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Iron-deficiency anemia is a form of anemia caused by lack of iron. The body needs iron to make hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to body tissues. Much of the iron our bodies absorbs is stored in the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. When there is not enough iron in the bloodstream, the body uses the bone marrow reserves. If this iron stored in the bone marrow is low or depleted, red blood cells do not form properly: they are smaller than usual (microcytosis) and fewer are produced. As a result, less hemoglobin is available to transport oxygen throughout the body. Iron-deficiency anemia is the leading nutritional deficiency in the world and the most common type of anemia. 1, 2 In the United States, approximately 5% of women and 2% of men have iron-deficiency anemia. 3 What causes iron-deficiency anemia? Iron-deficiency anemia is caused by low iron levels in the body, which may be the result of: - Lack of iron in the diet.
- Poor absorption of iron by the body.
- Bleeding caused by conditions such as ulcers, heavy menstrual periods, or cancer.
What are the symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia? Symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia include: - Fatigue.
- Dizziness.
- Irritability.
- Headaches.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Shortness of breath during exercise.
- A pale appearance.
- Brittle nails.
- Cracked lips.
If left untreated, iron-deficiency anemia can cause: Short attention span.
Weakened immune system.
A decreased ability to process information.
Developmental and behavioral problems in young children and infants that may be permanent. How is iron-deficiency anemia diagnosed? If iron-deficiency anemia is suspected, your health professional will conduct a physical exam, record your medical history, and ask you about symptoms. Your health professional usually will recommend tests to check for low iron levels and associated anemia. Possible tests include a complete blood count (CBC) to analyze blood cells and iron tests to help determine the type and severity of anemia. What is the treatment for iron-deficiency anemia? The goal of treatment for iron-deficiency anemia is to restore iron levels to normal. Treatment may include: Iron supplementation. Diet changes. Treating any underlying problems, such as blood loss, that might be causing the iron deficiency. 2012-02-10
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