Health guide
Always tired? Anaemia, iron, and vitamin B12 explained
Feeling tired all the time is one of the most common reasons people get a blood test, and anaemia, a shortage of healthy red blood cells, is one of the most common causes. It is especially frequent in women with heavy periods and in vegetarians. The right tests find both the anaemia and the reason behind it.
Reviewed by Dr. Vishal Singh, Lab DirectorUpdated
Symptoms of anaemia
- Constant tiredness and weakness
- Breathlessness on mild exertion
- Pale skin, lips, or nail beds
- Dizziness or headaches
- Hair fall and brittle nails
- Poor concentration
Finding the cause, not just the anaemia
A CBC confirms whether you are anaemic and hints at the type. Iron studies check your iron stores (the most common cause), and vitamin B12 checks another frequent culprit, especially in vegetarians. Testing the cause means the treatment actually works.
When to test
Test if tiredness is persistent, if you have heavy periods, follow a vegetarian diet, or have several of the symptoms above. A CBC needs no fasting; iron studies are best done as a morning sample.
This guide is for general information and is not a diagnosis. Always discuss your symptoms and results with a doctor.
Tests that help
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EnergyShield
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Frequently asked questions
Which test detects anaemia?
A Complete Blood Count (CBC) confirms anaemia. Iron studies and vitamin B12 then help find the cause so it can be treated correctly.
Why am I tired even though I eat well?
Common causes include low iron, low vitamin B12, low vitamin D, and thyroid problems. A few simple blood tests usually find the reason.
Not sure where to start?
Message LabONE on WhatsApp. We will help you pick the right test and book home collection in Dehradun — and every package is 25% off when you book online.
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