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Health Tip: Are You Anemic?

(HealthDay News) -- Anemia occurs either when the blood is deficient in red blood cells, or it lacks enough of a protein called hemoglobin.

Some forms of anemia can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says.

Here's the agency's list of warning signs that you may be anemic:

  • Feeling tired and weak.

  • Experiencing paleness, dizziness, headache or shortness of breath.

  • Having a lower than normal body temperature.

  • Having cold or numb hands and feet.

  • Having pains in your chest, or a very fast or abnormal heartbeat.

  • Feeling irritable.

  • Doing poorly at work or school.

Online Medical Reviewer: Sylvia Byrd, RN, BSN, MBA
Online Medical Reviewer: Daphne Pierce-Smith, RN, MSN, FNP, CCRC
Last Annual Review Date: 12/3/2008