Ever found yourself out of breath after doing something as simple as climbing a flight of stairs or taking a short walk?
Sure, we all get winded sometimes. But if it happens more often even during everyday activities, it might not be because you're out of shape—it could be a sign of Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA).
Discover how Iron Deficiency Anemia can leave you struggling to catch your breath.
HOW DOES IDA AFFECT YOUR BREATHING?
Iron Deficiency Anemia occurs when your body lacks enough iron to produce hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to your organs. It is one of the most common types of anemia worldwide and can manifest in various ways.
One of the most often overlooked symptoms of IDA is shortness of breath (or dyspnea). Your body relies on red blood cells to efficiently exchange carbon dioxide for oxygen. When iron levels drop, red blood cell production decreases, making it harder for your body to receive the oxygen it needs. Hence, that breathless feeling.
WHO’S MOST AT RISK?
Iron Deficiency Anemia hits hardest among women, particularly pregnant (24.6%), elderly (19.1%), and breastfeeding (16.7%) females. Other at-risk groups include:
- Individuals recovering from major surgery or physical trauma
- Persons with gastrointestinal diseases like celiac disease and inflammatory bowel diseases
- People with peptic ulcers
- Those who have undergone bariatric procedures
- Vegetarians, vegans, or those with diets low in iron
- Children who consume large amounts of cow’s milk, which can interfere with iron absorption
If you identify with any of these groups, consider this your sign to pay attention to your iron intake.
IRON UP YOUR GAME!
It’s not yet too late. Take control of Iron Deficiency Anemia.
Help keep your blood healthy with a proper, iron-rich diet, regular exercise, and the right blood vitamin—Iron + Pyridoxine (Vit B6) + Cyanocobalamin (Vit B12) + Folic Acid (HEMARATE FA)! It contains 60 mg of iron, as recommended for Filipinos per DOH AO#2010-0010.
Buy now from leading drugstores nationwide.
IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR.
ASC Ref. Code U0242P102124H
REFERENCES:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22824-iron-deficiency-anemia
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/16942-dyspnea
https://www.healthline.com/health/anemia/anemia-and-shortness-of-breath
https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/anemia/iron-deficiency
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6568233/