Understanding Anaemia: Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Dr. Indu K
Jan 07, 2025 3 min read
Understanding Anaemia

Key Takeaways:

  • Anaemia is a global health issue affecting approximately 24.8% of the world’s population, with children under 5 and pregnant women being most affected.
  • Common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications like heart problems or delayed growth in children.

Anaemia is a global health issue affecting around 1.92 billion people, approximately 24.8% of the world’s population. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is most prevalent in young children and pregnant women, with about 42% of children under 5 and 40% of pregnant women worldwide affected. Despite its widespread nature, anaemia often goes undiagnosed, making awareness and early intervention crucial.

This blog will help you understand what anaemia is, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

What is Anaemia?

Anaemia is a condition characterised by a lack of healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin in the blood. Haemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. When haemoglobin levels are low, your body may not receive enough oxygen, leading to fatigue and weakness.

Normal Haemoglobin Ranges

Haemoglobin levels vary based on age, sex, and physiological conditions. Below are the normal ranges:

Group

Haemoglobin Level (g/dL)

Men

13.8–17.2

Women

12.1–15.1

Pregnant Women

>11.0

Children (6–59 months)

11.0–13.5

Children (5–11 years)

11.5–15.5

Adolescents (12–15 years)

12.0–16.0

Pathophysiology of Anaemia

Anaemia arises due to one or more of the following mechanisms:

1. Decreased RBC Production:

  • Nutritional deficiencies (iron, vitamin B12, folate).
  • Bone marrow suppression (aplastic anaemia, leukaemia).
  • Chronic diseases (renal failure, chronic inflammation).

2. Increased RBC Destruction (Hemolysis):

  • Inherited hemolytic anaemias (sickle cell anaemia, thalassemia).
  • Acquired hemolytic anaemias (autoimmune hemolysis, infections).

3. Blood Loss:

  • Acute (trauma, surgery).
  • Chronic (gastrointestinal bleeding, heavy menstruation).

Types of Anaemia

There are several types of anaemia, including:

  • Iron-Deficiency Anaemia: Caused by insufficient iron intake or absorption.
  • Vitamin Deficiency Anaemia: Caused by a lack of essential vitamins like B12 or folate.
  • Hemolytic Anaemia: When red blood cells are destroyed faster than they are produced.
  • Aplastic Anaemia: A rare condition where the bone marrow fails to produce enough blood cells.
  • Sickle Cell Anaemia: A genetic condition where red blood cells are shaped abnormally.
  • Anaemia of Chronic Disease: Associated with chronic illnesses like kidney disease or cancer.

Common Causes of Anaemia

The underlying causes of anaemia vary but may include:

  • Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of iron, vitamin B12, or folate.
  • Blood Loss: Due to injuries, heavy menstrual periods, or internal bleeding.
  • Chronic Conditions: Diseases such as kidney failure or inflammatory conditions.
  • Genetic Disorders: Inherited conditions like sickle cell anaemia or thalassemia.

Symptoms of Anaemia

The symptoms of anaemia can range from mild to severe, depending on its severity and cause. Common symptoms include:

  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Pale or yellowish skin
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Headaches

If left untreated, anaemia can lead to serious health complications such as heart problems or delayed growth in children.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing anaemia typically involves:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC): Hemoglobin, hematocrit, RBC indices (MCV, MCH).

2. Peripheral Blood Smear: Morphological evaluation (microcytosis, macrocytosis, anisocytosis).

3. Iron Studies: Serum ferritin, transferrin saturation, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC).

4. Vitamin Levels: Serum B12 and folate levels.

5. Hemolysis Markers: LDH, indirect bilirubin, haptoglobin.

6. Bone Marrow Biopsy (if indicated): To diagnose aplastic anaemia or myelodysplastic syndromes.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and cause of anaemia. Common approaches include:

  • Dietary Changes: Incorporating iron-rich foods like spinach, red meat, beans, and fortified cereals.
  • Supplements: Iron, vitamin B12, or folate supplements as prescribed by a doctor.
  • Medications: For conditions like chronic disease anaemia or autoimmune disorders.
  • Blood Transfusions: In severe cases or during critical illness.
  • Bone Marrow Transplant: For aplastic anaemia or severe hemolytic anaemia.

Treatment based on the underlying cause:

Cause Treatment Approach
Iron DeficiencyOral/IV iron supplementation; dietary changes
Vitamin B12/Folate DeficiencyB12 or folate replacement (oral or IM)
Chronic DiseaseTreat underlying condition; erythropoiesis-stimulating agents
HemolysisCorticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or splenectomy
Severe CasesBlood transfusions or bone marrow transplant

Preventing Anaemia

You can reduce your risk of anaemia by:

  • Eating a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Managing chronic conditions effectively.
  • Regular check-ups to monitor your blood levels.

Conclusion

Anaemia is a complex condition with multifactorial causes. For medical students preparing for exams like the Australian Medical Council (AMC) exam, understanding its pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, and evidence-based management is crucial. Early recognition and intervention not only improve patient outcomes but also prevent severe complications.

To enhance your preparation, consider enrolling in online coaching platforms like Academically’s AMC Preparation Course. This platform provides comprehensive resources, including study materials, question banks, and personalised support to help you succeed.

Fill out this form for a free one-on-one consultation or career guidance to take the next step in your medical career.

FAQs

Q. What is anaemia?

A. Anaemia is a medical condition in which the number of red blood cells (RBCs) or haemoglobin levels in the blood are lower than normal, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to the body’s tissues.

Q. What are the common symptoms of anaemia?

A. Common symptoms of anaemia include: Fatigue and weakness Pale or yellowish skin Shortness of breath Dizziness or lightheadedness Cold hands and feet Headaches and irregular heartbeat

Q. Who is most at risk of developing anaemia?

A. High-risk groups include: Women of childbearing age due to menstrual blood loss Pregnant women Infants and young children People with chronic diseases or poor dietary intake

Q. How is anaemia diagnosed?

A. The following tests are usually used for diagnosing anaemia: Complete Blood Count (CBC) to measure haemoglobin levels and red blood cell indices. Peripheral blood smear to examine the shape and size of red blood cells. Iron studies, vitamin B12, and folate levels to identify deficiencies. Additional tests like a bone marrow biopsy, if needed.

Dr. Indu K
Dr. Indu K
about the author

Dr. Indu K is a dentist with one year of clinical experience. She seamlessly transitioned into content writing three years ago. Her passion lies in making complex medical information accessible to everyone. She uses her unique blend of medical knowledge and exceptional writing skills to bridge the gap between healthcare and the general audience.