Anaemia: symptoms, causes and what you can do about it

Anemia is a common condition that occurs when the body does not produce enough healthy red blood cells, or there is a deficiency of hemoglobin, the protein in blood cells responsible for oxygen transport. Do you often feel tired, less capable, or noticeably pale? These symptoms are often attributed to lack of sleep or stress but can also be signs of anemia. Indeed, 37% of pregnant women and 30% of women between 15 and 49 years globally suffer from anemia, highlighting the importance of a better understanding of this condition (WHO, 2023). In this blog, we will explore the causes and symptoms of anemia and explain how it is diagnosed and treated.

Table of Content

• What is anaemia?

• The role of haemoglobin and red blood cells

• Normal haemoglobin values: what do the numbers mean?

• What causes anaemia?

• How to recognise anaemia: symptoms to watch for

• When does anaemia become serious?

• What can you do about anaemia?

• How is anaemia diagnosed and can you test at home?

• Frequently asked questions about anaemia

• Summary: the key points about anaemia

What is anaemia?

Anemia is a health condition characterized by a deficiency of hemoglobin, the red blood pigment, or an insufficient number of healthy red blood cells. Hemoglobin is a crucial protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen from the lungs to various organs and tissues in the body. A lack of hemoglobin or an inadequate number of red blood cells leads to insufficient oxygen supply to the body, causing a range of symptoms. The relationship between the number of red blood cells and the level of hemoglobin is not always direct. A reduction in hemoglobin can occur even when the number of red blood cells is normal or elevated, indicating different types of anemia (NHLBI, 2022). 

The role of haemoglobin and red blood cells

Red blood cells (erythrocytes) make up nearly half of your blood and are produced in the bone marrow. They are disc-shaped cells that play an essential role in the body.

Each red blood cell contains haemoglobin, an iron-rich protein that gives blood its red colour. Haemoglobin carries oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues and helps remove carbon dioxide by transporting it back to the lungs.

When there are not enough red blood cells, oxygen cannot be transported effectively, which can lead to anaemia.

Source: Healthdirect Australia, 2023

Normal haemoglobin values: what do the numbers mean?

• Low: below the normal range
• Borderline low: just under the lower limit

• Severely low: significantly below normal and often symptomatic

Keep in mind that reference ranges can vary slightly between laboratories. Results should always be interpreted in context by a healthcare professional. Older adults (65+) are particularly at risk.

Source: Turner J et al., 2023; Mayo Clinic, 2023.  

What causes anaemia?

Anaemia can develop for several different reasons, and identifying the underlying cause is key to effective treatment.

Iron deficiency: the most common cause

Iron deficiency anaemia is the most common type of anaemia. Iron is essential for making haemoglobin, and without enough iron, the body cannot produce enough haemoglobin for red blood cells.

A shortage of iron can result from:

• Low iron intake in the diet
• Pregnancy (especially without iron supplementation)
• Blood loss, such as:
  • heavy menstrual bleeding
  • ulcers or cancer
  • regular use of certain pain relievers (e.g. aspirin)

Vitamin B12 and folate deficiency

In addition to iron, the body needs vitamin B12 and folate to produce healthy red blood cells. A lack of these nutrients can lead to vitamin deficiency anaemia.

This can be caused by:

• A diet lacking key nutrients
• Problems absorbing vitamin B12
• Pernicious anaemia (a condition affecting B12 absorption)

Other causes: chronic disease, blood disorders and inherited conditions

Anaemia can also result from a range of underlying conditions, including:

• Chronic diseases and inflammation (e.g. cancer, kidney disease, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, HIV/AIDS)
• Bone marrow disorders (e.g. leukaemia, myelofibrosis)
• Aplastic anaemia (when the body does not make enough new blood cells)
• Haemolytic anaemia (red blood cells destroyed faster than they are replaced)
• Inherited conditions such as sickle cell anaemia

Many of these causes can be identified through medical testing.

Source: Mayo Clinic, 2023.

