A common cause of anemia
Iron deficiency anemia is among the most prevalent types of anemia.
Symptoms include fatigue, pale skin, andtachycardia (rapid heart rate).
The distinctive change in RBC structure is described asmicrocytic anemia.
Julie Bang / Verywell
Treatments for iron deficiency anemia include dietary modification,iron supplements, Injectafer treatments, orblood transfusion.
Symptoms
Typically, iron deficiency anemia causes nonspecific and vague symptoms, making it hard to recognize.
Depending on the cause, it can develop gradually, with effects worsening over time.
Associated Symptoms
Sometimes iron deficiency anemia occurs along with other symptoms.
Pregnancy
People who are pregnant can be prone to iron deficiency anemia.
Low iron levels cause iron deficiency anemia.
Iron is an essential mineral that you’re able to only get from your diet.
All of your cells need oxygen for energy, so low iron results in low energy.
Normally, RBCs have a lifespan of approximately three to four months.
Slow, persistent bleeding can cause iron deficiency anemia, and sudden rapid bleeding can cause it as well.
If you dont eat enough iron-containing food, you could become deficient.
It is measured in milligrams (mg).
Absorption
A number of gastrointestinal (GI) issues can interfere with iron absorption.
This mineral is normally absorbed in theduodenum, which is the first section of thesmall intestine.
Your diet can affect your iron absorption.
Vitamin C, found in fruits and vegetables, enhances the absorption of iron.
On the other hand, calcium, a mineral found in dairy products, inhibits iron absorption.
Bleeding
you might lose your iron stores due to bleeding.
Typically, your body responds to blood loss by making new RBCs.
Menstrual bleeding can also result in low iron, as can severe blood loss due to a traumatic injury.
This can be identified with acomplete blood count (CBC).
RBC Measures
Your CBC will include a report that details several RBC characteristics.
A stool or urine sample may be sent to a laboratory to be examined for evidence of blood.
Imaging tests may identify bleeding polyps or tumors.
Further tests can include invasive diagnostic examination of your GI system or bladder.
Treatment
Iron deficiency anemia is treated in several different ways.
Iron-rich foods include red meat, seafood, poultry, beans, vegetables, fruit, and enriched grains.
Iron supplements, Injectafer infusion, and blood transfusion are other options if your iron deficiency is severe.
Iron Supplements
Iron supplementsare available in oral pill or tablet form, and as an oral suspension.
These supplements are available over-the-counter (OTC) and as prescription formulations.
Each mL of Injectafer contains 50 milligrams (mg) of elemental iron.
It is given by two infusions, usually separated by seven days.
This process involves an infusion of blood into your vein.
This involves an infusion of your own blood if it was collected and stored before you experienced blood loss.
Treatment of your anemia should improve your symptoms.
Deloughery TG.Iron deficiency anemia.Med Clin North Am.
2017;101(2):319-332. doi:10.1016/j.mcna.2016.09.004
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.Iron-deficiency anemia.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Iron.
National Institutes of Health.Iron.
Genes (Basel).
American Association for Clinical Chemistry.Transferrin and iron-binding capacity (TIBC, UIBC).
Food and Drug Administration.Injectafer Label.
American Red Cross.Frequently asked questions about blood donation.
