Why do people suffering from anaemia get tired easily?
Anaemia refers to the condition in which the blood has a reduced number of red blood cells or haemoglobin. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body, so a decrease in their number or quantity of haemoglobin can lead to reduced oxygen delivery to the tissues.
One of the primary consequences of anaemia is fatigue and tiredness. This occurs due to several reasons:
Reduced Oxygen Delivery: The main function of red blood cells is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the various tissues and organs in the body. A deficiency in red blood cells or haemoglobin means less oxygen is carried in the bloodstream. This can compromise the body's ability to meet its metabolic oxygen demands, resulting in fatigue.
Altered Energy Production: Oxygen plays a vital role in energy production at the cellular level through a process called oxidative phosphorylation. When the oxygen supply is limited due to anaemia, cells cannot efficiently generate the energy they need to perform their functions. This can lead to fatigue, weakness, and decreased exercise tolerance.
Cardiac Effects: Anaemia can strain the heart as it tries to compensate for the reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. This can result in increased heart rate, palpitations, and even an enlarged heart (cardiomegaly) in some cases. These cardiac changes can contribute to feelings of tiredness and reduced stamina.
Changes in Blood Flow: Anaemia can affect the regulation of blood flow, leading to inadequate circulation to certain tissues and organs. This can further compromise oxygen delivery and exacerbate fatigue.
Vasodilation: In some cases, anaemia can cause the blood vessels to dilate in an attempt to improve oxygen delivery to the tissues. This vasodilation can result in a drop in blood pressure (hypotension), which can further worsen feelings of tiredness.
Iron Deficiency Anaemia: Iron deficiency is a common cause of anaemia, particularly in menstruating women and individuals with poor iron intake. Iron plays a crucial role in the production of haemoglobin, so a lack of iron can impair red blood cell production, contributing to fatigue.
It's important for individuals experiencing persistent tiredness or fatigue to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate medical care. If anaemia is identified, the underlying cause should be addressed to alleviate symptoms, improve oxygen delivery, and restore energy levels.