How to recognise anaemia: symptoms to watch for

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent fatigue
• Pale or yellowish skin
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeat
• Cold hands and feet
• Headaches

As anemia progresses, symptoms often worsen, and additional complaints such as:

• Brittle nails
• Mouth sores
• Poor appetite
• Cravings for non-food items (pica)
• Smooth, red tongue

Symptoms can vary depending on the cause and severity. Mild anaemia may not cause noticeable symptoms at all. However, persistent or worsening symptoms should always be checked with a blood test. If you are unsure or experiencing symptoms, it is crucial to consult a doctor to determine the causes.

Source: Mayo Clinic, 2023.  

When does anaemia become serious?

Untreated anaemia can lead to serious health problems

• Severe anaemia can cause extreme tiredness, making daily tasks difficult
• The heart may have to pump more blood, leading to:
  • rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • enlarged heart
  • heart failure
• Anaemia in pregnancy may increase the risk of premature birth
• Severe cases (e.g. rapid blood loss or inherited conditions) can be life-threatening

Source: Mayo Clinic, 2023

What can you do about anaemia?

Practical steps you can take:

• Eat iron-rich foods (red meat, legumes, leafy greens, fortified cereals)

• Combine iron with vitamin C (e.g. citrus fruits) to improve absorption

• Ensure enough vitamin B12 (animal products or supplements if vegan)

• Include folate-rich foods (vegetables, wholegrains, legumes)

• See a GP if symptoms persist or worsen

Treatment depends on the cause; iron supplements won’t help if the issue is B12 deficiency, for example.

Source: McDermott, 2023

How is anaemia diagnosed and can you test at home?

Anaemia is usually diagnosed through a blood test that measures haemoglobin levels, red blood cell count and related markers such as ferritin (iron stores), vitamin B12 and folate.

A GP can order this test, but home testing is also becoming more common. With a finger-prick blood test, you can check your levels from home and send the sample to a certified laboratory. Results are reliable and convenient; especially if you prefer to avoid waiting times or want a quick check.

Frequently asked questions about anaemia

What is anaemia and how does it differ from iron deficiency?

Anaemia is a condition where your blood carries less oxygen due to low haemoglobin or red blood cells. Iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of anaemia, but not the only one. Other causes include other nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, chronic diseases, gynaecological and obstetric conditions, and inherited red blood cell disorders (WHO, n.d.).

What haemoglobin level is considered too low?

A haemoglobin level below the normal range for your age and sex is considered low. The exact threshold varies slightly, but generally below 12 gm/dL in women and 13 gm/dL in men is considered anaemia (Cleveland Clinic, 2022).

Can anaemia cause headaches and cold hands?

Yes, both are common symptoms. Reduced oxygen delivery can lead to headaches, while poor circulation may cause cold hands and feet (Mayo Clinic, 2023).

Can tingling be a symptom of anaemia?

Yes, particularly in vitamin B12 deficiency. This can affect the nervous system and cause tingling, numbness or balance problems (Mayo Clinic, 2025).

When should I see a doctor about anaemia?

You should see a doctor if you have persistent symptoms like fatigue or dizziness, or if symptoms worsen. Urgent care is needed for severe symptoms like chest pain or fainting (Mayo Clinic, 2023).

Can I test for anaemia at home?

Yes, home blood tests are available and can measure relevant markers. They offer a convenient way to check your levels without visiting a clinic.

Are older adults more at risk?

Yes, older adults (over 65) are at increased risk of anaemia (Mayo Clinic, 2023).

Summary: the key points about anaemia

Anaemia is a common condition where the blood carries less oxygen due to low haemoglobin or red blood cells. Symptoms often include fatigue, dizziness and shortness of breath, but they can vary depending on the cause. The most frequent causes are iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency and chronic disease. While mild anaemia is usually manageable, severe cases can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

The good news is that anaemia is often very treatable once the cause is identified. If you’re experiencing symptoms or simply want clarity, testing your haemoglobin levels—whether through your GP or a home test—is a simple and effective first step.