* Hemoglobin – blood element whose function is to distribute oxygen from the lungs to body tissues.

* Hematocrit – the measurement of the percentage of red blood cells are in a specific volume of blood.

Often, anemia is a symptom of a disease rather than a disease itself, and usually develops due to the presence of one of these factors:

* Excessive blood loss or hemorrhage
* Insufficient production of red blood cells
* Excessive red blood cell destruction
* Decreased production and excessive destruction of red blood cells

What are the symptoms of anemia?

Most symptoms of anemia occur as a consequence of reduced oxygen in the cells or “hypoxia.” Since red blood cells by hemoglobin, carry oxygen, decreased production or number of these cells result in “hypoxia.” Many of the symptoms do not occur if anemia is mild, because the body can usually compensate for gradual changes in hemoglobin.

Below are the most common symptoms of anemia. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include, inter alia, the following:

* Abnormal paleness or lack of color of skin
* Acceleration of heart rate (tachycardia)
* Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
* Lack of energy or tiring easily (fatigue)
* Dizziness or vertigo especially when standing
* Headaches
* Irritability
* Irregular menstrual cycles
* Absent or delayed menstruation (amenorrhea)
* Sores or swollen tongue (glossitis)
* Jaundice or yellowing of the skin, eyes and mouth
* Increased size of the spleen or liver (splenomegaly, hepatomegaly)
* Delay or delayed growth and development
* Slow healing of wounds and tissue

The symptoms of anemia may resemble other blood disorders or medical problems. Because anemia is often a symptom associated with another disease, it is important that your child’s doctor is informed of the symptoms seen in children. Always consult your child’s physician for a diagnosis.