When our bloodstream has lower than necessary red blood cells circulating, it causes a condition known as anemia. Since red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to other organs, your brain might receive less than necessary oxygen — which could result in a headache. So, can anemia cause headaches?
Relationship Between Anemia and Headaches
Yes, anemia and headaches do have a relationship. In fact, headaches might be a symptom of anemia. It is possible that low serotonin levels due to low iron may make the affected individual vulnerable to headaches. Moreover, red blood cells also transport oxygen throughout the body, so when the red blood cell count is low, the rest of the body may not receive sufficient oxygen. As a result, it affects the brain function, leading to a headache or migraine episodes.
Keep in mind that anemia is not the only factor responsible for a headache, so when you have a headache or a migraine, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnoses as well as treatment.
What Kind of Headache Does Anemia Cause
Amenia can cause various types of headaches, depending on the individual and their condition. While some experience a dull and mild ache, others may have severe pain along with other symptoms.
Below, you will find a list of headaches amenia can cause:
- Basic Headaches: Many people experience an aching sensation in their head or a basic headache, which could result from low levels of oxygen in the brain due to anemia.
- Migraine Attacks: Every person’s experience with migraine is different, but usually, it is described as a throbbing sensation on one side of the head. Moreover, migraine attacks may make an appearance regularly, with associated symptoms such as vision changes, light sensitivity, sound sensitivity, and more. Headache due to anemia could turn into a migraine episode.
- CVT Headaches: CVT refers to the blood clot that forms in the vein responsible for draining blood from your brain. Consequently, the blood backs up, which might result in a headache due to distension of the vein walls, leakage of blood into your brain, inflammation, and more.
How To Treat Anemia Headaches
So, how do you get rid of anemia headaches? Treating headaches due to anemia will be similar to treating pain in the head or migraine due to any other reason. You can opt for medication, hot or cold compresses, resting in a dark or quiet room, and a head massage. The only way to know a person is anemic is with the help of a blood test.
Treating anemia depends on the cause; you can have iron deficiency due to low iron intake, loss of iron due to bleeding, pregnancy, gastrointestinal issues, kidney disease, and more. Depending on the cause, the treatment for anemia might include the following:
- Dietary changes
- Iron supplements
- Blood transfusion
You should talk to healthcare professionals for effective treatment, taking your overall health and condition into consideration. Furthermore, you can talk to them regarding the headache due to anemia and possible treatments.
Closing Word
You can have a headache as a symptom if you suffer from anemia. However, talk to a professional to get rid of the headache and treat anemia in a suitable manner. Gastroenterology offers promising treatments and procedures for your health issues. Dial (281) 357 1977 to get in touch with us or give us a visit at 421 School St., Suite 110, Tomball, TX 77375.