00:00This segment is brought to you by Superfarm, your prescription of trust.
00:15Have you been feeling tired all the time, looking pale or getting short of breath when you're walking up the steps?
00:22You might be anemic and not even know it.
00:25Anemia is one of the most common blood conditions worldwide and tonight on House Call, we're going to talk about symptoms, what causes it and what you can do to screen for this condition.
00:37Anemia occurs when you don't have enough red blood cells to deliver oxygen to your tissues.
00:43This decrease can happen as a result of blood loss, increased destruction of the red blood cells or impaired production of your red blood cells.
00:53Some of the most common symptoms include fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, pale skin, cold hands or feet, shortness of breath, particularly on exertion, and in severe cases, chest pain or abnormal heartbeat.
01:11Some people may even crave ice.
01:14Now let's talk about some of the most common causes.
01:18Number one, iron deficiency.
01:20This is the most common cause.
01:22Usually, this is secondary to heavy periods or pregnancy in women.
01:27It can be as a result of poor diet or chronic blood loss, like if a person has an ulcer.
01:34Number two, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.
01:38These nutrients are important for the production of red blood cells.
01:42This type of deficiency may be accompanied with numbness or tingling.
01:47Number three, chronic diseases.
01:50Diseases like cancer, kidney disease or autoimmune conditions can interfere with red blood cell production.
01:59And number four, genetic conditions.
02:02Conditions like sickle cell anemia and thalazemia can affect the shape of the red blood cell and the way that oxygen is delivered to your tissues.
02:11So what can you do to diagnose or screen for anemia?
02:15Your doctor can order some blood tests, such as a complete blood count, iron studies, and blood tests to check your vitamin B12 and folate levels.
02:25Additional tests can be ordered depending on your symptoms.
02:28If you've been feeling more tired than usual, don't just brush it off.
02:34Anemia is common, but it's not normal.
02:37Early detection is key since anemia can be a part of an underlying condition.
02:43Ask your doctor today about what tests you can do.
02:46Let's stay informed, stay energized, and let's take control of our health.
02:52It's Dr. Mariana Brown for TB6 Health School.
02:56This segment was brought to you by Superfarm, your prescription of trust.
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