Can anemia during pregnancy cause myocardial ischemia?

Pregnancy-related anemia may cause myocardial ischemia. The main reason is that during pregnancy-related anemia, the number of red blood cells in the pregnant woman's body decreases, leading to reduced oxygen content in the blood, which subsequently affects the heart's blood supply function. As an essential organ responsible for systemic blood circulation, a decline in the heart's ability to pump blood directly results in myocardial ischemia. The increased cardiac workload during pregnancy can also exacerbate the condition of myocardial ischemia.

Pregnancy-related anemia may also lead to decreased blood pressure, further affecting cardiac perfusion and indirectly causing myocardial ischemia. Additionally, pregnancy-related anemia may be accompanied by other cardiovascular complications, such as hypertension and preeclampsia, which can further increase the risk of myocardial ischemia.

To prevent myocardial ischemia caused by anemia during pregnancy, pregnant women should maintain a balanced diet and consume more iron-rich foods such as animal liver, red dates, and spinach, to replenish the body's iron stores. Ensuring adequate sleep and avoiding excessive fatigue can also help alleviate anemia symptoms and reduce the burden on the heart.