People with anemia may experience shortness of breath when there aren’t enough red blood cells to transport oxygen. Without treatment, it can cause other complications.

Anemia is a blood disorder that can be short term or chronic. It happens when a person has a low red blood cell count.

Multiple factors can lead to a lower red blood cell count, such as vitamin deficiencies, pregnancy, and having recently given birth.

One common symptom that can manifest from it is shortness of breath (dyspnea). Understanding why this symptom occurs and how to manage it in everyday life can help people with anemia better manage their condition.

There are different types of anemia. While all of these versions affect the red blood cell count, the causes and symptoms associated with each version can vary.

Both the acute and chronic forms of anemia can lead to shortness of breath because there are not enough red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the body.

The body relies on a precise ecosystem that consistently exchanges carbon dioxide (CO2) for oxygen. For this to occur efficiently, you need enough red blood cells circulating.

There is limited research into anemia as the sole cause of shortness of breath. Research into co-occurring anemia and shortness of breath may help to better understand the link.

Why does it get worse at night?

Similar to many other breathing conditions, just simply lying down can make it harder to breathe.

Orthopnea refers to shortness of breath when lying down. It can happen because your supine (lying down) position puts additional pressure on your diaphragm, making it feel like you have to work harder for each breath

However, there are other causes of orthopnea, commonly heart failure. It is essential to consult a medical professional if you experience increased difficulty breathing when lying down. They can help confirm whether anemia or another condition is the cause.

Directly treating anemia may help improve breathing.

Treatments can depend on the type of anemia. For example, selecting nutrient-rich foods and possibly supplementing can be effective in treating iron and vitamin deficiency anemia.

More serious forms of anemia may require treatments such as blood transfusions and bone marrow transplants.

Medical professionals may also recommend short-term fixes for shortness of breath while they determine the underlying cause or create a longer-term treatment plan. Examples include:

  • oxygen supplementation
  • breathing techniques
  • certain medications that can help with breathlessness, such as pain relief and bronchodilators

When to seek emergency care

Shortness of breath can be a difficult experience, but it’s usually a temporary symptom. Your breathing typically returns to normal within a short period of time.

However, if shortness of breath is severe, frequent, or accompanied by dizziness or fainting, seek immediate medical help.

Anemia can cause shortness of breath. This may occur because there are not enough red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the body.

Let a medical professional know if you experience shortness of breath. It’s essential to work with a professional to develop a personalized treatment plan for anemia. Treating anemia can help alleviate shortness of breath and other symptoms.

The medical professional can also recommend short-term treatments for shortness of breath, such as breathing techniques and bronchodilators.