Anemia occurs when your body lacks enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen efficiently. This article explains the most common symptoms, underlying causes, and major types of anemia, including iron and vitamin B12 deficiency. You’ll also learn why proper diagnosis matters and how a holistic approach can support overall wellbeing.

In This Article

• What Is Anemia?
• Common Symptoms of Anemia
• Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia
• Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia
• What Causes Anemia?
• Classification of Anemia
• Why Proper Diagnosis Matters
• A Holistic Perspective on Anemia

What Is Anemia?

Anemia is a condition where the blood cannot carry enough oxygen to the body’s tissues due to low hemoglobin levels, low red blood cell count, or both.

Hemoglobin is the red pigment in blood responsible for oxygen transport. Importantly, the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin levels do not always decrease together. In some cases, red blood cell numbers may appear normal or even elevated, while hemoglobin remains low. This results in reduced oxygen delivery and the characteristic symptoms of anemia.

At Vitalis Health, we often explain anemia as a functional oxygen deficiency rather than just a blood count issue.

Common Symptoms of Anemia

Anemia rarely presents with just one symptom. Diagnosis usually requires a pattern of symptoms combined with blood testing.

Common signs include:

• Persistent fatigue and low energy
• Poor concentration and brain fog
• Headaches and dizziness
• Shortness of breath, especially during exertion
• Heart palpitations during activity
• Pale or sallow skin tone

Pale skin is often mentioned but is not a reliable indicator on its own. It typically occurs because blood vessels constrict in response to reduced oxygen delivery.

As anemia becomes more severe, symptoms may intensify and include:

• Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
• Weak pulse and excessive sweating
• Shortness of breath at rest
• Fainting spells

In people with pre-existing heart conditions, prolonged oxygen deficiency can place significant strain on the heart.

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia worldwide.

In addition to general anemia symptoms, iron deficiency may cause:

• Cracks at the corners of the mouth (perlèche)
• Brittle or ridged fingernails
• Hair thinning or hair loss
• Painful mouth ulcers (aphthae)
• Burning tongue or pain when swallowing
• Chronic itching

These signs reflect iron’s essential role in oxygen transport, tissue repair, and immune health.

Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia

Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia often presents with neurological symptoms, making it especially important to identify early.

Common signs include:

• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
• Unsteady gait or balance issues
• Muscle weakness or paralysis in advanced cases

One specific type is pernicious anemia, an autoimmune condition that prevents vitamin B12 absorption due to the loss of intrinsic factor in the stomach. Typical features include:

• Smooth, red, burning tongue (Hunter glossitis)
• Digestive discomfort
• Possible association with autoimmune thyroid conditions

Although rare, this form of anemia requires medical diagnosis and targeted treatment.

What Causes Anemia?

Anemia develops when the balance between blood production, blood breakdown, and blood loss is disrupted.

The most common causes include:

• Nutrient deficiencies (iron, vitamin B12, folate)
• Chronic blood loss (often slow and unnoticed)
• Increased destruction of red blood cells
• Impaired red blood cell production

Chronic diseases can also cause anemia. This is sometimes referred to as anemia of chronic disease, seen in long-term inflammation, infections, autoimmune conditions, diabetes, and some cancers.

Classification of Anemia

Clinically, anemia is grouped into two main categories:

1. Disturbed Blood Formation

This may occur due to:

• Bone marrow disorders
• Iron, vitamin B12, or folate deficiency
• Chronic kidney disease

The kidneys produce around 90% of erythropoietin, a hormone that signals the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. Reduced erythropoietin leads directly to anemia.

2. Increased Breakdown or Loss of Red Blood Cells

Possible causes include:

• Acute or chronic bleeding
• Enlarged spleen
• Increased red blood cell destruction (hemolysis)
• Infections, metabolic disorders, or certain medications

Why Proper Diagnosis Matters

Anemia is not a condition to self-treat. While iron supplementation can be helpful in iron deficiency anemia, it may be ineffective or even harmful in other forms.

A qualified practitioner or naturopath can:

• Order appropriate blood tests
• Identify the type and severity of anemia
• Recommend safe, targeted treatment

In severe cases, medical intervention such as blood transfusion or treatment of internal bleeding may be necessary.

A Holistic Perspective on Anemia

At Vitalis Health, we view anemia through a whole-body lens. Digestive health, nutrient absorption, inflammation, and gut balance all play important roles in blood health.

For some individuals, supporting digestive function — including colon wellbeing — may help improve nutrient absorption and overall vitality. Colon hydrotherapy can be a supportive therapy when used appropriately and as part of a broader, practitioner-guided health plan.

If you experience ongoing fatigue, weakness, or unexplained symptoms, consult your naturopath or healthcare provider for proper testing and personalized care.