Anemia / Low Hemoglobin

Dr. Sanoop Kumar Sherin Sabu

Many people comes with complaints of generalized tiredness and weakens. On  check-ups hey tare found to have low hemoglobin levels. Some of them may not have any complaints but on general health check are found to have low hemoglobin levels.

This condition of low blood haemoglobin levels  in blood is called anaemia. In simple terms, normal Haemoglobin should be above 12.5 mg/dl. When it is less than 12.5mg/dl , it is called anaemia.

A low hemoglobin can make you feel tired.

What are the reasons for anaemia ?

There are different reasons for low hemoglobin. It is not always due to low iron in blood. The reasons for anemia can be poor diet, diet lacking iron or vitamins, blood loss, increased menstrual flow, cancers , kidney disease, etc

How can you find out?

A simple blood test called CBC will give the accurate value of haemoglobin levels. If it is less than 12.5mg/dl get the help of an physician to get evaluated for the reason.

What are the daily measures to increased Haemoglobin levels?

 After finding out the reason for your anemia, in daily life, measures like intake of diet rick in iron like spinach, green leafy vegetables, drumstick, meat, meat liver can be helpful. (But in some people with hemolytic anemias we avoid iron rich food).

Who needs detailed check-ups?

In some people in spite of adequate diet the blood hemoglobin levels will remain low. These are the individuals who will need detailed check-ups to find the reason for low hemoglobin. There is a panel of detailed investigations to be done to find out the reason for anemia.

How long should you take treatment for anaemia?

It depends on the cause of your anaemia. It can be up to 3 to 6 months if it is due to low iron in your body. It can be life long treatment in some rare causes.

Is blood transfusion needed for anaemia?

Blood transfusion is generally advised if hemoglobin is very low or you are planned for some surgeries.

If anemia is not treated it can cause heart failure, growth delays, breathing difficulty, chest pain, tiredness and giddiness of head. In children anemia correction is very important to prevent growth delays.


If you feel you have anemia consult a Physician to get Evaluated and Treated.


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