Take anemia seriously, pregnant women warned

KABUL (Pajhwok): Health experts warn anemia can have serious consequences for the health of pregnant women and young girls.

If symptoms of this condition, such as dizziness, pallor, insomnia and rapid heartbeat, are noticed, individuals are advised to consult a doctor promptly.

Dr Khadija Misbah, an obstetrics and gynecology specialist in Kabul, told Pajhwok Afghan News while anemia could affect anyone, adolescent girls, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers were particularly vulnerable.

She pointed out girls were more likely to develop anemia due to menstruation, while women faced a higher risk because of multiple pregnancies. Poor diet and certain medical conditions also contribute to anemia.

“In our country, widespread food insecurity and poor nutrition are major factors,” Dr Misbah noted. “Mothers often lack sufficient food and fail to consume healthy, nutritious meals on time, which contributes to anemia.”

Dr. Misbah listed common anemia symptoms, including irritability, loss of appetite, pale skin, yellowish complexion, hair loss, brittle nails, lack of energy, fatigue, insomnia and an increased heart rate.

She also highlighted the risks posed to breastfeeding mothers, explaining it could lead to anemia or malnutrition in their babies.

For young girls, anemia can cause joint pains, fatigue, hair loss, lack of interest in activities, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, headaches and dizziness. “Initially, the symptoms of iron deficiency might be mild, but if not addressed, they could worsen over time,” she said.

Dr. Misbah recommended maintaining a balanced diet, especially food rich in iron, regular exercise and spacing pregnancies as effective preventive measures against anemia.

She stressed the importance of seeking medical advice if any symptoms were observed.

Dr. Sonita Bahram, another Kabul-based obstetrics and gynecology specialist, agreed:  “Anemia is common among girls and women, often due to improper nutrition and irregular menses.”

She said after a thorough examination, doctors could assess the severity of anemia and prescribe iron supplements in mild cases. Severe anemia may require blood transfusions.

She added dark circles under the eyes, brown spots on the face, vision disturbances, dizziness, headaches, insomnia, irritability, increased heart rate, and low blood pressure could all be signs of anemia.

The doctor cautioned anemia could be life-threatening and advised girls and women showing symptoms to consult physicians immediately.

She asked young girls to eat a balanced diet with vitamin C-rich foods, leafy vegetables and calcium-rich items like milk and eggs. Pregnant women should receive regular medical care and take iron supplements, especially during the first three months of pregnancy.

Dr Zarghona Mehdi, another obstetrician and gynecologist, said malaria, jaundice, liver diseases, and gastrointestinal issues could also cause anemia in young girls and pregnant women.

sa/mud