New Delhi, March 24: Many women experience weakness, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath during pregnancy. If these symptoms persist, anemia may be the underlying cause. Anemia, characterized by a deficiency of hemoglobin in the body, can pose serious health risks for both mother and child during pregnancy. It not only causes fatigue and weakness in women but can also affect the baby’s growth and weight.
There are several causes of anemia, but during pregnancy, it is primarily due to iron deficiency. The body requires more red blood cells for the development of the body and placenta, leading to increased iron demand. If a woman’s diet lacks sufficient iron or if she already has a deficiency, the likelihood of anemia increases. Additionally, repeated pregnancies, short intervals between pregnancies, and inadequate antenatal care can also contribute to anemia.
Common symptoms of anemia include persistent fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, rapid or irregular heartbeat, pale skin, lips, and nails, cold hands and feet, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. A hemoglobin level below 10.9 grams/dL is considered severe.
To combat anemia during pregnancy, proper nutrition is essential. Include iron-rich foods in the diet such as leafy green vegetables, dry fruits, radish leaves, or drumstick leaves. Guava, dates, amla, and sprouted grains are also beneficial. Foods rich in folic acid, such as wheat, beans, and oranges, should be included in the diet. Incorporating carrots, beets, raw bananas, and fruits like apples, grapes, chikoo, bananas, and pomegranates can also be advantageous. Ayurveda offers effective remedies for anemia, such as Punarnavadi Mandur.
However, if hemoglobin levels drop below 7 grams/dL or do not improve after a month of proper treatment, or if the woman has any bleeding disorders, it is crucial to consult a doctor immediately. Anemia is not just a cause of weakness; it can pose risks for both mother and child.
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PIM/AS
Agency
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
