Feeling suddenly dizzy or weak all the time? Is your skin looking paler than usual? These could be signs of iron deficiency. Iron is essential for making hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells that helps carry oxygen throughout your body. When you don’t have enough iron, it can lead to anemia, a condition where there’s a shortage of red blood cells. Let’s know the signs, symptoms, causes, and preventions to ensure ample iron and energy levels!
How does iron deficiency occur?
Iron deficiency happens when there’s an inadequate amount of hemoglobin which results in reduced oxygen flow to tissues and organs. Consequently, your heart has to put in extra effort to pump more oxygen-rich blood throughout your body, leading to fatigue and tiredness. Essentially, insufficient iron disrupts the efficient transportation of oxygen, affecting both your energy levels and putting a strain on your heart.
Signs and symptoms
The signs and symptoms of anemia are easily identifiable, however, you must take a blood test to know your hemoglobin levels.
- Weakness
- Feeling tired
- Poor appetite
- Cravings for substances like ice, dirt, or starch
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat
- Inflammation of the tongue
- Extreme fatigue
- Headache, dizziness, lightheadedness
It’s important to be aware of signs and symptoms to take necessary precautions and ensure timely intervention to avoid further complications.
Steps to prevent iron deficiency
Eat Iron-Rich Foods
Eat foods that are rich in food. Include iron-rich foods such as spinach, red meat, fish, beans, lentils, cereals, and whole grains in your diet.
Combined sources of Vitamin C
Consume iron-rich foods with sources of vitamin C, like oranges or bell peppers, which particularly enhances iron absorption.
Monitor Menstrual Health
Keep track of menstrual cycles and consult a healthcare professional for managing iron needs during menstruation.
Consider Iron Supplements
If needed, take iron supplements as recommended by a healthcare provider, especially during pregnancy or if diagnosed with iron deficiency.
Regular Health Check-ups
Schedule regular health check-ups to monitor iron levels and address any potential deficiencies straightaway.
Balanced Diet
Maintain a well-rounded, balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients essential for overall health and iron absorption.
Causes of Iron deficiency
Blood Loss
The primary cause of iron deficiency is blood loss, which can happen due to conditions like ulcers, heavy menstrual bleeding, or colon polyps where significant loss of red blood cells may result in an deficiency.
Lack of Iron in Diet
A lack of sufficient iron in the diet can lead to iron deficiency. However, consuming foods low in iron or an imbalanced diet that doesn’t provide enough iron can particularly contribute to this condition.
Poor Iron Absorption
Iron is absorbed in the small intestine, but certain intestinal disorders like celiac disease can hinder the absorption of nutrients, including iron.
Pregnancy
Iron deficiency can also be prevalent during pregnancy. The increased iron demands to support both the mother and the developing fetus can deplete iron levels, making pregnant women more susceptible to anemia.
Diagnosis
A blood test, typically a CBC test examines the below parameters to conclude an iron deficiency.
- Red blood cells (RBCs)
- White blood cells (WBCs)
- Haemoglobin
- Haematocrit
- Platelets
If the hematocrit and hemoglobin levels are low and RBCs are smaller than normal size, then it’s iron-deficiency anemia.
Conclusion
Iron deficiency has become more common particularly in women these days. Taking measures to maintain optimal iron levels is crucial for sustaining energy levels and overall well-being. Hence, it’s essential to prioritize a balanced diet rich in iron-containing foods. Monitoring iron levels and considering supplements are also advisable in the management of iron deficiency, ensuring a healthy life. To check your iron levels, book an appointment or visit the nearest Center of Aarthi Scans and Labs.
