Am I Anemic?

Question
I have never considered myself unhealthy or even stopped to think that there could be anything wrong with my blood. In November, when I tried to donate blood (I had donated a few times before) my iron level was at 11.6. When exercising with friends in February they noticed that my skin became somewhat jaundicey and I became faint easily (I am athletic and have played rigorous sports all my life). This year I am living with roommates and we have been arguing about temperatures in the house because everyone wakes up sweating while I wake up shivering. I also get dizzy often when I stand up. I believe that I have a healthy diet, stay very active and am in good physical shape. Could I be anemic?

Answer
Dear MJ,

Well, you certainly could be anemic, so you should see a doctor ASAP!
It may have been your hemoglobin level that was 11.6, which is what they usually check to confirm your blood is at a good level for donation.
There are all kinds of anemia--it could be an iron deficiency, a vitamin deficiency, or some other issue in your body that is preventing you from developing healthy red blood cells.

If your skin appears jaundiced (with a yellow tinge) or the whites of your eyes appear yellow, this is indicative of a problem with your liver, and another reason to see your physician immediately for diagnosis and treatment.

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