Iron may be one of the most abundant elements on Earth, but the essential mineral isn’t as prevalent as it needs to be in some people. Nearly one in three Americans may have an iron deficiency, according to a recent study published in JAMA. And that’s problematic, because iron is a component of hemoglobin, the protein that lets red blood cells carry oxygen. “Too little iron could lead to low oxygen throughout the body,” says Dr. Lauren Thompson, a Roper St. Francis Healthcare OB/GYN.
Iron deficiency usually occurs for one of three reasons: dietary deficiency, blood loss (from heavy menstrual bleeding, a surgical procedure or gastrointestinal bleeding) or malabsorption (as can happen while taking certain medications; following bariatric surgery or with gastrointestinal issues like celiac disease, Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis). When iron levels dip low enough to slow red blood cell production, the condition becomes iron-deficiency anemia.
Stealth mode
While the signs may initially slip by unnoticed, as iron levels continue to dwindle, symptoms intensify. Iron-deficiency anemia can be marked by:
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Pale skin
- Chest pain or rapid heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Cold hands and feet
- Lightheadedness, dizziness or headaches
- Restless legs
- Pica (an affinity for eating dirt or ice)
Simple response
For a patient complaining of such symptoms, a doctor may order a CBC (complete blood count), which is a simple draw that measures the various blood cells. Depending on the patient’s hemoglobin and MCV (mean corpuscular volume) levels, the doctor may also order an iron study that measures ferritin, transferrin, total iron binding capacity and iron levels. “Ferritin is the best marker for iron-deficiency anemia,” adds the doctor.
Treatment could be as easy as supplementation with over-the-counter pills or via an IV infusion for those who don’t properly absorb the nutrient. When taking an over-the-counter supplement, be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the bottle.
As anemia frequently stems from heavy menstrual bleeding—the biggest risk factor for iron deficiency is being female—addressing this with birth control or outpatient surgery may also correct the problem.
To boost iron levels through diet, opt for rich sources such as:
- Red meat
- Seafood
- Dark, leafy greens
- Beans and legumes
- Nuts and seeds
- Raisins, dates, figs and apricots
- Sweet potatoes
Check in
“Left untreated, the problem doesn’t generally result in any long-term damage,” explains Dr. Thompson, “though iron-deficiency anemia could lead to an impaired immune system or heart trouble.” Still, she encourages patients not to dismiss their symptoms, as iron-deficiency anemia could be an indicator of another serious issue such as blood loss somewhere in the body. The condition also has a tremendous impact on a person’s quality of life.
So if you’re at risk or suffering from heavy periods, unexplained fatigue, dizziness or other symptoms, talk to your doctor about iron. Your oxygen levels will thank you.