Anemia is when the blood contains fewer hemoglobin and red blood cells than needed, and the body transports oxygen less well. It is common in children, and is often found incidentally on a blood test when there are almost no complaints. Let us calmly look at where it comes from at different ages and what parents should watch for.
What anemia in children is
The word "anemia" by itself does not name a disease: it is a syndrome, a symptom of various conditions. Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein that carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues, so anemia leads to oxygen deprivation. Doctors distinguish anemias by cause: due to blood loss, due to impaired red blood cell formation (for example, iron deficiency), and due to accelerated destruction of red blood cells. Iron deficiency is the most common type, but a blood test also checks for others, such as vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.
Causes of anemia in children
Factors contributing to the development of anemia include one-sided nutrition with a predominance of dairy products, lack of vitamins, and irregular meals. Past acute respiratory illnesses, childhood infections, and helminth infestations can also play a role.
Iron deficiency anemia in children
Iron is needed for hemoglobin, and its deficiency is usually associated with blood loss or with insufficient iron in the diet. If the cause is dietary, the doctor assesses the diet.
Why anemia occurs
Among the causes of anemia, sources cite heavy menstruation. Also important are diets lacking iron, folate, or vitamin B12, and bleeding in the stomach and intestines, including with the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. If the cause is unclear, the doctor may order additional tests.
Symptoms and signs of anemia in a child
Anemia may occur without pronounced manifestations. When symptoms are present, they are usually weakness, rapid fatigue, reduced concentration, shortness of breath on exertion, palpitations, headache, and ringing in the ears. Pallor of the skin, mucous membranes, and nail beds is often noticed. There can also be less typical signs: strange taste in food, itching, sore tongue, hair loss, a desire to eat non-food items (paper, ice), difficulty swallowing, cracks in the corners of the mouth, nail changes, and restless legs.
- Pallor of the skin and mucous membranes
- Fatigue and weakness, reduced attention
- Shortness of breath and palpitations on exertion
- Headache, ringing in the ears
- Perversion of appetite, cracks in the corners of the mouth, nail changes
How anemia is detected and when a doctor is needed
Usually the doctor asks about lifestyle and health history and orders a complete blood count, which shows the number of red blood cells and other cells. No preparation is needed for it. Additionally, ferritin, iron, and vitamins may be checked, and if the cause is unclear, tests may be done to look for hidden blood and the patient may be referred to a specialist. If anemia is not treated, it increases the risk of infections and complications from the heart and lungs.
Anemia by itself is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103 or 112 — if the child has a life-threatening emergency.
This is reference material, not a substitute for a doctor's consultation: if anemia is suspected, discuss tests and further steps with a pediatrician.
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This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer