SmartEngageTM

Anemia

Anemia happens when blood does not have enough red blood cells to properly carry oxygen to your organs and tissues. Because your body does not get enough oxygen, you feel tired. Feeling tired is one of the primary symptoms of anemia.

Your blood contains three types of cells: white blood cells, which fight off infection; platelets, which help blood to clot; and red blood cells, which carry oxygen from your lungs throughout your body. Red blood cells are made in your bone marrow. They contain hemoglobin, an iron-based protein that helps blood cells carry oxygen. With anemia, your body either does not make enough red blood cells, or loses them faster than they can be replaced.

There are several types of anemia. The most common type is iron-deficiency anemia, which is caused by a lack of iron in your body.

Other types include:

I Would Like to Learn About:

Conditions with Similar Symptoms

View Conditions

Related Information

Herbs

Burdock Dandelion

Supplements

Alpha-linolenic acid Gamma-linolenic acid Iron Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-6 fatty acids Spirulina Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) Vitamin B9 (Folic acid) Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid)

Learn More About

Herbal medicine Homeopathy Nutrition

Review Date: 12/19/2015  

Reviewed By: Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, Solutions Acupuncture, a private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2024 A.D.A.M., a business unit of Ebix, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

A.D.A.M. content is best viewed in IE9 or above, Firefox and Google Chrome browser.