How to Recognize Symptoms of Iron Deficiency

How can you tell if you're not getting enough iron? Sometimes, you can be deficient in a vital vitamin or mineral and not even be aware of it. However, an iron deficiency, sometimes called iron-deficiency anemia, can lead to serious problems. Learning how to recognize symptoms of iron deficiency can help you avoid such issues as developmental growth or heart problems.
Iron deficiency anemia can be caused by inadequate nutritional intake, which doesn't supply the red blood cells necessary for life with enough iron to function properly. This type of deficiency can affect all ages of males or females, but is more commonly found in women of childbearing age.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Pay attention to any ongoing feelings of fatigue or weakness. This may be one of the first noticeable symptoms of an iron deficiency, because the red blood cells that are necessary for strength and energy are fewer in number due to inadequate supplies of iron.

2. Look at your skin in a mirror. Anemia produces pale skin and fingernails. Your eyes may appear lackluster and dull.

3. Assess your body for general feelings of malaise. Many individuals suffering from iron-deficiency anemia don't have a lot of energy or desire to engage in normal routines or activities.

4. Sensitivity to cold is also a symptom of anemia, as are feeling of dizziness or shortness of breath.

5. Sleeping may be difficult, because many individuals suffering from anemia experience unexplainable restless leg syndrome or restlessness at night.

Tips & Warnings

• Risks for developing iron deficiency anemia increase with pregnancy, or from a lack of nutrition. Children and teens may be more prone to periods of anemia because their bodies don't get enough iron or other vital nutrients. Make sure you eat a properly balanced diet and take vitamin and mineral supplements if desired.
• Left untreated, a serious iron deficiency anemia may lead to growth and development problems in children or heart problems in adults. If you believe you or someone you know may be suffering from anemia, schedule a visit with your doctor for assessment.

Resources

• Dangers of Iron Deficiency in Toddlers
• From WHO - Extent and Magnitude of Iron Deficiency and Anemia
• Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet - Iron

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