Understanding Iron Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

Iron deficiency in the body leads to a condition called iron deficiency anaemia, one of the most common forms of anaemia. In this condition, the body cannot make a critical component in red blood cells called haemoglobin, which carries oxygen. As a result, the rest of the body cannot get enough oxygen. Iron deficiency symptoms develop over time. Understanding these symptoms and getting timely medical attention is beneficial for quick recovery. This article discusses iron deficiency, its causes, symptoms, risk factors, and more.

What is Iron Deficiency?

Iron deficiency occurs when the body has lower levels of iron than necessary. Iron deficiency leads to a blood disorder called iron deficiency anemia. In this condition, the body lacks enough iron to make haemoglobin, a substance in healthy red blood cells that carries oxygen. As a result, the various organs and parts of the body cannot get enough oxygen, leaving one short of breath and tired.

What Causes Iron Deficiency?

Some common causes of iron deficiency include:

1. Inadequate Iron Intake

One of the most common causes of iron deficiency is not taking in enough iron through diet over extended periods. Iron is found in foods such as meat, eggs, and green leafy vegetables. It is essential during rapid growth and development periods.

2. Pregnancy or Blood Loss from Menstruation

Heavy bleeding during menstruation can cause iron deficiency in women. Pregnant women require more iron to fulfil the baby’s oxygen needs, which can result in a deficiency if not taken in adequate quantities.

3. Internal Bleeding

Certain conditions such as stomach ulcers, polyps in the colon/intestine or colon cancer are prone to internal bleeding, which can lead to an iron deficiency.

4. Inability to Absorb Iron

Certain surgeries or problems with the intestine can lead to an inability to absorb iron, leading to iron deficiency.

5. Genetics

Some genetic mutations and conditions, such as celiac disease, make it difficult for the body to absorb enough iron.

What are Iron Deficiency Symptoms?

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency appear gradually over time and include:

● Extreme fatigue
● Weakness
● Pale skin
● Headache or dizziness
● Inflammation or soreness in the tongue
● Chest pain
● Fast heartbeats and shortness of breath

What are the Iron Deficiency Risk Factors? 

The following people are at a higher risk of having iron deficiency anemia:

1. Women

Women lose blood during menstruation, which puts them at a more elevated risk of developing iron deficiency anemia.

2. Infants and Children

Infants, particularly those born prematurely or with a low weight, are at a higher risk of iron deficiency if their iron needs are not fulfilled via breast milk or formula. Children are at a rapid development stage and can suffer from iron deficiency if they don’t have an adequate diet.

3. Vegetarians

Vegetarians are at an elevated risk of iron deficiency if they don’t consume enough other iron-rich foods.

4. Frequent Blood Donors

People who donate blood frequently can have their iron stores depleted and suffer from iron deficiency.

How is Iron Deficiency Diagnosed? 

To diagnose iron deficiency, doctors can do the following iron deficiency tests:

1. Blood test: A blood test for iron deficiency looks for red blood cells’ size and colour, haemoglobin content in the blood, and percentage of red blood cells. Additionally, blood tests can determine the levels of a protein called ferritin, which helps store iron in the body. Abnormal levels can confirm iron deficiency.

2. Endoscopy: Endoscopy is used to determine if internal bleeding is causing iron deficiency. In this procedure, a tube with a light and camera is inserted from the mouth into the stomach to allow the doctor to look for sources of internal bleeding.

3. Colonoscopy: Colonoscopy is used to rule out intestinal problems and bleeding as the source of iron deficiency. In this procedure, a lighted, camera-containing tube is inserted from the rectum to look for sources of internal bleeding in the colon and rectum.

What Foods Can Prevent Iron Deficiency? 

Food items rich in iron can prevent iron deficiency. These include:

● Red meat
● Seafood
● Dark green, leafy vegetables
● Dried fruits such as raisins

Apart from these, foods rich in vitamin C are also essential for iron deficiency prevention, as they facilitate absorption of iron in the body. These food items include:

● Broccoli
● Grapefruit
● Orange
● Tomato
● Melons

Iron deficiency develops over time for several reasons. Typical symptoms of iron deficiency are shortness of breath and extreme fatigue. If left untreated, iron deficiency can cause severe complications in children and adults. Upon noticing symptoms of iron deficiency given here, it is a good idea to consult a doctor and book a basic anemia panel at Dr Lal PathLabs.

FAQs 

How can vegetarians consume enough iron?

Vegetarian sources of iron include:

● Dark green, leafy vegetables
● Dried fruits such as raisins
● Beans
● Iron-fortified cereals, breads and pasta

What are the complications of iron deficiency?

● Heart problems, such as enlarged heart or heart failure
● Problems during pregnancy
● Growth problems in children