Anaemia is more common than you might think. People are often not even aware that they are suffering from anaemia and are constantly tired without seeing a cause.

 

In anaemia, the number of red blood cells is too low. Anaemia is caused by excessive blood loss, iron deficiency, internal bleeding, lack of vitamin C, copper or vitamin B6, poor absorption of nutrients in the small intestine, parasites or ulcers.

Chronic fatigue is only one symptom of anaemia. Other symptoms include yellowish eyes, yellowish, pale and cold skin, shortness of breath, muscle weakness, changes in stools, dizziness, low blood pressure, palpitations and an enlarged spleen. It is not uncommon for people with anaemia to feel the urge to chew non-edible objects.
However, tiredness is the most noticeable cause of anaemia, the kind of tiredness that makes getting up in the morning an almost insurmountable task. Sleep brings little rest and the tiredness and fatigue does not disappear throughout the day.

The only way to make a definitive diagnosis is through a blood test by a doctor. Anaemia must be treated, because the poor quality of the blood can make you seriously ill and even lead to death.

The treatment for anaemia is usually the intake of iron supplements and iron-rich foods and general multivitamin supplements. When taken regularly, these ensure the build-up of new blood cells.