Anaemia

Anaemia means the blood has insufficient haemoglobin or healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen effectively. It can cause tiredness, breathlessness, dizziness or a racing heartbeat. Iron deficiency is one possible cause, but anaemia has several causes and should be investigated rather than assumed from symptoms.

Does tiredness mean I have anaemia?

Not necessarily. Poor sleep, infection, thyroid problems and many other issues can also cause fatigue. A blood test is needed to establish whether haemoglobin is low. A person can have low iron stores before anaemia develops, so an iron result and a haemoglobin result answer different questions.

Tell your doctor about heavy periods, pregnancy, changes in diet, bowel symptoms, bleeding, recent illness and previous blood results. Mention breathlessness during ordinary activities or reduced exercise tolerance. These details help decide which tests are useful and whether assessment should happen urgently.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Anaemia - symptoms, causes and treatment - Healthdirect Australia.

What happens after a blood test?

A full blood count gives information about haemoglobin and blood cells. Further testing depends on the pattern and your history. The aim is to identify why the result is abnormal, not simply correct a number. Ask whether blood loss, poor absorption or another condition needs investigation.

Do not self-treat indefinitely using someone else's plan. Different causes need different care, and a follow-up test may be needed to check progress. Keep a copy of your results and ask when the doctor wants to review them. Feeling better does not always mean the underlying cause has been addressed.

When should I seek urgent care?

Chest pain, collapse, severe breathlessness or major bleeding requires emergency help. Call 000 if symptoms are severe or life-threatening. Black stools, ongoing bleeding or rapidly worsening weakness need prompt medical assessment. Telehealth can help review symptoms and existing results, but testing and an examination may be necessary.

Where to go next

Read online doctor consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.