Introduction
Iron is a crucial mineral for human health, and it plays a critical role in the production of red blood cells that carry oxygen to various parts of the body. Iron deficiency, or anemia, is a common condition in which the body lacks an adequate amount of iron. It can cause a wide range of symptoms that can vary in severity from mild to severe. This article aims to inform you about the symptoms of low iron levels, how it can be diagnosed and treated as well as prevention techniques.
Symptoms indicating low iron levels
The first signs of iron deficiency can be difficult to identify as they are often mild and easily overlooked. However, persistent symptoms should never be ignored, such as:
- Fatigue: Feeling more tired than usual is one of the most common symptoms of iron deficiency, as low iron levels can disrupt the supply of oxygen in the body, making you feel exhausted all the time.
- Weakness: General feelings of weakness can be another sign of low iron levels, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue.
- Shortness of breath: Due to the lack of healthy red blood cells carrying oxygen around your body, you can experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing especially during physical activities.
- Pale skin: Low iron can result in pail skin and decreased blood flow it can make you look very pale and if left untreated, the condition can worsen over time.
Blood tests to diagnose iron deficiency
If you suspect that you may have iron deficiency, consult a healthcare professional who will evaluate your symptoms and carry out the necessary blood tests to diagnose iron deficiency. There are three primary blood tests that are typically done:
- Serum ferritin test: This test measures the level of iron your body has stored. Iron is usually stored in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. A low level of ferritin indicates that the body’s iron reserves are depleted.
- Transferrin saturation test: This test measures the percentage of transferrin which is a protein responsible for transporting iron throughout the body, that is saturated with iron. An abnormal range suggests that iron levels are low.
- Hemoglobin test: The hemoglobin test determines the level of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that is responsible for carrying oxygen. If the hemoglobin levels are low, it may indicate iron deficiency.
Causes of iron deficiency
The underlying reasons behind iron deficiency can be varied. Some of the most common causes are:
- Inadequate dietary intake: Iron is an essential nutrient that the body cannot produce on its own, and so it must be obtained from the food you eat. A diet that lacks iron-rich foods such as red meat, beans, and leafy greens can cause an iron deficiency.
- Blood loss: Blood loss can result from various reasons such as heavy menstrual cycles, gastrointestinal bleeding, injuries, and surgery. Chronic blood loss can lead to a lack of iron in the body.
- Chronic conditions such as kidney disease: Certain chronic illnesses can impair the absorption or utilization of iron by the body. This includes inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, and kidney disease, among others.
Treatments for low iron levels
Once iron deficiency has been confirmed, it can be treated using several methods, such as:
- Iron supplements: Iron supplements are prescribed when changes in the diet alone are insufficient. Supplements are available in pill and liquid form. They may cause some side effects such as stomach cramping, constipation or diarrhea, however, these side effects usually diminish over time.
- Intravenous injections: People with severe iron deficiencies may require intravenous infusion to increase their iron levels; however, this is less common in comparison to taking iron supplements.
- Lifestyle modifications: Lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthy iron-rich diet by consuming leafy greens, beans, and meats can help prevent and treat iron deficiency.
Foods that are rich sources of iron
Including some of these iron-rich foods into your diet can help prevent iron deficiency:
- Leafy greens: Leafy greens are a great source of iron. These include spinach, kale, collard greens, and broccoli.
- Red meat: Red meat is also an excellent source of iron. However, it’s important to consume it in moderation
- Fortified cereals: Many cereals found in grocery stores are fortified with iron, making for a convenient and accessible source of iron
Anemia caused by low iron levels
Low iron levels can cause anemia, which is a condition arising from the lack of healthy red blood cells. Anemia can present different types, with the three most common types being:
- Iron-deficiency anemia: This is a type of anemia caused by insufficient iron levels, which affect the production of hemoglobin.
- Pernicious anemia: This is a type of anemia caused by a deficiency in Vitamin B12, which is important for making red blood cells.
- Hemolytic anemia: This is a condition in which the body’s red blood cells are destroyed faster than they are produced. This can be caused by a genetic disorder, exposure to toxic chemicals, or an autoimmune disease.
Iron deficiency anemia accounts for many anemia cases around the world, especially in children and women of childbearing age
Prevention of iron deficiency
Preventing iron deficiency is possible by following these simple guidelines:
- Dietary changes: Consume iron-rich foods, including red meat, seafood, beans, nuts, and dark leafy greens. It is also recommended to eat foods containing vitamin C, which increases iron absorption from non-meat sources.
- Regular exercise: Regular exercise can help stimulate blood circulation and increase the production of red blood cells.
- Avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption: Smoking and alcohol consumption can inhibit your body’s absorption of iron and exacerbate existing iron deficiencies. Avoiding them altogether or reducing your intake can be beneficial for your overall health.
Conclusion
Iron deficiency can be a common condition and often goes undetected, particularly in the early stages when symptoms may be mild. Suspecting that you might have low iron levels, it’s important to look out for symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Detecting and treating this deficiency is essential for your overall health and quality of life, so it’s vital that you get diagnosed if you suspect an iron deficiency. The good news is that iron deficiency can be treated by making lifestyle changes, eating iron-rich foods, and with iron supplements. Preventing and treating this deficiency is essential for your overall health, so take action today and book an appointment with your healthcare professional for a blood test.
