What are the symptoms of severe anemia?

Patients with severe anemia will experience a series of symptoms in the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems, nervous systems, digestive systems, reproductive systems, and urinary systems, so everyone must pay attention and seek timely treatment once anemia occurs.

(1) Cardiovascular system manifestations

Palpitations and shortness of breath after physical activity are the most common symptoms. When anemia is severe or there is heart failure, palpitations and shortness of breath may occur even when resting.

(2) Neurological manifestations

When anemia is severe, neurological symptoms are also common, especially in elderly patients. Common symptoms include dizziness, headache, tinnitus, blurred vision, black spots or stars in front of the eyes, lack of energy, fatigue and drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, slow reaction, numbness, chills or tingling in the hands and feet, etc. Severe anemia may cause fainting. If anemia occurs suddenly, the patient often becomes irritable and restless.

(3) Digestive system manifestations

Loss of appetite is one of the most common symptoms. Abdominal distension, discomfort in the epigastric area, nausea, and constipation may also occur. Sometimes there may be tongue pain and a smooth tongue coating. In severe anemia, the liver may be slightly enlarged, which is particularly obvious when heart failure occurs, and is often tender.

(4) Reproductive system manifestations

If a woman has severe anemia, she may experience irregular menstruation and amenorrhea. And most of the anemia in women is caused by menstruation.

(5) Urinary system manifestations

Severe anemia may be accompanied by mild proteinuria and increased nocturia.