Serious Signs Anemic Individuals Often Exhibit

Pins And Needles Sensation

Tingling. Photo Credit: AthleticoPhysicalTherapy @Athleticoz

Anemic individuals often present with a symptom best described as pins and needles in their extremities. This sensation is caused by some mechanism causing a blockage in the supply of oxygen to the nerve cells in the affected area. Without sufficient oxygen supply, the nerves lose the ability to send and receive signals from the brain. This loss of ability causes the nerves in the limb or limbs to lose sensation and feel like they have fallen asleep.

Individuals who have anemia have a reduced oxygen concentration in their blood because they do not have a sufficient number of red blood cells to successfully carry oxygen from the lungs and deliver it to the tissues around their bodies. The nerve cells in the patient's extremities are affected by this inadequate oxygen supply, and they will not be able to function the way they would in a healthy individual. This feeling typically comes in waves or short episodes where the limb will lose sensation for a short time. As it regains access to oxygen, the nerves will go through a phase of 'waking up.' This phase is when the pins and needles sensation occurs.

Continue reading to reveal more indications of anemia now.

Headaches

a woman in discomfort holding her forehead. Photo Credit: MichaelCurtisPT @PTz

When the brain receives less iron than it normally requires, the arteries begin to swell leading to an instant, painful headache. An iron-deficient body begins to prioritize getting oxygen to the brain first and foremost and then proceeds to take care of other tissues in the body.

Though the body cares about getting oxygen to the brain before other areas, it is still receiving far less than it should. When this happens, the arteries in the brain can start to swell, which leads to those inconvenient and uncomfortable headaches. Those who have made note of frequent, recurring headaches should make an appointment with a doctor to discuss diagnosis and treatment options.

Learn more about symptoms of anemia now.

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