Anemia develops when a person’s red blood cell count falls below normal. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin (Hb), an iron-rich protein that transports oxygen to the body’s organs and muscles. When Hb levels drop, the body functions on less oxygen and has less energy. Left untreated, anemia can lead to serious complications. As the heart works abnormally hard to pump more blood (and oxygen) to the body, heart problems can develop. Symptoms of anemia include extreme fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, confusion, dizziness or fainting, pale skin, feeling cold, or depression. More than 100 types of anemia exist and can be caused by vitamin or iron deficiencies, blood loss, medication side effects, and genetic or acquired defects or disease.

When was the last time you had a routine physical that included blood tests. A complete blood count may indicate that there are fewer red blood cells than normal.

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