Iron Deficiency

Overview

Iron deficiency anaemia is a condition where the blood has inadequate healthy red blood cells due to insufficient iron. Without sufficient iron, the body will be unable to produce enough red blood cells that allow carrying oxygen (hemoglobin)

Signs and Symptoms

Extreme fatigue, Weakness, Pale skin, Chest pain/fast heartbeat or shortness of breath, Headache/dizziness or lightheadedness, Cold hands and feet, Inflammation or soreness of your tongue, Brittle nails, Unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances such as ice, dirt or starch, Poor appetite especially in infants and children with iron deficiency anemia

Common Causes

Pregnancy, Inability to absorb iron, Lack of iron in your diet, Blood loss

Risk Factors

Women, Infants, and children, Vegetarians, Frequent blood donors

Investigation Techniques

Blood test, Iron study, Colonoscopy, Ultrasound, Endoscopy

Treatment and Prevention

Iron tablets, Blood transfusion, Iron rich diet