Yes, you can have anemia for years. Anemia is a condition in which your body doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to your tissues. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including inadequate iron intake, certain medications, chronic diseases, and blood disorders.
There are several types of anemia, including iron-deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 anemia, and aplastic anemia. Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia and can occur when your body is not getting enough iron. This can be due to blood loss, inadequate dietary intake of iron, or an inability to absorb iron from the digestive tract. Vitamin B12 anemia occurs when your body does not have enough vitamin B12, which is found primarily in animal products. Lastly, aplastic anemia occurs when your bone marrow does not produce enough red blood cells.
The symptoms of anemia can range from mild to severe and include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, and chest pain. If left untreated, anemia can lead to serious complications, such as heart problems, impaired cognitive function, and an increased risk of infections.
If you suspect that you have anemia, it is important to see your doctor for testing and treatment. Treatment options will depend on the type and cause of your anemia. For iron-deficiency anemia, treatment may involve taking iron supplements and eating iron-rich foods. For vitamin B12 anemia, your doctor may recommend taking vitamin B12 shots or taking an oral supplement. For aplastic anemia, your doctor may recommend a blood transfusion or medications to help your body produce new red blood cells.
In some cases, anemia can be a long-term condition. If you have been diagnosed with anemia, it is important to follow your doctor's treatment plan and take steps to prevent further complications.