Anemia is a condition in which a person has a lower than normal number of red blood cells or hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein found in red blood cells that helps carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. People can be affected by anemia on a short-term or long-term basis.
Types of Anemia
There are different types of anemia that can be caused by different factors. A few of the most common types of anemia include:
Iron Deficiency Anemia: This type of anemia is caused by a lack of iron in the diet. This can lead to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, which can cause fatigue, headaches, and other symptoms.
Vitamin Deficiency Anemia: This type of anemia is caused by a lack of certain vitamins, such as vitamin B12 or folate, in the diet. This can lead to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms.
Aplastic Anemia: This type of anemia is caused by damage to the bone marrow, which is responsible for producing red blood cells. This can lead to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, which can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and other symptoms.
Can Anemia Be Life-Long?
Anemia can be a short-term or long-term condition, depending on the cause. Some types of anemia can be treated with diet and lifestyle changes, while others may require medication or even a blood transfusion. In some cases, anemia may be a chronic condition that requires lifelong treatment.