Anemia is a medical condition caused by insufficient levels of iron within the blood. In healthy people the body uses iron to make hemoglobin---a substance within the blood involved with carrying oxygen throughout the body. If you're anemic your blood can't carry adequate levels of oxygen to the cells and tissues. Due to this, you can develop a number of symptoms.
Fatigue
If your cells and tissues don't receive enough oxygen they will not have the energy to meet your body's demand. This can cause you to feel excessively fatigued or weak, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. You can have difficulty waking up in the morning or may require frequent naps throughout the day. Pronounced weakness can make it difficult for you to lift certain items as usual. Such symptoms can affect your ability to complete tasks associated with school or work.
Altered Heartbeat
When your body detects less oxygen levels in your tissues, it signals your heart to beat faster to deliver oxygenated blood more rapidly. If you have anemia, you can develop an increased or rapid heartbeat, which can also contribute to symptoms of chest pain or shortness of breath.
Pale Skin
Healthy skin color is the sign of sufficient oxygen levels in the blood. Anemia can cause you to develop abnormally pale skin.
Dizziness
If you have anemia, you can develop dizziness as a result of this condition. Additional symptoms can include lightheadedness, fainting or loss of consciousness.
Cold Extremities
If your cells and tissues don't receive enough oxygen due to anemia, you body will try to protect your central organs by limiting blood flow to your extremities. This can cause you to develop abnormally cold hands and feet.
Headache
Decreased levels of oxygen in the blood can cause you to develop a headache. Headaches can be a recurrent issue in patients with anemia and vary in severity from mild to severe.
Cognitive Difficulties
If you have anemia, your brain may not receive adequate levels of oxygen. You could experience episodes of confusion, inattentiveness or irritability. If your anemia is left untreated, these symptoms will become progressively worse.
