias: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

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Deficiency Anemias

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

Additional names

This group contains additional names: - Folate-Deficiency Anemia - Protein Deficiency Anemia - Megaloblastic Anemia

General

Anemia is a condition in which there is a low number of red blood cells, so that oxygen is not delivered well enough to the body organs. There are many causes for anemia. Deficiency anemias may be cause due to: Iron deficiency anemia is the common type of anemia, which is caused due to lack of iron. Vitamin deficiency anemia is caused due to lack of B12 and/or folate. If these deficiencies are not taken care of, long term anemia can lead to severe complications. Complications include severe fatigue, pregnancy complications, arrhythmias and even death. People who lack ingredients in their diet are prone to develop deficiency anemias, as well as people with intestinal disorders, malnutrition, pregnancy and alcoholism.

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Signs & symptoms

Signs and symptoms for anemia may include fatigue, weakness, palor, arrhythmias, shortness of breath, chest pain, cold hand or feet, headaches and dizziness.

Diagnosis

Anemia diagnosis will start with medical history, physical examination, a complete blood count for red blood cell count, hemoglobin and hematocrit. Iron, B12 and folic acid levels may also be tested.

Treatment

Deficiency anemia treatment is taking supplements of what is missing (Iron, Vitamin B12 or Folate) and dietary changes. There are also Vitamin B12 shots for people having problems absorbing it from the pills.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike

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