
Could Your Chronic Fatigue Point to Anemia?

You’ve been feeling sluggish for a while now and can’t quite pinpoint why. Could anemia be the cause? Close to 900,000 people are diagnosed with anemia in emergency rooms each year in the United States, and fatigue is a common symptom. Exhaustion and a lack of energy can also stem from other conditions, however, so proper diagnosis is essential.
Our expert team at Arundel Medical Group, Inc. in Glen Burnie, Maryland, accepts same-day and walk-in appointments, in addition to exams you can schedule in advance. We diagnose and treat a range of conditions, including anemia. Read on to learn more about anemia, including chronic fatigue as a potential sign.
Anemia 101
Your body relies on a steady flow of oxygen, which it receives from red blood cells. Anemia happens when you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells to take care of this task. Also known as low hemoglobin, anemia commonly causes weakness and fatigue because of a lack of oxygen.
While it’s possible to have anemia without developing symptoms, additional signs may include:
- Chest pain
- Cold hands and feet
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headaches
- Irregular heart rhythms
- Pale or yellowish skin
- Shortness of breath
These symptoms tend to start out fairly mild and gradually intensify over time. Causes of anemia range from a genetic predisposition to eating a restrictive or low-iron diet. Anemia can also derive from an inability to properly absorb nutrients and from diseases such as cancer, AIDS, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Other causes of fatigue
Getting an accurate diagnosis for the cause of your fatigue can help ensure proper treatment and swift relief. As part of that process, your provider at Arundel Medical Group may ask you about other factors that may be fueling your symptoms.
Other issues and conditions that can cause lingering fatigue include:
- Anxiety or depression
- Cancer
- Chronic or unmanaged stress
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- COVID-19
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Lifestyle factors, such as a lack of sleep or exercise
- Sleep apnea
- Thyroid disease
Anemia diagnosis and treatment
When you come into our office because of chronic fatigue, your provider will ask you about your medical history and symptoms during your exam. If they determine that you may have anemia, they’ll likely order blood tests to determine your overall level of blood cells, as well as the shape and size of your red blood cells.
Treatment for anemia varies, depending on the cause. In many cases, dietary changes or iron supplements go a long way. In severe cases caused by non-dietary factors, you may need supplemental oxygen, pain medications, or a blood transfusion.
To learn more about anemia or get the care you need, call our office or request an appointment on our website.
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