Can Anemia Cause Headaches?
Anemia is a disease where your red blood cell count is lower than normal or it does not have enough haemoglobin (a protein that carries oxygen). It has many causes, but the bottom line is that the cells in all parts of the body are delivered with a small amount of oxygen and nutrients.
Symptoms of Anemia
This disease presents many symptoms as the blood is the primary involved organ. Any tissue or organ system deprived of oxygen will not be functioning properly. Does anemia cause headaches? Yes. Here are other manifestations:
- Dizziness
- Pale skin
- Chest pain
- Irritability
- Shortness of breath
- Decreased body temperature
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Rapid or irregular pulse or heartbeat
- Tingling sensation, numbness, or coldness on extremities
- Inability to think clearly.
Treatment for Headaches in Anemia
Treatment for headaches in anemia usually has to start on the identification on what type of anemia you have. You can try these steps:
- Consult your doctor. This is to ensure that the proper treatment be employed by identifying the cause.
- Eat iron-rich foods such as animal liver, green leafy vegetables, and iron supplements. Be sure to take iron pills with orange juice or any acidic beverages and eat foods rich in fiber to avoid constipation. This is for iron-deficiency anemia.
- Eat vitamin B complex-rich foods and supplements especially B9 and B12.
- Adequate rest and sleep.
- Massage is a good treatment for headaches in anemia. It improves blood flow to the brain.
- Avoid drinking too much alcohol and smoking.
- You can take a warm bath or a warm compress to improve blood flow.
- Your doctor might order medications or some special procedures such as blood transfusion to treat headaches and anemia. Surgery may be ordered for more life-threatening situations like internal bleeding.
- Related Topics
- Chronic Anemia: Iron Deficiency Anemia Complications And Treatment
- How To Prevent Anemia With Iron Rich Diet: Symptoms Of Anemia
- Microcytic Anemia: Symptoms And Treatment For Anemia Microcytic
- Symptoms Of Anemia In Men: Causes And Treatment For Anemia
- Anemia In Pregnancy Symptoms: Treatment For Iron Deficiency Anemia
