Anemias - Symptoms

Some common symptoms of mild anemia include weakness, fatigue, and a "run-down" feeling. Other signs include pale skin and a lack of color in the creases of the palm, gums, nail beds or lining of the eyelids. Someone who is weak, tires easily, is often out of breath, and feels faint or dizzy may have severe anemia. Other symptoms of anemia include:

• Chest pain, often accompanied by a choking sensation
• A strong desire to eat ice, paint, or dirt
• Headache
• Loss of memory or the ability to concentrate
• Inflammation of the tongue or mouth
• Insomnia (inability to sleep)
• Irregular heartbeat
• Loss of appetite
• Nails that are dry, brittle, or ridged
• Rapid breathing
• Sores in the mouth, throat, or rectum
• Sweating
• Swelling of the hands and feet
• Excessive thirst
• Ringing in the ears
• Unexplained bleeding or bruising

Additional symptoms related to pernicious anemia include:

• Problems with movement or balance
• Tingling in the hands and feet
• Confusion, depression, and memory loss