Symptom 3. Breathlessness: Gasping for Air Amidst Anemia
Another hallmark symptom of severe anemia is shortness of breath, which could leave you gasping for air even after light exertion. Our lungs play a vital role in oxygenating the blood, which is then transported to various body parts by the red blood cells. However, when you’re anemic, this oxygen transport is compromised due to the deficiency of red blood cells.
Shortness of breath occurs because your body is trying to compensate for the lack of oxygenated blood by breathing more rapidly and deeply. This increased respiratory effort aims to draw more oxygen into the lungs and bloodstream. However, this compensatory mechanism can make you feel breathless even after performing simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even talking.
The severity of breathlessness often correlates with the severity of anemia. Those with mild anemia may only experience breathlessness during strenuous activities, while those with severe anemia may struggle to breathe even at rest. This constant struggle for air can be highly distressing, impacting your daily life and mental wellbeing.
Moreover, persistent breathlessness can lead to other complications like rapid heart rate and low blood pressure. It can also affect your sleep, causing conditions like sleep apnea where breathing stops and starts repeatedly during sleep. This can lead to poor sleep quality, causing fatigue, irritability, and other health issues.
Despite the discomfort and complications associated with breathlessness, the good news is that it’s reversible. With the right treatment and management of anemia, this symptom can be controlled, allowing you to breathe easy again. Unexplained shortness of breath is a dangerous sign. These gasping moments for air shouldn’t be ignored as it could be your body’s cry for help, signaling the possibility of severe anemia. (3)
