The word anemia conjures up thoughts of fatigue and loss of energy. But although being overly tired is one of the classic signs, it is hardly the only one. Chances are that you will feel depressed and irritable as well. And it is no wonder – who would not be depressed and irritable after weeks of feeling run-down all the time? Unlike many common health problems, iron-deficiency anemia is more a disease of youth than of older ages. Its favorite victims are babies, children, teenage girls, and of course, pregnant women. And it is no stranger to any part of the world. Anemia is common in both rich and poor countries, although, not surprisingly, the problem is greatest in developing areas. In some underdeveloped areas, as many as 50 percent of the children and women of childbearing age may be affected. Fortunately, the chances of anemia decrease once a woman passes menopause, as she no longer loses iron during menstruation. Anemia after menopause may be a warning sign of a more serious condition that is causing abnormal loss of blood. In these cases, as with anemic men, the doctor’s first job is to rule out the presence of an underlying disease. |
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