Anemia is a condition that occurs when your body lacks enough red blood cells (RBCs). These cells carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. As a result of low RBC, your body doesn’t get enough oxygen and has to work harder to carry out various functions.
But what does a low RBC count mean for your body? When you get tested for it, you might hear the terms hemoglobin (HGB) and hematocrit (HCT) thrown around. Hemoglobin is the protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen, and hematocrit is the percentage of your blood that’s made up of red blood cells.
As oxygen is essential for our body, symptoms of low RBC, hemoglobin, and hematocrit count can be mild or severe. If you experience such symptoms, consult a doctor for a checkup to be sure. In this blog, we’ll dive into the symptoms, causes, and what to watch out for in such cases.
Symptoms of Anemia
When your red blood cell count
is low, it can affect your body in many ways. It’s important to recognize these symptoms early so you can get proper care. Let's explore some of the most common signs of anemia:
1. Extreme Tiredness (Fatigue)
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of anemia is feeling unusually tired. As your body doesn’t get the oxygen it needs to produce energy, you’ll end up tired. You may feel worn out even after getting enough rest or struggle to complete daily activities.
2. Fast Heartbeat or Palpitations
In cases of low red blood cell count, your heart takes on a load to circulate the smaller amount of oxygenated blood throughout your body. It can cause your heart to beat faster than usual, which can result in palpitations or an irregular heartbeat.
3. Chest Pain
Along with a fast heartbeat, anemia can sometimes lead to chest pain. Your heart doesn’t get enough oxygen, especially during physical activities, so you may experience chest pain alongside other symptoms.
4. Shortness of Breath
You can also find yourself easily getting out of breath, even when performing simple tasks like walking or climbing stairs. It happens as your body tries to compensate for the lack of oxygen in your bloodstream.
5. Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded can be another sign of anemia. This happens because your brain isn't getting enough oxygen. You may feel like you’re fainting as you stand up too quickly, which could be due to anemia.
6. Swelling in the Hands or Feet
Sometimes, people with anemia notice swelling in their hands or feet. Your body tries to retain fluid when it adjusts to the lack of oxygen. You may see puffiness in these areas as a result of low red blood cell count.
7. Pale Skin, Nail Beds, Mouth, or Gums
Pale or ashen skin is a classic symptom of anemia. Your skin, especially around the nail beds, inside your mouth, or your gums, can lose its usual color due to the lack of RBC. This happens because red blood cells don’t function as they should.
8. Feeling Cold (Especially in Hands and Feet)
People with anemia often feel cold, particularly in their hands and feet. This happens because your body isn’t circulating enough oxygen to keep you warm. If you are constantly cold, even in normal temperatures, it might be due to low RBC.
In such cases of anemia symptoms, your body needs proper nutrition. Supply6 provides easily accessible nutrition such as this daily energy gel that you can use to manage your energy levels throughout the day.
So, what causes low red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit in the body? It should be noted that anemia doesn’t just appear out of nowhere. There are several underlying causes that you should be aware of. It can help you get to the root of the problem and get the correct treatment.
Causes of Anemia
Let's take a closer look at some of the common causes of low RBC:
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Cancers Affecting Bone Marrow
Bone marrow is responsible for making blood cells so any disease that affects it can cause RBC count to drop. Certain cancers, like leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma, can interfere with your bone marrow’s ability to produce red blood cells. It may weaken your body over time and cause fatigue and weakness.
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Blood Loss from Injury or Bleeding Tumors
Anemia can also result from blood loss after an injury or from internal bleeding caused by tumors. When your body loses blood faster than it can replace it, your RBC count drops. Make sure you address blood loss immediately.
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Cancer Treatments
While cancer treatments like radiation and chemotherapy are designed to target cancer cells, they can also affect your bone marrow. These treatments may slow down the production of red blood cells. If you're undergoing such treatments, it’s important to monitor your blood levels regularly and manage any symptoms of anemia.
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Bone Marrow Disorders
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of disorders that affect the bone marrow and produce abnormal or insufficient blood cells. People with MDS often experience low RBC counts, which can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and an increased risk of infections. With careful monitoring and treatment, you can manage MDS.
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Nutritional Deficiencies
A diet lacking essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, or folate can lead to anemia. Iron is needed to produce hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Similarly, vitamin B12 and folate are essential for red blood cell production.
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Medicines
Certain medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, aspirin, steroids, and even some antibiotics can lead to a reduction in RBC count if used over a long period. These medications may cause internal bleeding or affect your bone marrow.
You can maintain a steady intake of nutrients to alleviate some of the symptoms. To help you in your recovery or simply to maintain good health, opt for nutrient-rich, easy-to-consume options from Supply6.
Diagnosing anemia requires specific tests to find the root cause of low red blood cell (RBC) count. Let’s see how anemia symptoms are diagnosed.
Diagnosis of Anemia
Here’s a breakdown of the common diagnostic steps used to confirm a low RBC count:
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A CBC is one of the most common tests used to diagnose anemia. This blood test measures several components, such as your red blood cell count, hemoglobin (HGB) levels, and hematocrit (HCT) levels. Low readings may indicate anemia.
2. Blood Tests
Doctors may order additional blood tests to check your organ function and measure your levels of essential vitamins and minerals. Anemia can be due to a deficiency in iron, vitamin B12, or folate.
3. Tests on Body Fluids
Sometimes, anemia is caused by blood loss. Tests on body fluids, such as stool samples, can help identify hidden sources of bleeding, such as internal bleeding in the digestive tract.
