Anaemia is a medical condition characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells (RBCs) or a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein inside RBCs that delivers oxygen to different tissues and organs throughout the body. Anaemia occurs when the body cannot produce enough RBCs, when RBCs are destroyed faster than they are produced, or when there is excessive bleeding leading to a loss of RBCs.
This condition can result from various factors including nutritional deficiencies (such as iron, vitamin B12, and folate), chronic diseases (like kidney disease or cancer), hormonal disorders (for instance, hypothyroidism), or other underlying health problems. Symptoms of anaemia may include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, pale skin, headaches, and rapid or irregular heartbeat. The severity and specific symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause and the extent of the deficiency or loss of RBCs.
Several diagnostic tests, including blood tests, may be used to confirm the presence of anaemia and determine its cause. Treatment typically focuses on addressing the underlying cause of anaemia and may involve dietary modifications, nutritional supplements, medications, or, in some cases, blood transfusions or other medical procedures.
Overall, anaemia is a medical condition characterized by a reduced number of RBCs or a lack of hemoglobin in the blood, leading to symptoms related to decreased oxygen transport throughout the body.
