Do you feel all the time tired , here is why?

Contributed by 

Dr. Vipul Agarwal M.B;B.S  MD(Internal Medicine)

Department of Internal Medicine, Yenepoya medical college, Mangaluru

E-mail: vipul.msrmc@gmail.com

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One of the important  causes of your easy fatigability, irritability, loss of interest in work, poor concentration,poor academic performance  could be  anemia .  It is a very common problem in general public especially  adolescents, females and growing children. 

Anemia is the term used ,  when a person does not have enough of something called “hemoglobin” in their blood. Hemoglobin helps red blood cells carry oxygen to all parts of the body. If your hemoglobin level is low, your body might not get all the oxygen it needs.The result is easy  fatigability.

In severe cases, it can even present as breathlessness, imbalance, tingling and numbness of limbs. A vast majority of patients suffering from mild to moderate anemia  keep blaming themselves for their underperformance, not knowing they have anemia. Scholastic Underperformance is blamed upon the students without parents and teachers knowing their wards may be anemic.

We, as doctors and patients, need to identify 

Anemia at an early stage and treat it.

Anemia is largely nutritional, due to lack of iron in the routine diet, worm infestations in bowel leading to blood loss and nutrient deficiencies in developing countries , lack of vitamin B12 in vegetarian diet, blood loss due to menstruation or ulcer in stomach and intestine. Every anemic patient should undergo a thorough physical examination and investigations to find out the cause of anemia and then to be treated  accordingly. 

Is there a test for anemia?

Yes, your doctor can test your blood for anemia. The things they most often check is the full blood counts  “hemoglobin” , WBC , platelets etc   . Depending upon clinical history and examination further tests may be required .    

What are vitamin B12 deficiency and folate deficiency?

Vitamin B12 and folate are 2 different vitamins that your body needs to work normally. A “deficiency” means that your body does not have as much of something as it needs.

What are the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency and folate deficiency?

A deficiency of vitamin B12, folate, or both can cause low blood counts. Your doctor can check this by doing a blood test. A low blood count can affect 1 or more of the following:

• Red blood cells – Doctors use the term “anemia” when a person has too few red blood cells.
• White blood cells – A low white blood cell count can increase your risk of infection.
• Platelets – A low platelet count might increase your risk of bleeding.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause other symptoms related to the brain and nerves. They include:

• Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
• Trouble walking
• Mood changes
• Memory problems or trouble thinking clearly

People can have vitamin B12 deficiency, folate deficiency, or both.

First step to avoid anemia is to eat food rich in iron, vitamin b12 ,folic acid etc

Identification and treatment of anemia is crucial for the development of society. If you notice above symptoms in yourself or your loved ones, consult your physician.

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