Anaemia is very common. In fact it’s the most common nutritional problem in the world. Anaemia primarily affects women, young people and children.

What causes anaemia and who can get it?

Anaemia happens when the amount of haemoglobin in your blood falls. Haemoglobin carries oxygen around your body and gives your blood the red pigment. The most common cause of anaemia is not having enough iron in your diet, which means that not enough haemoglobin can be made.

Anyone can get anaemia, but if you don’t get enough iron through your diet, you’re more likely to be affected. Anaemia can also occur when a person suffers from a lot of internal bleeding. Rarely it is caused by a lack of Vitamin B12 (folic acid). Anaemia can happen to people who have infections like malaria or conditions that cause bone marrow problems, but this is rare.

What are the signs and symptoms of anaemia?

If you have anaemia you may look pale. You may also feel tired, get headaches, feel dizzy or have palpitations (this is when you become aware of your heartbeat). In very bad cases, you can be short of breath, get dry nails and a sore tongue.

How is it normally diagnosed and treated?

A blood test is used to diagnose anaemia. It's very important that anaemia is treated, and it can usually be cured by diet. This should involve having plenty of leafy green vegetables, lean meat, eggs, liver and wholemeal bread. It can also be helpful to take iron supplements. If your anaemia is caused by a lack of vitamin B12 then your doctor may give you vitamin injections. These injections will need to be given every three months, usually for life.

Can it be prevented?

Many cases of anaemia can be prevented by making sure you have a healthy, iron-rich diet.

When to ask for medical help

You need to seek medical advice if you have any of the signs or symptoms above, or if you are concerned that you might be anaemic.

Looking forward

As long as the cause of the anaemia has been found and the right treatment given, you should be fine. You will need to carry on with the healthy diet though, and possibly the supplements – your doctor will let you know.

It’s important to treat the anaemia though, if you don’t your symptoms will get worse. You may suffer more and more from fatigue and get very weak. It’s possible you could also get angina (chest pain) or leg pain. You’ll also be much more likely to pick up infection.  This is why it’s important seek help as soon as you think you have a problem.

For more help and information

Please contact NHS Direct or talk to your doctor.

Last reviewed by Great Ormond Street Hospital: 20 July 2006

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