Low levels of iron or vitamin B-12 can cause anemia, or a low count of healthy red blood cells in the body. Red blood cells transport oxygen to your body's tissues. The body needs B-12 to make red blood cells, and it needs iron to make hemoglobin, a substance that enables the red blood cells to transport oxygen. Iron deficiency anemia and B-12 deficiency anemia may leave you feeling weak, tired or short of breath. Consult your doctor if you suspect you have low levels of either. Supplementation or diet adjustments can correct the problem, unless you need treatment for an underlying cause of poor iron or B-12 absorption.
Causes of B-12 Deficiency Anemia
Poor nutrition or a restricted diet, such as vegetarianism or veganism, may lead to vitamin B-12 deficiency. Good vitamin B-12 sources include animal-based foods such as meat, shellfish, poultry, eggs and dairy products. Even if you eat these foods, certain conditions can hinder your body's absorption of the vitamin. Chronic alcoholism, Crohn's disease, celiac disease, tapeworms and pernicious anemia can all make it difficult for you to absorb B-12. Antacids and heartburn medicines can also interfere with B-12 absorption, as can stomach, small intestine or weight-loss surgeries.
Symptoms of B-12 Deficiency Anemia
Symptoms of vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia include diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, light-headedness, loss of appetite, pale skin, difficulty concentrating, shortness of breath and bleeding gums, according to Medline Plus Medical Encyclopedia. Over time, B-12 deficiency can cause nerve damage, leading to symptoms such as confusion, dementia, depression, loss of balance and numbness or tingling in hands and feet.
Causes of Iron Deficiency Anemia
Poor diet can cause iron deficiency. Good sources of iron include meat, eggs, green leafy vegetables and iron-fortified foods such as cereals. Other causes of iron deficiency include blood loss, heavy menstruation, chronic internal bleeding or gastrointestinal bleeding. Intestinal disorders such as celiac disease can cause an inability to absorb iron. Pregnant women often become deficient in iron and require supplementation.
Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia
Mild iron deficiency anemia has symptoms similar to those resulting from overworking and fatigue, including weakness, shortness of breath and dizziness or lightheadedness. As iron deficiency progresses, symptoms may increase or intensify. Other symptoms include pale skin, headache, cold hands and feet, irritability, sore tongue, brittle nails, elevated heart rate, loss of appetite, restless legs syndrome and a craving for ice, dirt or starch, according to the Mayo Clinic website.
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