Define Signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia?
Since the level of haemoglobin is reduced in the blood, it causes paleness (pallor) on certain parts of the body. Initially, such paleness can be seen, in conjunctiva and in the roof of the mouth. Since haemoglobin is important for carrying oxygen in the body, anaemic individuals develop breathlessness even on milder exertion. These manifestations exist among adults, especially in pregnant and lactating women. The nails of finger and toes become papery thin and bend upwards to assume shape of spoon. This condition is known as "koilonychia". In severe cases of anaemia particularly among pregnant women, oedema (swelling of feet) is also present. Blood examination for haemoglobin estimation is the best way for the diagnosis of anaemia.