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Anaemia
Anaemia is a low level of haemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying part of blood. It causes tiredness and breathlessness and has many causes, iron deficiency being the most common in India.
Causes & risk factors
- Iron deficiency (poor diet, blood loss, heavy periods)
- Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
- Chronic disease or kidney problems
- Blood loss from the gut
- Inherited conditions (such as thalassaemia)
Common symptoms
Tests & diagnosis
- CBC
- Haemoglobin
- Iron studies
- Vitamin B12
- Peripheral smear
- Stool test for blood
Treatment & management
- Treating the cause — iron, B12 or folate as needed
- Iron-rich or supplemented diet
- Finding and stopping any source of blood loss
- Treating chronic disease or kidney causes
- Blood transfusion only in severe cases
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe breathlessness, chest pain or fainting — urgent
- Persistent tiredness with pallor
- Black or bloody stools (a source of blood loss)
- Very heavy periods with tiredness
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common cause of anaemia?
Iron deficiency, from low dietary iron, blood loss or heavy periods, is the commonest cause. Blood tests identify the exact type so treatment can be targeted.
Can diet alone treat anaemia?
Mild iron-deficiency anaemia can improve with an iron-rich diet, but most people also need iron supplements and, importantly, treatment of the underlying cause.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.