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Types of Anemia

Dear Anai,

I have been so tired lately! I went to my doctor for advice, and she said I could have anemia. She ordered a blood test, but said she won't know what type of anemia I have until the results are back in. i didn't know there was more than one type. Can you tell me what types of anemia there are?

Thank you,

Rita from Michigan

Answer:

Anemia is basically a deficiency in the number of red blood cells. The following are the most common types of anemia:

Iron Deficiency Anemia: This is the most common type of anemia known. It affects up to 30% of the adults in the United States alone. It is most common in pre-menopausal women, adolescents, and infants. This type of anemia is a result of poor diet, abnormal chronic blood loss, iron malabsorption and of course, pregnancy.

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia include:

• Fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Shortness of breath
• Pallor
• Listlessness
• Frequent headaches
• Irritability

Taking vitamin C along with your iron supplements will help your body absorb the iron more efficiently. Make sure to follow your doctors instructions carefully. Ask for a liquid form of iron, as it is it absorbed much quicker than tablets.

Folic Acid Deficiency Anemia: Folic acid is not only necessary for prevention of spina bifida in unborn babies, but also a necessity for blood cell production in adults. Folic Acid Deficiency Anemia appears more often in pregnant or lactating women. Also found in alcoholics, the elderly and those with serious intestinal disorders. This form of anemia gradually progresses. The symptom you may notice are:

• Shortness of breath
• Weakness
• Sore tongue
• Appetite loss
• Forgetfulness
• Palpitations
• Frequent headaches

©1996 Anai Rhoads.