Iron is required by the body for growth and development. The body utilizes iron to form hemoglobin, a protein that transports oxygen to different body parts. Unfortunately, iron deficiency, or anemia, affects approximately 5 million people nationwide. Moreover, women are more susceptible to anemia than men. This can be avoided by having iron-rich foods and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. That said, here are some early signs of anemia to watch out for:

Extreme fatigue
As mentioned earlier, iron is used to produce hemoglobin, which plays an integral role in supplying oxygen throughout the body. Low iron and hemoglobin levels lead to the lack of oxygen in the body, resulting in extreme tiredness and fatigue. Hence, individuals with anemia may feel perpetually exhausted, even after sleeping well at night.

Skin paleness
Healthy skin complexion results from capillaries present underneath the skin. However, these capillaries do not function optimally among individuals with anemia. Consequently, the skin may turn yellowish and pale throughout the body or in certain body parts, such as the lips, eyelids, and face.

Cold hands and feet
Individuals with anemia may experience cold hands and feet as their blood does not get adequately circulated in the body. This is because the body does not have sufficient red blood cells to supply oxygen to the tissues.

Headache
Poor blood circulation due to anemia can cause the blood vessels in the brain to swell, causing elevated blood pressure and resulting in headaches. One may also experience lightheadedness as a result.

Limb tingling
The limbs require considerable blood and oxygen supply to function optimally. Low hemoglobin levels among patients with anemia cause less blood and oxygen supply to the limbs, resulting in a tingling sensation in this area. Often, this tingling sensation increases at night.

Inability to concentrate
Lack of blood and oxygen supply to different body parts can cause weakness and fatigue, resulting in the inability to focus on one’s daily activities. The inability to concentrate even on simple tasks due to fatigue can be an early sign of anemia.

Pica
Pica refers to a craving for substances that have no nutritional value. Sometimes, these substances may even be inedible, such as chalk, paper, and dirt. Extreme anemia causes one to experience such unusual cravings. Although the underlying cause of the connection between pica and anemia is unclear, it is believed that the body may crave such substances to compensate for its lack of nutrients. Hence, it is imperative that patients with anemia maintain a healthy, nutrient-rich meal plan, having iron-rich foods like leafy greens, meat sources, oily fish, beetroot, dates, and dairy products, as well as vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits to aid in optimal iron absorption.

Increased heart rate
Palpitations may indicate low levels of oxygen in the blood, which results from anemia. Sometimes, individuals may also experience heightened anxiety levels and chest pain.

Doctors typically prescribe oral interventions to patients with anemia to boost their iron levels. Blood transfusions or shots of the hormone erythropoietin, which regulates RBC count in the body, may be recommended treatment options for individuals with severe anemia. Finally, increasing one’s intake of iron-rich foods and foods high in vitamin C is crucial to increase iron levels and heal from the condition.