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Information about anaemia and how to treat it
Anaemia is a common blood condition that often develops gradually.
Symptoms
Symptoms of anaemia may include:
- dizziness or light-headedness
- headaches or difficulty concentrating
- pale skin
- shortness of breath, especially with activity
- tiredness or low energy.
When to see a doctor
Seek medical advice if you experience:
- chest pain, fainting or shortness of breath at rest
- severe fatigue affecting daily life.
Anaemia happens when your body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Common causes include:
- blood loss
- certain chronic medical conditions
- iron deficiency
- vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
- less commonly, bone marrow disorders.
Your doctor will usually start with:
- blood tests to measure your haemoglobin and iron levels
- additional tests to identify the underlying cause.
Treatment focuses on the cause and may include:
- treating any underlying condition, such as iron deficiency
- in some cases, blood transfusion.