Vitamin-Deficiency Anemia

Introduction

Vitamin-deficiency anemia happens when your body does not have enough essential vitamins to make healthy red blood cells. Without these vitamins, your body struggles to carry oxygen properly, leading to fatigue and weakness.

 Causes

• Lack of Vitamin B12 (common in strict vegetarian or vegan diets)

• Lack of Folate (Vitamin B9)

• Poor diet or malnutrition

• Digestive problems that affect vitamin absorption (e.g., celiac disease, Crohn’s disease)

• Certain medications

⚠️ Symptoms

• Tiredness and weakness

• Pale or yellowish skin

• Shortness of breath

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Tingling in hands or feet (common with B12 deficiency)

• Difficulty concentrating

🧪 Diagnosis

Doctors usually confirm vitamin-deficiency anemia with:

• Blood tests (to check vitamin levels, red blood cell count)

• Additional tests to see how well your body absorbs vitamins

💊 Treatments

• Vitamin B12 supplements or injections

• Folic acid (B9) supplements

• A healthy diet rich in vitamins (leafy greens, meat, dairy, eggs, beans, citrus fruits)

• Treating any underlying medical problems that affect absorption

🥗 Prevention

• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and proteins

• For vegans/vegetarians: take B12 supplements or fortified foods

• Regular medical check-ups to detect early signs

• Avoid excessive alcohol, which can affect vitamin absorption