Anemia

Anemia is a condition characterized by an insufficient number of healthy red blood cells. Low levels of hemoglobin (the iron-rich protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body) in the blood are an indicator of anemia. When the body doesn't receive enough oxygen-rich blood, symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath may result. Depending on the severity of anemia, the anemic may have a hard time carrying out daily activities. Anemia may be temporary, result from other health conditions, or chronic. Mild anemia may be treated easily, whereas severe cases can be persistent and life threatening if not detected and treated.