The main component of red blood cells is hemoglobin, which is iron-rich. It enables the transfer of oxygen from the lungs to different parts of the body. Anemia is a condition in which there is a deficiency of red blood cells, resulting in pallor or weariness. Below, we list a few long-term effects of the condition:

1. Severe fatigue
Anemia causes you to feel tired most of the time and disables you from performing everyday tasks. Constant anemia for a prolonged time may render you unable to complete tasks in both personal and professional lives. Long-term anemia is also linked to depression and incompetence.

2. Increased susceptibility to infections
Oxygen is one of the most essential nutrients for the immune system to function in its optimal state. Anemia also affects the white blood cells and immune system due to the corresponding lack of oxygen supply. Prolonged anemia further compromises the body’s defense system, which leads to a higher chance of susceptibility to infections.

3. Complications during pregnancy
Doctors suggest that pregnant women include folic acid in their diet to avoid folate deficiency anemia. This type of anemia causes complications like premature birth. The baby in the womb may also face developmental and functional issues in the nerves and bones, thus increasing the chances of a low birth weight. Long-term anemia can also trigger postnatal depression in women.

4. Cardiac and lung issues
One of the known symptoms of anemia is arrhythmia, which is the rapid or irregular beating of the heart. Arrhythmia occurs when the heart pumps more blood in order to make up for the lack of oxygen in your blood. Prolonged arrhythmia can cause heart failure or enlargement and even complications in the lungs.

5. Restless legs syndrome (RLS)
Restless legs syndrome is a common condition that affects the nervous system. It causes an overwhelming and compulsive urge to move or shake the legs or feet (and sometimes the calves and thighs too). This condition is commonly linked to iron deficiency anemia.

6. Early death
Aplastic anemia is a rare condition that is marked by an inadequate production of red blood cells. Those who suffer from conditions like aplastic anemia are at a higher risk for early death if the condition is left untreated. Some causes of this condition are exposure to toxic chemicals, viral infections, damaged bone marrow, and even therapies used in cancer treatment.