Iron deficiency anemia
Iron deficiency anemia is common when blood lacks adequate healthy red blood cells.
Red blood cells (RBC) transport oxygen to the body’s tissues.
Iron deficiency anemia results due to insufficient iron content in the body.
Iron deficiency anemia symptoms
Iron deficiency anemia can initially be so mild that it is not recognized. The signs and symptoms, however, worsen as the body’s iron deficiency and anemia worsen.
Signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anemia might include:
- Extreme tiredness
- Weakness
- Light skin
- Shortness of breath, an accelerated heartbeat, or chest pain
- Headache, lightheadedness, or vertigo
- Chilly fingers and toes
- The pain or inflammation of your tongue
- Broken nails
- Unusual desires for things like cold, dirt, or starch
- Specifically in newborns and kids with iron deficient anemia, poor appetite
When to seek a doctor?
Consult a doctor if you or your kid experiences symptoms that could indicate iron deficiency anemia. It is not recommended to self-diagnose or treat iron deficiency anemia. Therefore, consult a doctor for a diagnosis rather than self-medicating with iron supplements. Putting too much iron into your body might be harmful because it can harm your liver and lead to other issues.
Causes for Iron deficiency anemia
The frequent cause of iron deficiency anemia in men and women is stomach and intestine hemorrhage.
Iron deficiency may be brought on by:
- Consuming NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines.
- Gastric ulcers
- Food pipe or bowel inflammation (esophagus)
- Piles
- Stomach or bowel cancer, albeit this is less prevalent
Iron deficiency anemia could result from other ailments or behaviors resulting in blood loss.
Treatments and self-care for iron deficiency anemia
The Doctor will advise medication if the cause of your anemia has been identified (for instance, an ulcer or hefty periods).
A doctor will suggest iron tablets to replenish the iron missing from your body if the blood test reveals that your red is low.
Your doctor will recommend foods that are high in iron, so you can consume more of them if your diet contributes to your iron deficiency anemia.
Drink and eat more:
- Veggies with dark-green leaves
- Bread and cereals with added iron (fortified)
- Meat
- Pulses (beans, peas, and lentils)
Reduce your intake of food and liquids:
- Tea
- Coffee
- Dairy products
Foods high in phytic acid, including whole grain cereals, can prevent your body from absorbing iron from other foods and supplements.
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022