Anemia is a common illness in which people have a shortage of red blood cells. Although it is common, it can be extremely serious. Because these blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body, this disease leads to cells throughout the body failing to get the amount of oxygen they need to function well.
In most cases, anemia is caused by a deficiency of iron in the diet. Iron is used to make hemoglobin, which is the part of the red blood cell that carries oxygen. Blood is pumped from the heart to the lungs, where it is oxygenated. From there, the oxygenated blood is carried throughout the body. Anemic blood simply cannot carry as much oxygen, so people with this disease will often feel like they have poor circulation.
Deficiencies of the blood are usually very easily treated. When it is caused by a deficiency of iron, it can be resolved quickly with a simple multivitamin. Many people do not realize that they are anemic and live with the signs and symptoms for years. If you have any of the following symptoms, see your doctor to find out the root cause.
Cold Hands and Feet
Hands and feet are exposed to the elements more than other parts of the body and must work hard to stay warm. Because your cells are not getting as much oxygen as they need, they may struggle to perform these basic functions. The result is feeling cold much of the time, even when other people have toasty warm extremities. In extreme cases, people may even have cold hands and feet when it is warm outside.
Having cold hands and feet can be more than an inconvenience. It can lead to damage in the delicate tissues of these body parts or even permanent nerve damage. People who suffer from this problem should have their iron levels tested so they can find the root cause of their icy limbs.
