Anemia Causes

• Many medical conditions cause anemia. Common causes of anemia include the following:
  
  
  • External bleeding: Loss of blood through heavy menstrual bleeding, wounds, as well as stomach ulcers can cause anemia.
    
    
  • Iron deficiency: The bone marrow needs iron to make red blood cells.
    
    
  • Anemia of chronic disease: Any long-term medical condition can lead to anemia.
    
    
  • Kidney disease: The kidneys help the bone marrow to make red blood cells.
    
    
  • Pregnancy: Water weight gain during pregnancy dilutes the red blood cells.
    
    
  • Poor nutrition: Vitamins and minerals are required to make red blood cells.
    
    
  • Alcoholism: Poor nutrition and lack of vitamins and minerals are associated with alcoholism.
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• Uncommon causes of anemia include bleeding disorders, liver disease, thalassemia, infection, cancer, arthritis, enzyme deficiency, sickle cell disease, hypothyroidism, toxins, or hereditary conditions.