anemia is the most common blood condition in the u. s. it affects about 3. 5 million americans. for women in their childbearing years anemia is a common cause of fatigue. this is especially true for women who have heavy menstrual cycles fibroid tumors or uterine polyps. anemia can also be the result of hemorrhoids gi problems such as ulcers or cancer. nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (nsaids) such as ibuprofen or aspirin can also lead to gi problems and bleeding. other causes of anemia include a deficiency of iron folic acid or vitamin b12. chronic diseases such as kidney disease can also cause anemia. fatigue occurs when bleeding leads to a deficiency of hemoglobin. that's the iron-rich protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to other parts of your body. when your tissues and organs don't get enough oxygen you feel exhausted unable to get up and be active. to confirm a diagnosis of anemia your doctor will give you a blood test. if iron deficiency is the cause of your fatigue treatment may include iron supplements. iron-rich foods such as spinach broccoli and red meat can also be added to your diet to help relieve symptoms.
what is anemia?