Signs and symptoms
Overall symptoms will vary according to the type and underlying cause of anaemia. Symptoms may be mild at first, but will typically worsen as the condition worsens and include signs of cardiac-related difficulties in the body (due to the lack of oxygen in the blood and the heart having to work harder to pump blood to the body’s organs).
General symptoms may include:
- A pale complexion or yellowish colour to the skin (jaundice)
- Fatigue and body weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeats, heart murmurs or an increased heart rate
- Light-headedness or a dizzy sensation
- Headache
- Chest pain
- Cold or numb hands and feet
- Unusual cravings (such as ice, dirt or clay)
- Concentration problems
- Constipation
- Fainting (severe cases of anaemia)
- Brittle nails
- High or low blood pressure
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Enlarged spleen or liver
- Cracked or reddened tongue
- Loss of appetite
- Black or tarry stools (sticky and foul smelling) / bloody or maroon-coloured stools
Anaemia signs and symptoms should always be evaluated and monitored by a medical professional. It is often the case that anaemia is an indication of an underlying condition that requires medical intervention and treatment. Once a cause is determined through a physical exam and testing, treatment can be effectively implemented without a high risk of complications.