Anemia occurs when your blood is unable to carry a sufficient supply of oxygen throughout your body, which most commonly results from a lack of iron--a condition known as iron deficiency anemia. Most prevalent among women, iron deficiency strikes only 3 percent of men compared to 20 percent of women and half of all pregnant women, according to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health. Also at risk are seniors and strict vegetarians.
Causes of Anemia
Numerous causes of anemia exist: long-term use of drugs including ibuprofen, aspirin and arthritis medicines; hereditary factors; underlying diseases; kidney problems; a poor diet; heavy menstruation; pregnancy; or the body's inability to absorb certain vitamins and nutrients, which might occur following surgery to the intestines or stomach.
Weight Loss and Other Symptoms
In the early stages of iron deficiency, no symptoms emerge, but as the condition progresses, weakness, dizziness, coldness in the hands and feet, headache, shortness of breath, irritability, poor concentration and chest pains may arise. Some people with anemia related to underlying health conditions, such as ulcerative colitis, also experience loss of appetite and weight loss. Whenever unexplained weight loss occurs, seek medical attention.
Anemia Diagnosis
People who exhibit unexplained weight loss or signs of anemia should see their doctor for a blood test. Although no one test can accurately point to the condition, doctors might perform a variety of tests to make a diagnosis. Screenings include hemoglobin tests, a complete blood count and tests that measure your iron levels.
Anemia Treatments
Anemia treatments vary based on your age, individual heath status and the cause of your condition, as does the outcome. In severe cases, anemia leads to low oxygen levels within vital organs including your heart, which can lead to a heart attack. People with iron deficiency anemia often use iron supplements in conjunction with dietary modifications to increase their iron levels. For most people with mild to moderate cases of iron deficiency anemia, treatment reverses the condition in around two to three months, although supplementation might still be required for a period of six months to prevent recurrence.
In some cases, you can avoid iron deficiency anemia and weight loss by eating a well-balanced diet, including good sources of iron and vitamin C, which aides iron absorption.
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