Anemia is a condition in which there arent enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to the bodys organs. Women are more likely to have anemia than men. There are different types of anemia, and each type has different causes. Some of the causes of anemia in women include:
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Iron deficiency anemia: This is the most common type of anemia in women. It occurs when the body doesnt have enough iron to produce hemoglobin, the part of red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Causes of iron deficiency anemia include blood loss, which can be due to heavy menstrual bleeding, slow chronic blood loss within the body, or gastrointestinal bleeding.
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Vitamin deficiency anemia: The body needs folate and vitamin B-12 to make enough healthy red blood cells. A diet that doesnt have enough of these and other key nutrients can result in the body not making enough red blood cells.
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Aplastic anemia: This type of anemia is caused by infections, certain medicines, autoimmune diseases, and being in contact with toxic chemicals.
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Anemias linked to bone marrow disease: Diseases such as leukemia and myelofibrosis can affect how the bone marrow makes blood.
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Hemolytic anemias: This group of anemias is from red blood cells being destroyed faster than bone marrow can replace them.
Some of the risk factors that can increase the risk of anemia in women include a diet that doesnt have enough of certain vitamins and minerals, problems with the small intestine, having heavy periods, and pregnancy. If you suspect you have anemia, its important to talk to your doctor or nurse to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
