The red blood cells present in the body are responsible for carrying oxygen to the different parts of the body. When there are insufficient red blood cells in the body, the condition indicates anemia. The problem may arise due to several underlying health conditions, including intestinal disorders, chronic diseases, and poor diet; furthermore, it can result in fatigue, shortness of breath, headache, pale skin, dizziness, and more. Let’s take a closer look at the different types and causes of anemia.

1. Iron deficiency anemia
The most common form of anemia is iron-deficiency anemia resulting from a deficiency of iron in the body resulting in poor hemoglobin levels in the blood. This form of anemia could result from a diet lacking in iron, certain foods and drugs, endurance training, pregnancy, menstrual periods, and certain digestive problems. Among the different types and causes of anemia, this one mostly affects women and children.

2. Aplastic anemia
This form of the condition occurs when the body ceases to create new blood cells due to radiation or chemotherapy treatments, autoimmune disorders, exposure to certain harmful chemicals, or a viral infection. People suffering from aplastic anemia experience excessive fatigue and are prone to infections. They could also have uncontrolled bleeding. Furthermore, among the different types and causes of anemia, this form occurs rarely but can be severe.

3. Sickle cell anemia
This condition occurs as a result of certain genes that are passed down in a family. In this type of anemia, the red blood cells, which usually tend to be round, take the shape of a crescent. This causes restricted movement of the red blood cells through the blood vessels, which, in turn, affects the transfer of oxygen in the body. The disease can also cause frequent infections, vision problems, delayed growth, and more.

4. Vitamin deficiency anemia
This type of anemia occurs when the body becomes deficient in certain essential vitamins required for its normal functioning. The vitamins that lead to this type of anemia primarily include Vitamin B-12, folate, and Vitamin C. Furthermore, the problem can also arise when the body is unable to properly absorb these vitamins from the food being consumed. This condition elevates the risk of other health problems, including nervous system disorders, premature birth during pregnancy, and scurvy.

5. Thalassemia
This form of anemia is heredity and causes a low level of hemoglobin in the body. The condition can be mild or severe and shows symptoms such as slow growth, fatigue, abdominal swelling, dark urine, and pale skin.

Among the many different types and causes of anemia mentioned above, some rare forms of the disease, such as Fanconi anemia, Diamond-Black fan anemia, and Mediterranean anemia, occur as a result of a problem in the genes. But all forms of the disease can be well-managed through proper medication and a nutritious diet.