How is anaemia treated?

Anaemia means the blood is carrying less oxygen than the body needs. Iron deficiency may be treated with iron tablets or another prescribed form of iron, while vitamin B12 deficiency may need tablets or injections. Anaemia related to long-term inflammation, kidney problems, inherited blood conditions, or ongoing bleeding needs a plan for that condition. Blood tests help identify the pattern and check whether treatment is working. Do not start high-dose supplements without assessment, because the wrong supplement can delay the right diagnosis.

Take prescribed treatment as directed and tell the clinician about stomach symptoms, constipation, medicines, pregnancy, heavy periods, dietary restrictions, or any bleeding. Iron-rich foods can support a treatment plan, but food alone may not correct established deficiency. Keep follow-up appointments so haemoglobin and nutrient levels can be reviewed. Symptoms such as tiredness, dizziness, cold hands and feet, or shortness of breath may improve gradually rather than immediately.

Arrange medical assessment for persistent tiredness, breathlessness, dizziness, unusual bruising, or suspected bleeding. Seek urgent help for severe shortness of breath, fainting, chest discomfort, confusion, vomiting blood, or black or bloody stools. These symptoms need prompt assessment rather than self-treatment.

Ask which type of anaemia you have, what caused it, how long treatment may take, which follow-up tests are needed, and what side effects should be reported. Ask whether menstrual, stomach, dietary, medication-related, or other blood loss needs investigation.