Anemia

Anemia is a condition that occurs when the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to effectively carry oxygen to tissues and organs. When oxygen delivery is compromised, it can lead to fatigue, weakness, and more serious health complications. While over 400 different types of anemia have been identified, iron deficiency anemia is by far the most common, and in many cases, it’s easily treatable.

What Causes Anemia?

Iron deficiency is the leading nutritional deficiency worldwide, though it’s less prevalent in the U.S. Anemia may develop from a variety of underlying causes, including:

• Blood loss: This can result from internal bleeding, ulcers, heavy menstruation, childbirth, or certain types of cancer.

• Reduced red blood cell production: Conditions like vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, chronic illness, or inherited disorders such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia can affect how blood cells are made.

• Premature red blood cell destruction: Infections, autoimmune diseases, and exposure to toxins or certain medications can cause red blood cells to break down too quickly, called hemolysis.

• Chronic illness: chronic inflammation can affect the body’s ability to properly utilize iron for red blood cell production.
  
  

Recognizing the Symptoms of Anemia

Symptoms of anemia can vary depending on severity and underlying cause. Common signs include:

• Persistent fatigue

• Pale skin or gums

• Shortness of breath

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Cold hands and feet

• Restless legs

• Rapid heartbeat

• Difficulty concentrating

Severe anemia can lead to serious complications such as heart problems. That’s why it’s important not to ignore ongoing symptoms and to seek professional evaluation.

Diagnostic Testing for Anemia

If you suspect anemia, blood testing is a critical first step toward diagnosis and proper treatment. At DirectLabs®, we offer a range of lab tests that can help pinpoint the type and cause of anemia:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures overall red blood cell levels.

• Ferritin: Reflects stored iron in the body.

• Transferrin Saturation: Helps assess iron transport efficiency.

• Vitamin B12 and Folate: Essential for healthy red blood cell formation.

Identifying the root cause of anemia is essential especially because iron supplementation isn’t appropriate for every type. In fact, some individuals with anemia may simultaneously have excess iron stores, making indiscriminate supplementation potentially harmful.

Get Answers with Convenient, Affordable Testing

DirectLabs® provides easy access to the tests you need to understand your health. With no doctor visit required, you can order blood tests online and get fast, reliable results. Our Anemia Panel combines several important markers to give you and your healthcare provider a clearer picture of your red blood cell health.

Take control of your health today—because when it comes to anemia, knowledge really is power.