People with anaemia don't have enough red blood cells in the blood to carry oxygen throughout the body. This can cause serious problems, if left untreated. There are several types of anaemia, each characterised by what causes it. To help prevent the most common type of anaemia - dietary anaemia - make sure that your child eats a diet rich in iron, vitamin B-12, and folic acid.
What causes anaemia?
There are different types of anaemia, each characterised by what causes it. Some types of anaemia are caused by a lack of proper nutrition (iron deficiency anaemia and vitamin deficiency anaemia), some types are caused by disease (aplastic anaemia and hemolytic anaemias), and others are genetic (sickle cell anaemia).
Is anaemia serious?
Anaemia can be very serious, even life-threatening. Anaemia can cause fatigue, heart problems, nerve damage, impaired mental function, and sometimes even death.
Can I prevent anaemia?
Dietary forms of anaemia can be prevented. Make sure that your child gets enough iron in her diet. Because menstruation, digestive disorders, and pregnancy can result in anaemia, it's important to eat foods rich in iron. Kids with diabetes may also be at greater risk for anaemia, so their iron and B-12 intake should be monitored.
How do I know if my child has anaemia?
Mild anaemia or anaemia that has yet to progress, may go undetected because initial symptoms may not be noticeable. However, as the disease progresses, your child may have one or all of the following symptoms:
- Pale skin
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Cognitive problems
- Cold hands and feet
How do I treat anaemia?
Make sure that your child eats foods rich in iron, vitamin B-12 and folic acid. Kids with anaemia caused by disease or genetics may need to take iron supplements. People with severe cases of anaemia may need a blood transfusion or chemotherapy.
Should I call the doctor?
Always call the doctor if your child appears to be showing signs of anaemia. He can perform tests to determine what type of anaemia your child has and what is the best course of treatment.
What you need to know about anaemia
- Anaemia is the result of too few red bloo cells.
- Anaemia can be caused by poor diet, disease or genetics.
- There are several types of anaemia, each characterised by what causes it.
- To prevent dietary anaemia, make sure that your child eats a diet rich in iron, vitamin B-12 and folic acid.
Find information on other conditions:
- Read more about haemophilia
- Learn about sickle cell anaemia
- More on stomach and intestinal disorders
Written by Rebecca Stigall for Kidspot, Australia's parenting resource for family health. Sources include Better Health Channel, NSW Health and Health Insite.
Last revised: Wednesday, 20 January 2010
This article contains general information only and is not intended to replace advice from a qualified health professional.
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