Anaemia
Anaemia is a condition where low levels of haemoglobin or red blood cells result in insufficient oxygen being carried to the organs and tissues. There are many causes of anaemia but the most common cause is iron deficiency. A lack of iron in the body can be due to poor diet (inadequate levels of iron, folic acid or vitamin B12[1]), heavy periods, pregnancy, peptic ulcers or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
The symptoms of anaemia usually involve lethargy, shortness of breath, pale complexion and brittle nails. However in severe cases of anaemia patients can display symptoms including tachycardia (abnormally fast heartbeat) and heart failure[2]. There are several different types of anaemia such as sickle cell anaemia which is due to a genetic mutation involving glutamate and valine.