What is Anaemia? Causes, Common Triggers, and How It Affects Your Health

Anaemia is a condition that affects how well your body carries oxygen. It happens when you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells, or when those cells aren’t working as they should. That lack of oxygen affects your energy, concentration, and even your heart. In the UK alone, iron deficiency anaemia is one of the most common nutritional disorders, and it affects people of all ages.

If you live with anaemia, you probably already know how tiring and unpredictable it can be. But what happens in an emergency, or if you're too unwell to explain your condition? That’s where our Anaemia Medical Photo ID Card comes in. It’s a simple way to help make sure that people around you – including healthcare staff – understand what you’re dealing with.

Anaemia is not a single illness. It’s a term that covers a group of conditions with the same result – too few red blood cells or not enough haemoglobin (the part of the red blood cells that carries oxygen). There are many types of anaemia, but the causes fall into three main groups:

• Blood loss – This could be from heavy periods, surgery, or internal bleeding.

• Reduced red blood cell production – Often caused by iron or vitamin deficiencies, or illnesses that affect the bone marrow.

• Increased breakdown of red blood cells – Seen in certain inherited conditions like sickle cell anaemia or thalassaemia.

Iron deficiency is the most common cause, but folate and B12 deficiencies are also common. Anaemia can also be a side effect of long-term conditions like kidney disease, cancer, or autoimmune disorders.

Symptoms of Being Anaemic to Watch For: Tiredness, Breathlessness, and More

Anaemia can develop slowly, which means symptoms might be easy to dismiss at first. But as the condition gets worse, the signs become harder to ignore. These are some of the most common things people notice:

• Tiredness and low energy – Often the first and most persistent symptom.

• Pale skin – This might be especially noticeable in the face, inner eyelids, or nails.

• Breathlessness – Feeling out of breath during everyday tasks or mild exercise.

• Fast or irregular heartbeat – The heart works harder to make up for the reduced oxygen supply.

• Headaches or dizziness – These happen when the brain isn’t getting enough oxygen.

• Cold hands and feet – A sign that your circulation is being affected.

Some people with vitamin B12 deficiency may also experience tingling or numbness, confusion, or balance problems.

Effective Treatments for Anaemia: Iron, Vitamins, and Long-Term Management

The right treatment depends on what’s causing the anaemia. That’s why proper diagnosis is important. Most people will need a blood test to find out their haemoglobin level and look at their iron, B12, and folate levels.

• Iron-deficiency anaemia – Often treated with iron tablets, sometimes with dietary advice to increase iron-rich foods like red meat, leafy greens, or fortified cereals.

• Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency – May need supplements or injections, and sometimes changes to your diet.

• Anaemia caused by chronic disease – Might be managed by treating the underlying condition. In some cases, people need regular blood transfusions or medications that boost red blood cell production.

• Genetic forms of anaemia – Like sickle cell or thalassaemia, usually need specialist care.

Even after starting treatment, it can take several weeks to feel better. That’s why managing your symptoms and looking after your health day-to-day remains important.

Benefits of Carrying an Anaemia Medical Photo ID Card from The Card Project UK

Living with anaemia means you might feel unwell at times or find it difficult to explain your condition, especially if you’re tired, dizzy, or in a stressful situation. That’s when a medical ID card can help. Here’s what our card offers:

• Immediate identification – Your card shows a photo and your name, so there’s no confusion about who it belongs to.

• Medical explanation – It includes a short, clear statement that explains you have anaemia, which helps healthcare staff make quicker and safer decisions.

• Emergency contacts – The back of the card lists two people who can be called straight away if something happens. That’s useful in situations where you can’t communicate well yourself.

• Everyday reassurance – Whether you’re out alone, travelling, or at work, knowing that key information is on you can help reduce stress.

You don’t need to be in a serious medical emergency to benefit from this card. Even something like fainting in a public place or being seen by a first aider at work can become easier to manage if you have it on hand.

We design our cards with real-life use in mind. Each card is:

• Credit card sized – Fits neatly in a wallet, purse, or phone case.

• Made from biodegradable plastic – Strong enough for daily use but better for the environment than traditional plastic cards.

• Clear and easy to read – The design keeps things simple, without clutter or unnecessary information.

• Customisable – You can add your photo, name, and contact details during the order process.

It’s a useful tool to carry with you if you live with anaemia, whether your symptoms are mild or more severe. It also helps other people understand that your condition might not be visible, but it still affects how you feel.

Order Your Anaemia Medical Photo ID Card from The Card Project UK for Clear Support When It Counts

Being prepared isn’t about expecting the worst – it’s about making sure that if something does go wrong, you’ve done what you can to make things easier. Our Anaemia Medical Photo ID Card is a simple way to help protect yourself, get faster care, and give your family peace of mind.

It only takes a few minutes to order, and once you’ve got it, you’ll know that vital information is always close by.

Ready to get started? Order your Anaemia Medical Photo ID Card from us here at The Card Project UK and carry peace of mind with you wherever you go.