Anemia

Updated: 2023-05-03

Description

A condition in which the blood doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells, to carry oxygen all through the body.

Overview

Anemia is a condition in which the blood doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin.

There are many forms of anemia. Each form has its own cause. Anemia can range from mild to severe. It can be short-term or long-lasting.

Symptoms

Sometimes anemia causes no symptoms. Symptoms that can occur include extreme tiredness, weakness and shortness of breath.

Treatments

Treatment depends on the cause. Treatments can include diet changes, supplements, medicines and medical procedures ranging from getting donated blood to having a stem cell transplant.