Anemia is a type of blood disorder that can be caused due to a deficiency of vital nutrients and minerals, or it could be a result of an underlying health complication. There are a few signs that you could look out for to identify the condition and take timely action to counter the blood loss. Here are a few of them:

1. Blood loss
Blood loss is the most important symptom of anemia. The risk is especially high in women who experience heavy periods. If your flow is too heavy or unusual, then immediate medical attention is advisable. This could indicate abnormalities in your body’s ability to absorb nutrients to support bone marrow function. This, coupled with abnormal bleeding, can diminish the quantity of blood faster than the bone marrow can produce it to replenish supply naturally.

2. Deteriorating skin and hair
Iron is one of the most essential nutrients that the body needs to absorb. The bone marrow particularly needs iron to produce and replenish the supply of red blood cells (RBC). Low levels of iron hamper this process and can trigger an anemic response. One of the more visual indicators of a developing anemic condition is the quality of skin and hair. With less blood coursing through the body, the skin and hair do not receive the nourishment they require to maintain the luster and quality of both. Your skin may turn pale and your hair may become dry and lose its texture completely. This is mainly due to a restrained supply of oxygenated blood to the follicles that support its growth.

3. Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom associated with many medical conditions. However, if you feel fatigued after a round of workout or doing some physical activity, then it indicates iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency results in an insufficient amount of hemoglobin, the vital protein that allows oxygen molecules to bond with the blood cells. Since red blood cells are tasked with circulating oxygenated blood throughout the body, a low RBC count can result in diluted fresh oxygen supply to the muscles and organs, thus resulting in their fatigue. Note that prolonged fatigue can result in organ failure, which is why this symptom should not be ignored.

4. Chest pain and heart palpitations
With a low RBC count, the heart must work overtime to pump blood throughout the body. This puts extreme pressure on the organ and forces the heart to beat faster than usual. Often, you might experience frequent palpitations as the blood levels in your body dilute rapidly. The straining of the organ can also cause chest pain and you may experience breathing difficulties due to the diminished flow of oxygenated blood. It is advisable to consult a specialist to understand the cause of an irregular heartbeat. Only screening tests and diagnosis can help narrow down these respiratory symptoms to anemia.