4. Bone Marrow Biopsy
In some cases, doctors may recommend a bone marrow biopsy. As red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow, a biopsy can help identify bone marrow disorders, cancers affecting the bone marrow, or other issues.
5. Imaging Tests
If your doctor suspects internal bleeding, they may order imaging tests like an ultrasound, CT scan, or endoscopy. These tests can help locate areas of bleeding in your body, such as the stomach or intestines.
It’s helpful to understand the nutritional needs of your body and the best way to replenish them through food for a healthier lifestyle. Find out how healthy eating habits and nutrition knowledge can help you in your diagnosis.
Once anemia is diagnosed, it’s crucial to begin the right treatment. You will be recommended various treatments depending on the type and severity of anemia.
Let's explore some of the common treatments for low RBC count:
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Red Blood Cell Transfusions
In severe cases of anemia, a red blood cell transfusion may be necessary. This treatment quickly increases the number of healthy red blood cells in your body by introducing donated RBCs into your bloodstream.
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Iron Supplement Therapy
For those with anemia due to low iron levels, supplements, either in pill form or through intravenous (IV) therapy, can help replenish your iron stores and improve your RBC count.
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Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs)
ESAs are medications designed to stimulate your body’s production of red blood cells. They work by helping your bone marrow to make more RBCs. This can help people with chronic kidney disease or those undergoing chemotherapy.
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Vitamin B12 or Folic Acid Supplements
Supplementing is helpful for cases where anemia is caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folic acid. You may need to take them in pill form, through an injection, or via IV therapy.
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Adjustments in Chemotherapy or Other Cancer Treatments
For those undergoing cancer treatments, like chemotherapy, anemia can often be a side effect. In such cases, your doctor might adjust the dosage or type of treatment.
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Growth Factor Injections
Growth factor injections, such as granulocyte colony-stimulating factors, can help stimulate your bone marrow to produce more RBCs. These injections are typically used for people with certain conditions that affect the bone marrow or for those receiving chemotherapy.
For those diagnosed with anemia, there are practical steps you can take to manage it and improve your quality of life.
Tips for Managing Anemia
Managing anemia is about ensuring your body has the support it needs. It can be through diet or lifestyle adjustments. Here are some tips to properly manage low RBC count:
1. Eat Iron-Rich Foods
Red meat, fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, dark leafy greens (spinach, kale), beans, and fortified cereals are excellent sources of iron. Your body needs iron to produce healthy red blood cells, so make these foods a part of your regular meal. Pair these iron-rich foods with vitamin C (like citrus fruits) for better absorption.
2. Stay Hydrated
Water helps your body transport oxygen and nutrients. So drink enough fluids to support your circulation and prevent complications like dizziness or fatigue. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day, more if you’re active or in a hot climate.
3. Get Plenty of Sleep
Your body needs rest to heal and function properly. If you’re feeling unusually tired, take short naps during the day. Getting enough sleep at night is just as important.
4. Avoid Exhausting Activities
Avoid pushing yourself too hard with strenuous activities. Instead, pace yourself throughout the day and take breaks when you feel fatigued.
5. Help From Friends and Family
It’s okay to ask for help, whether it’s preparing meals, running errands, or handling household chores. Friends and family can help you reduce your stress and allow you to focus on your health.
6. Prevent Dizziness
To avoid sudden drops in blood pressure that create dizziness, change positions slowly. Take a moment to sit up on the edge of the bed or chair before standing up.
7. Discuss With Your Doctor
If you experience severe symptoms like unexplained bleeding, confusion, chest pain, or extreme fatigue, it’s important to contact your doctor immediately. Regular check-ups and communication with your healthcare provider are key to diagnosing and treating low RBC levels.
Managing any disease starts with a balanced and healthy diet. Make sure you understand the benefits of healthy food vs junk food and start making changes today for a better lifestyle.
When to Seek Medical Attention?
Here’s what you need to watch for:
- If you’re undergoing treatment for anemia but notice that your symptoms are not improving, consult your doctor.
- Bleeding from a cut or internal bleeding can quickly lead to dangerously low red blood cell counts.
- If you suddenly feel disoriented or confused, this could mean your brain isn’t getting enough oxygen.
- If you find yourself struggling to breathe while doing nothing, it’s a sign that your body isn’t getting enough oxygen.
- Anemia can put a strain on your heart. You may feel chest pain or notice an irregular heartbeat.
- Occasional dizziness or fatigue can happen with anemia. If you’re frequently feeling weak, short of breath, or experiencing heart palpitations or chest pain, it’s time to see your doctor.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
Track changes in your energy levels, mood, and physical signs like pale skin or dizziness, to catch symptoms early on. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help you adjust your treatment accordingly. Anemia can lead to serious complications if left unchecked.
Conclusion
Recognizing the symptoms of low RBC count and seeking timely medical care can prevent the condition from worsening and help you manage it more effectively. You can choose to treat through dietary changes, supplements, or medical treatments.
For individuals undergoing cancer treatment, regular follow-ups and monitoring is essential. Always consult with your healthcare provider and develop a plan that suits your unique needs. Remember, a well-balanced diet rich in iron, B12, and folate is very crucial.
Supply6’s range of nutritious meal replacement drinks offers a convenient way to get a balanced blend of essential vitamins and minerals your body requires, including iron, B12, and folate. These drinks are the secret weapon you need to keep your energy levels up and feel your best.