4. Pale or Yellowish Skin
A pale or yellowish complexion is a possible symptom of anemia. The paleness may result from decreased blood flow to your skin. Most of the time, it will affect your whole body.
Paleness alone isn’t necessarily a sign of anemia, but if you have other symptoms, it could be an indicator.
5. Dizziness
The lack of oxygen to your brain can cause you to feel lightheaded or dizzy. You may even feel faint or pass out if you stand up too quickly.
Dizziness can be a symptom of other disorders, such as infection, injury, or poor circulation. It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor if you feel dizzy often.
6. Heart Issues
Over time, an irregular heartbeat can lead to an enlarged heart or even heart failure. That’s why it’s important to see your doctor if you develop this anemia symptom.
7. Cold Hands and Feet
Cold hands and feet are a common symptom of anemia that occurs because the body’s tissues aren’t getting enough oxygen. Poor circulation can compromise your ability to sense normal temperature. You may feel cold even if it’s hot outside.
8. Odd Cravings
Having low iron may trigger pica, the urge to eat or chew nonfood items with no nutritional value. Some people say they crave ice, dirt, clay, chalk, or paper. Doctors are unclear why these strange cravings affect people with an iron deficiency.
Research shows that the urge to eat or chew on ice affects about 25 percent of people who are iron-deficient.
9. Irritability or Depression
If you’re feeling unusually irritable or down, it could be a sign of low iron. A study published in 2020 found that adolescents with iron deficiency reported more irritability than their counterparts.
Other research has shown that people with iron deficiency are more likely to develop psychiatric disorders. There’s also evidence that treating iron deficiency can help improve symptoms like anxiety and sleeplessness. Researchers are continuing to study the link between mental health and low levels of iron.
10. Loss of Appetite
A poor appetite is a common symptom of anemia. A study published in 2020 suggests that some people with an iron deficiency don’t feel like eating because the condition causes changes in the hormone ghrelin, which helps increase hunger. Talk to your doctor if your appetite doesn’t improve or if you start losing weight without trying.
11. Hair and Nail Changes
12. Frequent Infections
You might get sick a lot if you have iron-deficiency anemia. That’s because when iron levels are low, your body’s immune cells don’t work to fight off infections as they should.
It’s important to wash your hands often and stay up to date on your vaccines if you have anemia.
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