When should you see a doctor for anemia?

You should see a doctor for Anemia when you or a loved one are experiencing the following symptoms

• Fatigue or weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Pale skin
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Headaches or dizziness
• Cold hands and feet
• Irritability or difficulty concentrating
• Chest pain or angina
• Sore or swollen tongue
• Brittle nails
• Unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances, such as ice, dirt, or starch (pica)
• Unusual symptoms such as a red or sore tongue, or a smooth, inflamed, or cracked tongue

Your doctor will do a physical examination, take your medical history, and may order some lab tests to evaluate your red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and iron levels in your blood. Your doctor may also order additional tests to determine the underlying cause of the anemia and to help create an appropriate treatment plan.