Iron deficiency Symptoms & Causes

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The symptoms

Tiredness

Even while resting, your body still may be fatigued.

Pale skin

If you lack red blood cells, your skin might look pale.

Shortness of breath

You may have some shortness of breath, particularly with activity.

Dizziness

Becoming lightheaded or faint when you stand.

Cold hands and feet

You may find your hands and feet are cold more frequently.

Headaches

This could make you get headaches, because your body isn’t receiving enough oxygen.

Brittle nails

Your nails might become brittle and break frequently.

Unusual cravings

You may also have an appetite for non-food substances like ice, dirt or starch.

When to see a doctor?

What does an iron deficiency do to me?

If you’re exhibiting signs of iron deficiency, you should speak to a doctor. Iron levels are easy to check, your doctor can order a standard blood test to see if you’re running low. If your levels are normal, the doctor may look for other potential causes of your symptoms, so it’s best to collaborate for an accurate diagnosis.

It normally takes 1 to 2 months for the iron level to normalise with treatment. For those unable to take iron supplements, other treatment options exist. Sometimes, some added treatments are needed to effectively restore the iron levels.

Advised treatments

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The causes

What are the underlying causes of iron deficiency?

Not enough iron in your diet: Low iron can occur if you’re not getting enough iron-rich foods in your diet, like meat, dark green leafy vegetables or iron-fortified cereals.

Blood loss: Blood is lost from heavy periods, injury or internal bleeding, which makes your iron levels drop.

Pregnancy: Pregnant women need higher amounts of iron to support themselves and their body’s iron stores of iron, which often leads to a deficiency.

Problems absorbing iron: Some health conditions, like celiac disease, can affect your body’s ability to absorb dietary iron found in supplements and foods.

Chronic health issues: Chronic illnesses like kidney disease or cancer may drain your body’s iron reserves over time.

The risk factors

Meatless diet

Malnourished individual: Certain groups of people are at increased risk for iron deficiency anemia:

Women: Woman can be at greater risk for iron deficiency because of blood loss during a menstrual cycle or childbirth.

Infants and children: Babies, especially premature or low-birth-weight babies, may not get enough iron from breastmilk or formula. As children grow, they need more iron, and a poor diet can increase the risk of iron deficiency.

Vegetarians: Others who do not eat red meat also do not get enough iron unless eating other iron-rich foods.

Frequent blood donors: Iron levels can be reduced through regular blood donation. If you have a low hemoglobin level after you donate, you can increase the amount of iron in your diet. If you’re concerned, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor.

The complications

Hidden Dangers

What happens if it is left untreated?

Heart complications
When the body lacks sufficient iron, the heart has to pump harder to deliver oxygen to the body, which over time may result in irregular heartbeats or even heart enlargement.
Pregnancy risks
In pregnancy, severe anemia increases the risk of preterm and low birth weight babies. Iron supplementation during pregnancy can reduce these risks.

Growth and immunity issues
In infants and young children, iron deficiency can cause delays in growth and development. It also weakens the body and makes people more susceptible to diseases, so treating it becomes important for overall health.

The prevention

What foods can help you avoid iron deficiency anemia?

Iron is needed in sufficient amounts in our diet, so a heavy diet with iron or absorbed iron foods like beans, spinach, cereals and lean meat keeps your iron levels under the healthy range. Animal sources of iron (meat) are more easily absorbed by your body, but plant sources aren’t bad either when combined with vitamin C.

Improve your iron absorption

Eating vitamin C rich foods (like oranges or tomatoes) can help your body absorb iron in a better way.

When should I take iron supplements?

You might require iron tablets if you’re at risk of iron deficiency, for instance, during pregnancy, or if you have heavy periods. And you need to run it by your doctor before you take them.

Help restore iron levels quickly

You can take supplements that help you get an increase in the iron you have. Make sure you follow your doctor’s advice so you don’t take too much iron, and to help your body replenish its iron stores gradually.

What foods can block iron absorption?

Even foods that you might be eating daily, such as tea, coffee, dairy or some grains, can have a negative effect on iron absorption in the body. Do not take them immediately after meals high in iron.

Things that inhibit the absorption of iron

Iron-rich foods should be eaten several hours before and after foods that inhibit absorption. Which helps your body to absorb as much iron as possible.

How can I avoid losing too much blood?

Heavy periods and internal bleeding can deplete your iron. These are serious conditions and need to be treated so you don’t bleed out.

See a doctor for excessive blood loss

If you are bleeding too much consult your physician to get the cause and prevent iron deficiency anemia.

Why should I get regular blood tests?

Routine blood work can check your iron levels and catch signs of deficiency early. This stops it from becoming something more problematic.

Annual iron test

If you’re at a higher risk, you should check your iron levels at least once a year. If you are worried, ask your doctor how often you should be screened.

What foods can help you avoid iron deficiency anemia?
When should I take iron supplements?
What foods can block iron absorption?
How can I avoid losing too much blood?
Why should I get regular blood tests?

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Condition: Iron Deficiency