Without enough iron in the blood, you might feel weak, tired, and short of breath.
Iron is necessary to makehemoglobinthe protein that helps red blood cells carry oxygen.
IDA occurs because the body is low on iron.
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There are many reasons why you might becomeiron deficient.
Here is what you oughta know about common causes and risk factors of iron deficiency anemia.
There are many reasons why a person may not be getting enough iron in their diet.
It might be because they practice a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle and arent replacing meat with other iron-rich foods.
Celiac disease is a digestive condition where your immune system reacts abnormally to gluten.
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining.
This throw in of heavy blood flow can deplete the bodys iron storage.
If you experience this pop in of bleeding, you should see your doctor.
They can prescribe treatments to reduce heavy flow and reduce the risk of anemia and other health problems.
This might include severe pain in the mid to upper abdomen anddark or black stools.
Pregnancy
IDA is common during pregnancy.
Globally,anemia in pregnancyis estimated to occur in 41.8% of pregnancies.There can be various reasons for anemia.
How often IDA, specifically, occurs in pregnancy is unknown.
Pregnancy is a time when double the amount of iron is needed.
The body needs iron to make more blood to supply oxygen to the growing fetus.
If you dont have enough iron stores or get enough iron while pregnant, you might develop IDA.
Chronic Kidney Disease
IDA can be a complication ofchronic kidney disease(CKD).
CKD means the kidneys are damaged and can no longer filter blood correctly.
This damage leads to waste and fluids building up in the body.
Risks are also greater during pregnancy, after delivery, and while breastfeeding.
Genetics
Family and genetics may play a part in the development of IDA.
Two inherited conditionshemophiliaandvon Willebrand diseasecan cause a person to lose iron because of excessive bleeding.
Age
Some age groups may have an increased risk for IDA.
Chronic lead poisoning and absorption can inhibit the bodys ability to produce hemoglobin, increasing the risk for IDA.
Lifestyle
Certain lifestyle habits can increase a persons risk for iron deficiency anemia.
Age, certain genetic conditions, and some lifestyle choices are also risk factors.
Your doctor can administer a simple blood test to determine the source of your symptoms.
Iron supplementation can help to restore iron to normal levels.
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