ABOUT:

• The condition of having a lower-than-normal number of red blood cells or quantity of hemoglobin.
• Normal results vary, but in general are:
1. Male: 13.8 to 17.2 gm/dL
2. Female: 12.1 to 15.1 gm/dL(Note: gm/dL = grams per deciliter)
• Anaemia has three main causes: blood loss, lack of red blood cell production, and high rates of red blood cell destruction.
• Conditions that may lead to anaemia include
1. Heavy periods
2. Pregnancy
3. Ulcers
4. Colon polyps or colon cancer
5. Inherited disorders
6. A diet that does not have enough iron, folic acid or vitamin B12
7. Blood disorders such as sickle cell anaemia and thalassemia, or cancer
8. Aplastic anaemia, a condition that can be inherited or acquired
9. Anaemia can make you feel tired, cold, dizzy, and irritable. You may be short of breath or have a headache.

SYMPTOMS:

• The most common symptom of anaemia is fatigue or weakness.
• Other signs and symptoms of anaemia include:
1. Shortness of breath
2. Dizziness
3. Headache
4. Coldness in the hands and feet
5. Pale skin
6. Chest pain

TREATMENT:

• Iron supplements: The most commonly prescribed supplement is ferrous sulphate, taken orally (by mouth) two or three times a day.
• Dietary supplements: Iron-rich foods include:
1. Dark-green leafy vegetables, such as spinach
2. Iron-fortified cereals
3. Whole grains, such as brown rice
4. Beans
5. Nuts
6. Meat
7. Apricots