Anemia is a condition characterized by a reduced number or quantity of red blood cells, which decreases the blood's ability to transport oxygen. Those affected by anemia might experience tiredness, fatigue easily, look pale, suffer from headaches, and have difficulty breathing. Chronic anemia in children can make them more susceptible to infections and learning difficulties. Common causes of anemia include bleeding, excessive breakdown of red blood cells, inadequate production of red blood cells (as seen in certain diseases), and insufficient production of normal hemoglobin, such as in sickle cell anemia and thalassemia. Women are more prone to anemia due to menstrual blood loss, while in children, it frequently results from a lack of iron in their diet. Additionally, anemia can often be attributed to internal bleeding triggered by medications, including widely used drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen.
