Always Tired? Understanding Anemia Among Young Women

You still struggle to stay alert during your morning lecture, even after getting eight hours of sleep. Climbing the stairs left you breathless, and even a short walk across campus felt exhausting. You blamed it on exams, a busy routine, or not eating properly. For many young girls, these symptoms become so familiar that they seem like a normal part of student life. However, persistent tiredness, weakness, and breathlessness can sometimes be signs of anemia, a condition that deserves more attention among young women.

When Fatigue Is More Than Just Tiredness?

Anaemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin to carry oxygen effectively to its tissues. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), iron deficiency is the most common nutritional cause, although deficiencies in folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin A can also contribute.

The WHO lists tiredness, weakness, dizziness, drowsiness, and breathlessness during physical activity among the possible symptoms of anaemia. However, these symptoms are not specific to the condition. Poor sleep, anxiety, and long study hours can cause similar feelings, making it easy to dismiss persistent fatigue as part of a demanding routine.

What Pakistan’s Numbers Reveal About Young Girls?

Pakistan’s National Nutrition Survey 2018 measured haemoglobin levels in 14,418 adolescent girls aged 10–19 and found that 54.7% were anaemic. The reported prevalence was slightly higher among rural girls (56.0%) than urban girls (52.5%). Among non-pregnant women of reproductive age, the survey recorded a prevalence of 43.0%.

For girls balancing classes, homework, exams, household responsibilities, or extracurricular activities, feeling tired can seem like an ordinary part of a busy day. But persistent fatigue, weakness, or dizziness may be signs of an underlying health problem, including anaemia. These symptoms can affect concentration, make daily tasks feel more demanding, and leave students struggling to keep up with their usual routines. Rather than assuming they are simply overworked, young girls should seek medical advice if these symptoms persist.

Why Girls May Be More Vulnerable to Anaemia?

The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies menstruating adolescent girls and women among the groups particularly affected by anaemia. Several factors can contribute, including insufficient iron in the diet, blood loss during menstruation, poor iron absorption, and parasitic infections, according to the WHO’s guidance on anaemia.

Heavy periods deserve particular attention. UK health guidance identifies them as a common cause of iron deficiency anaemia among women of reproductive age. Girls who regularly experience unusually heavy bleeding or persistent fatigue should discuss these symptoms with a healthcare professional rather than assuming they are simply part of having periods. Finding out why iron levels are low is important for choosing the right treatment.

Everyday eating and drinking habits can also affect iron absorption. The WHO advises that tea, coffee, cocoa, calcium, and bran from wholewheat flour or oats can reduce iron absorption when consumed alongside iron-rich foods. For girls who routinely drink tea with meals, the timing may therefore be worth reviewing as part of a broader approach to nutrition.

Why You Should Not Self-Treat Anaemia?

When constant tiredness becomes frustrating, buying an iron supplement from a pharmacy may seem like an easy solution. However, anaemia can have several causes, and iron supplements are not the right treatment for every type.

The World Health Organization (WHO) explains that treatment depends on the underlying cause. While iron deficiency may require iron supplementation and dietary changes, other forms of anaemia may need treatment for an underlying infection or chronic condition. Medical guidance also recommends that treatment be guided by a healthcare professional.

If fatigue, weakness, or dizziness persists, seek medical advice rather than guessing. A blood test can help identify whether anaemia is present and guide the next steps. Taking supplements without knowing the cause may delay the appropriate treatment.

Small Changes That Support Better Iron Levels

Everyday food choices can help support healthy iron levels. Include iron-rich foods such as meat, lentils, beans, chickpeas, and leafy green vegetables in regular meals. Pair plant-based iron sources with vitamin C-rich foods, such as oranges, guavas, tomatoes, or lemons, to help the body absorb iron. Avoid drinking tea or coffee with meals, as these can reduce iron absorption.

It is also important to pay attention to persistent symptoms. If tiredness, dizziness, or weakness continues, arrange a visit with a healthcare professional and ask whether a blood test is appropriate. Avoid starting iron supplements without medical advice, as treatment depends on the cause of the problem. Small, consistent changes to meals and seeking timely medical advice can help young girls take practical steps towards protecting their health.

Ultimately, anaemia is not simply a matter of feeling tired after a long day. For young girls balancing classes, exams, household responsibilities, and other demands, persistent fatigue can be easy to dismiss. Eating a varied diet, paying attention to menstrual health, and seeking medical advice when symptoms persist are practical steps towards better health. Iron supplements may help when iron deficiency is confirmed, but the right treatment depends on the cause. Recognising the signs and getting checked early can help young girls protect their well-being and keep up with daily life.

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