Anaemia is a health condition in which the number of red blood cells or their capacity to carry oxygen becomes insufficient; this leads to their inability to meet physiological needs, varying by age, sex, altitude, smoking, and even the status of pregnancy. Iron deficiency is often called to be the most common cause of anaemia. Conditions like the folate, vitamin B12 and other vitamin deficiencies, and chronic inflammation, parasitic infections, and inherited disorders can also cause anaemia. People have a tendency to treat anaemia lightly. However, one should know that anaemia, when left untreated, can lead to a host of problems that cannot be undone. If you see a dip in your numbers, you should consult your physician soon, for you could be at the risk of the following:
1. Organ damage
Anaemia reduces the amount of oxygen that is carried to various body parts. Hence, it can lead to organ damage. Heart damage is a major risk associated with it since the heart has to work harder to compensate for the fewer blood cells and lesser haemoglobin thereby adding more stress to the heart muscles.
2. Premature birth
Buying the pregnancy test kit online, making it to all the checkups on time doesn’t mean much if the expecting mother has anaemia and she is not taking the required medication. In pregnant women, untreated anaemia can lead to the premature birth of the baby, leaving the baby under-nourished and weak. It can also result in low birth weight of the baby, and in extreme cases, even infant death. So if the blood tests show a low haemoglobin count, speak to your gynaecologist for the best measures that need to be taken.
3. Heart attack
Possible complications of anaemia are heart and lung problems because of the additional strain and pressure on the body when the iron isn’t enough. Patients with acute anaemia must keep ambu bag parts at home in case of emergencies. If anaemia isn’t treated, it can also lead to abnormal heartbeat condition, known as tachycardia, or even heart failure at times. Other complications that can arise are heart attack, arrhythmia, and angina.
4. Fatigue
A prolonged case of untreated anaemia can lead to the symptoms getting worse with every passing day. There can be a case of excessive fatigue causing lethargy and quick and massive loss of energy. This can often lead to interruptions in everyday life through fainting spells and body weakness.
5. General discomfort
Along with chest pains and dizziness, a person suffering from anaemia can also experience shortness of breath. Patients often complain of being aware of their heart palpitations. People start looking pale, and the lighter complexion is a result of reduced blood flow and oxygen due to the decreased number of red blood cells. In some cases, people also develop headaches, altered taste, itchiness, or an abnormally smooth tongue. People may experience hair loss, difficulty in swallowing, painful open sores and spoon-shaped nails if it isn’t cured and treated for a long time. All these symptoms and discomfort are signs of general weakness in the body. In conclusion, never underestimate the dangers untreated anaemia can pose. Connect with your physicians and follow the remedial measures at the earliest.
