Anemia is a condition that describes a low red blood cell count. This can be caused by either low B12 or low iron, but the most common form is iron deficiency.
Iron is a mineral that we get from our diet and which has a wide range of different important roles in the body. Among these, one of the most crucial is that it is used in the formation of red blood cells. And those that remember their high school biology should know that the red blood cells are the cells that carry oxygen around the circulatory system from the heart to the muscles, organs, brain, and lungs. What you may be less aware of, is the fact that they also carry other things – including important nutrients.
As you’re probably rather aware, we need oxygen rather crucially. When this starts running low, you notice a range of different ill effects – whether that’s because you’re holding your breath, or because you’re struggling with anemia.
Either way, we’ll take a look at some of the most common symptoms here.
1. Tiredness
The number one symptom you will likely notice when your iron count is low is fatigue. This is simply a sign that you aren’t getting enough oxygen around your body where it is needed, which in turn reduces your ability to create and use energy.
This might feel like general fatigue – as though all your usual activities feel that much more difficult. Note however that there are a vast number of different conditions that are all capable of causing fatigue. This can likewise be a symptom of chronic fatigue syndrome, adrenal fatigue, or of depression.
Still, add anemia to your list of possible causes and make sure to look for the other symptoms on this list if you do experience it!
