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Anaemia in Children
Anaemia means too few healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen, most often from a lack of iron. It is very common in Indian children and usually easy to treat.
Causes & risk factors
- Iron deficiency — the most common cause
- A diet low in iron-rich foods
- Worm infestation causing blood loss
- Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
- Inherited conditions such as thalassaemia
- Chronic illness
Common symptoms
- Tiredness and weakness
- Pale skin, lips or nails
- Breathlessness on activity
- Dizziness
- Poor appetite and slow growth
- Poor concentration at school
Tests & diagnosis
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Haemoglobin
- Iron studies / ferritin
- Vitamin B12
- Stool test for worms
Treatment & management
- Iron-rich foods: green leafy vegetables, pulses, jaggery, eggs, meat
- Iron supplements as prescribed — dose is weight-based, confirm with a doctor
- Vitamin C with meals helps iron absorption
- Treat worms if present
- Treat B12 or folate deficiency if found
- Recheck blood counts to confirm improvement
When to see a doctor urgently
- Marked pallor, breathlessness or a racing heart — get seen
- Fainting or extreme tiredness
- Poor growth or persistent poor appetite
- Anaemia not improving with iron treatment
Frequently asked questions
What foods help my child’s iron levels?
Green leafy vegetables, pulses and lentils, jaggery, eggs and, if eaten, meat and fish are good sources. Pairing them with vitamin C foods (like citrus) boosts absorption.
How long does treatment take?
Haemoglobin often starts rising within weeks of starting iron, but treatment is usually continued for a few months to rebuild stores. Follow your doctor’s advice and recheck as suggested.
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.