In iron deficiency anemia, your body does not have enough iron to make hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. It can be caused by a number of factors, such as poor diet, blood loss, or malabsorption, to cause iron deficiency anemia, which causes your tissues and organs to not get enough oxygen. In addition to iron supplements and dietary changes, the underlying cause of the condition can be addressed.
Iron deficiency anemia can result from:
Inadequate intake of iron: If you do not eat enough foods that contain iron, such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, and leafy green vegetables, you may not get enough iron for your body’s needs.
Increased need for iron: Some situations may increase your body’s demand for iron, such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, growth spurts, or heavy exercise.
Blood loss: If you lose blood, you also lose iron. This can happen due to menstruation, childbirth, surgery, injury, or bleeding disorders.
Malabsorption: If you have a condition that affects your digestive system, such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or gastric bypass surgery, you may not be able to absorb iron properly from your food or supplements.
The symptoms of iron deficiency anemia may vary depending on the severity and duration of the condition. They may include:
Fatigue and weakness
Pale skin and mucous membranes
Shortness of breath and chest pain
Dizziness and headache
Cold hands and feet
Fast or irregular heartbeat
Brittle nails and hair loss
Craving for non-food items, such as ice, dirt, or clay (pica)
Sore or inflamed tongue and mouth
Reduced appetite and weight loss
Poor concentration and memory
Irritability and mood swings
Increased susceptibility to infections
A doctor will ask you about your medical history, symptoms, and diet. They will also check your vital signs, skin color, and nail condition. They may also order some blood tests, such as:
CBC (complete blood count): This test measures the number, size, and hemoglobin content of your red blood cells, as well as your white blood cells and platelets. Anemia indicates a low hemoglobin level, a low red blood cell count, or a low hematocrit (the percentage of red blood cells in your blood).
Serum iron: This test measures the amount of iron in your blood. A low serum iron level indicates iron deficiency.
Serum ferritin: This test measures the amount of iron stored in your body. A low serum ferritin level indicates iron deficiency.
Transferrin saturation: This test measures the percentage of iron-binding sites on a protein called transferrin that are occupied by iron. A low transferrin saturation indicates iron deficiency.
Serum transferrin receptor: This test measures the amount of a protein that helps transport iron into the cells. A high serum transferrin receptor level indicates iron deficiency.
The treatment of iron deficiency anemia aims to restore your iron levels and hemoglobin levels, as well as to treat the underlying cause of the condition. The treatment may include:
If your iron levels are not normal, your doctor may prescribe oral iron tablets or capsules, which you will need to take for several months. You should take them on an empty stomach with a glass of water or juice, and avoid taking them with milk, tea, coffee, or antacids, which can reduce iron absorption. Some side effects may occur, including nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and dark stools. Iron supplements should be taken according to your doctor's instructions.
Changing your diet: Foods rich in iron, such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, and leafy greens, should be included in your diet. In addition, you should eat foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, peppers, and broccoli, which can enhance your iron absorption. Avoid foods that can interfere with iron absorption, such as dairy products, tea, coffee, and whole grains.
You may be prescribed intravenous iron therapy if you are unable to tolerate oral iron supplements, have severe iron deficiency anemia, or have a condition that prevents iron absorption. Through a vein in your arm or hand, you receive iron. As a side effect, you may experience headache, fever, muscle pain, or allergic reactions. You should be monitored by your doctor during and after the procedure.
Your doctor may recommend a blood transfusion if you suffer from severe iron deficiency anemia that causes chest pain, shortness of breath, or heart failure. The procedure involves receiving blood from a donor who matches your blood type. You may need one or more units of blood, depending on your condition. You may experience some side effects, including fever, chills, itching, or allergic reactions. During and after the procedure, your doctor should monitor you.
You can prevent or reduce the risk of iron deficiency anemia by:
Eating a balanced diet that includes foods rich in iron and vitamin C
Taking iron supplements as prescribed by your doctor, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a condition that increases your iron needs
Avoiding foods and beverages that can interfere with iron absorption
Limiting alcohol intake, which can affect your liver and iron metabolism
Avoiding smoking, which can reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of your blood
Seeking medical attention if you have any signs of bleeding, infection, or inflammation
Having regular check-ups and blood tests to monitor your iron levels and hemoglobin levels
