Private MD News

Anemia testing may reveal source of fatigue

Category: Anemia and RBC disorders

It has been suggested by many studies that America is a sleep-deprived society, or at the very least in a state of near-constant fatigue. However, while many of the people who report that they are constantly tired may be overworked and lacking sleep, there are other factors that can contribute to a state of near-constant lethargy.

Anemia can be a source of consistent fatigue. Caused by a deficiency of iron in the blood, anemia can affect energy and alertness long before it reaches the clinically low levels that indicate serious disease. The recent issue of Oprah magazine lists anemia as one of the most commonly overlooked causes of serious fatigue.

The magazine suggests getting an anemia test to see if it may be a cause should someone feel consistently tired and weak.

The CDC reported last year that anemia in women and children has declined over the last several years, to 6.9 and 3.6 percent respectively, although researchers are unsure what is precipitating the decline.

Anemia can be caused by lack of iron in the diet, injury, inflammation, pregnancy or even as a side effect of some medications.