The human body requires healthy red blood cells (RBCs) to transport oxygen to organs and tissues. Sadly, conditions like anemia prevent adequate production of RBCs, which obstructs this natural process. Anemia can result from several factors, such as poor food habits and infections. A simple way to manage the blood disorder is to identify it early and seek treatment immediately. Here are seven warning signs of anemia one should know.

1. Trouble focusing
An insufficient supply of oxygen to a person’s internal organs may lead to the deterioration of their physical and mental health. As a result, someone suffering from anemia might find it difficult to focus or get distracted often, even when performing simple tasks.

2. Pica syndrome
Those with anemia may crave unusual, non-nutritional items like ice and baking soda. This condition is known as Pica syndrome. One may also crave other non-food items like dirt, paper, and chalk. Experts say these cravings occur as the body tries to compensate for iron deficiency. One should speak to a healthcare expert if they experience this syndrome and its associated symptoms.

3. Pale complexion
When affected by anemia, a person’s capillaries (located under the skin) have lesser RBCs or RBCs that function inefficiently. Consequently, their skin loses its natural pink tint and turns pale. The paleness could be limited to one region or spread to all body areas, including the face, gums, fingernails, and inside the lips or lower eyelids.

4. Fatigue
It is normal for a person to feel fatigued after a stressful day at work. However, if someone notices this sign out of the ordinary, even after a good night’s sleep, it could indicate the onset of anemia. Fatigue is triggered due to the reduced and compromised RBCs in a person’s body. These cells cannot efficiently carry oxygen to the organs, causing them to function poorly.

5. Trouble breathing
People who suffer from anemia may have trouble breathing. The symptom arises because the lungs work harder than usual. They try to carry more oxygen to the body’s tissues in the absence of healthy RBCs. Even slight exertion may trigger shortness of breath.

6. Cold hands and feet
Those affected by anemia may notice their hands and feet turning unusually cold. The lack of blood supply to the limbs is the most common trigger of this symptom. Individuals must seek a healthcare expert’s opinion if they develop cold hands and feet. The lack of blood and oxygen in the limbs may also trigger severe cramps and weakness, which are contributing factors to insomnia.

7. Palpitations
Rapid heartbeat and palpitations combined with feelings of anxiety might point toward the onset of anemia. The lack of oxygen supply triggered by anemia causes the heart to work harder. Consequently, the organ beats faster and irregularly, causing pain. A consistently rapid heart rate is unhealthy and must be reported to a healthcare professional without delay. The expert will recommend suitable tests to identify the cause of the symptom and develop a treatment plan accordingly.