Why anemia causes lack of energy

Low iron can cause fatigue. Here's what to do if you think your tiredness is the result of iron-deficiency anemia. Featured Content. See how to work out safely and live an active life. Caudle explains how impaired kidney function can impact your red blood cell count. Living Well With Anemia. The gums can turn pale for several reasons. Pale gums around the teeth may indicate anemia, which is often caused by a lack of iron, folate, or…. Nutritional-deficiency anemia happens when the body does not get enough iron or a few other nutrients from the diet.

Learn more, including how to…. A variety of conditions and lifestyle factors can lead to a reduction in hemoglobin. Common causes include anemia, pregnancy, and thyroid conditions…. What to know about anemia. Share on Pinterest A person with anemia may experience fatigue, an irregular heartbeat, and chest pain. Causes and types. Risk factors. Latest news Could 'cupping' technique boost vaccine delivery?

Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes. Adolescent depression: Could school screening help? Related Coverage. Everything you need to know about iron. Medically reviewed by Judith Marcin, M. Serum iron test: High, low, and normal ranges. Medically reviewed by Stacy Sampson, D. What causes pale gums? However, it is possible for some people with iron deficiency to experience low energy alongside weakness , irritability, or difficulty concentrating 4. Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of iron deficiency.

This is due to less oxygen reaching body tissues, depriving them of energy. Skin that is paler than usual and pale coloring of the inside of the lower eyelids are other common symptoms of iron deficiency 5 , 6.

The hemoglobin in red blood cells gives blood its red color, so low levels during iron deficiency make the blood less red. A study in children ages 6 to 11 found that paleness associated with iron deficiency may appear all over the body or be limited to one area, such as the 7 :.

This is often one of the first things doctors will look for as a sign of iron deficiency. However, it should be confirmed with a blood test 6. Paleness is more commonly seen in moderate or severe cases of anemia 7. If you pull your lower eyelid down, the inside layer should be a vibrant red color.

If it is a very pale pink or yellow color, this may indicate that you have iron deficiency. In people with darker skin tones, this may be the only area where it is noticeable. Skin that is paler than usual in areas such as the face, lower inner eyelids, or nails may be a sign of moderate or severe iron deficiency. This is caused by lower levels of hemoglobin, which gives blood its red color.

When hemoglobin levels are low during iron deficiency, oxygen levels will also be low. As a result, your breathing rate will increase as your body tries to get more oxygen.

This is why shortness of breath is a common symptom 2. If you find yourself out of breath when doing normal, daily tasks that you used to find easy, such as walking, climbing stairs, or working out, iron deficiency could be to blame. Shortness of breath is a symptom of iron deficiency, since low hemoglobin levels mean your body cannot effectively transport oxygen to your muscles and tissues. Iron deficiency may cause headaches , particularly in women 5 , 9.

While the link between iron deficiency and headaches is still unclear, researchers theorize there are several factors at play, including the relationship between altered dopamine function and estrogen levels. However, more research needs to be done before a conclusion can be made Although there are many causes of headaches, frequent, recurrent headaches could be a symptom of iron deficiency. Headaches can be a symptom of iron deficiency. More research is being done to look at the connection between dopamine dysfunction, estrogen levels, and iron deficiency.

Noticeable heartbeats, also known as heart palpitations , can be another symptom of iron deficiency anemia. The association between iron deficiency, anemia, and heart problems is still being studied, but it may be related to oxygen supply Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that helps transport oxygen around the body.

In iron deficiency, low levels of hemoglobin mean the heart has to work extra hard to carry oxygen. In extreme cases, it can lead to an enlarged heart , a heart murmur , or heart failure 12 , In cases of iron deficiency, the heart has to work extra hard to transport oxygen around the body.

Restless Legs Syndrome Some people who have iron deficiency develop restless legs syndrome , a disorder that causes you to have a strong urge to move your legs. The urge often comes with an unpleasant, crawling sensation in the legs that can make it hard to sleep. Pica People with iron deficiency may develop cravings for non-food substances, such as clay, dirt, or chalk, a condition known as pica. However, submitting to your cravings and eating these substances could be harmful, as it may lead to the ingestion of harmful toxins and substances.

Hair loss Iron deficiency, especially when it develops into anemia , can cause hair loss. It is normal to lose about strands of hair per day. However, if you notice your hair loss is excessive and it is not growing back, this may be a sign of iron deficiency. He or she can help you get to the root cause of your iron deficiency, find ways to include more iron-rich foods in your diet, and determine whether you need to take supplemental iron.

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