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What Is Iron Deficiency Anemia?
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common nutritional disorder worldwide. It is a condition characterized by a deficiency of iron levels in the blood, often due to blood loss or pregnancy. It is treated by taking iron pills and supplements, as well as eating iron-rich foods. One of the primary functions of iron is to assist in the formation of a protein called hemoglobin. Hemoglobin transports oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
If a person suffers from iron deficiency anemia, their risk of worsening anemia increases.
What Are the Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia?
- Feeling tired and weak.
- Shortness of breath.
- Pale skin.
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
- Poor memory and concentration.
- Headache.
- Lack of energy and difficulty in performing physical exercises.
- Hair loss and brittle nails.
- Ringing in the ears.
- Craving to eat unusual foods or substances like dirt and ice.
- Difficulty swallowing.
What Are the Causes of Iron Deficiency Anemia?
There are three main causes of iron deficiency anemia:
1. Not consuming enough iron-rich foods. The body can store iron but cannot make it, so it must obtain iron from food.
2. Absorption problems due to digestive disorders that lead to poor nutrient absorption, making the body unable to absorb nutrients (such as celiac disease).
3. Blood loss due to heavy menstrual cycle, injuries, surgeries, stomach ulcers, hemorrhoids, or anal fissures.
Some people require more iron than others, such as:
- Children who need breast milk or iron-fortified formula in their first year.
- Adolescents (especially girls).
- Females with menstrual cycles.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women: during pregnancy, blood volume increases, requiring more iron to produce hemoglobin needed to deliver oxygen to the fetus. Insufficient iron stores during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing iron deficiency anemia.
What Are the Diagnostic Methods?
The doctor takes the patient's medical history, and conducts a physical examination, and may order additional procedures as needed, including:
Laboratory tests such as:
- Complete blood count test.
- Measuring iron levels in the blood.
- Testing for occult blood in the stool.
What Are the Treatment Methods for Iron Deficiency Anemia?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the anemia. Based on the cause, the doctor will determine the appropriate treatment for the patient, which may include:
- Iron supplements.
- Iron injections for severe iron deficiency.
- Increasing intake of iron-rich foods.
- Consuming foods containing vitamin C can help improve iron absorption.
- Reducing intake of foods and beverages that inhibit iron absorption, such as calcium, tea, and coffee.
- In severe cases, the doctor may recommend a blood transfusion.
What Are the Prevention Methods for Iron Deficiency Anemia?
Ensure meeting the daily iron requirements by consuming iron-rich foods. The following table shows the daily requirement based on gender and age:
| Gender | Age | Daily Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Women | 14 to 18 years | 15 mg |
| Women | Over 19 years | 18 mg |
| Women | Pregnant and Breastfeeding | Varies according to the age; 9 to 27 mg |
| Men | 14 to 18 years | 11 mg |
| Men | Over 19 years | 8 mg |
What Are the Complications of Untreated Iron Deficiency Anemia?
Untreated iron deficiency anemia may:
- Iron deficiency anemia increases susceptibility to infections by weakening the immune system.
- Increases the risk of heart diseases, such as irregular heartbeat and heart failure.
- Causes pregnancy complications, such as preterm delivery, increased bleeding during childbirth, low birth weight, anemia, and delayed growth in the child.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you suspect you have iron deficiency anemia or have any symptoms associated with it, it is crucial to see your doctor. Make sure to consult your doctor before taking any iron supplements to determine the appropriate dosage for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the difference between anemia and iron deficiency anemia?
Iron deficiency anemia is a type of anemia caused by a lack of iron. It is one of the most common types of anemia.
What are iron-rich foods?
Iron is naturally present in many foods and added to some fortified food products. Sources of iron include:
- Meat, seafood, and poultry.
- Iron-fortified breakfast cereals, bread, and pasta.
- Legumes, such as white beans and lentils.
- Peas and spinach.
- Nuts and some dried fruits, like raisins and apricots.
