Iron Deficiency Anemia: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Iron deficiency anemia is a condition in which insufficient iron results in inadequate hemoglobin production, reducing the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Without adequate iron, the body cannot produce enough healthy red blood cells. Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency globally, affecting billions of people.

Iron is essential for hemoglobin synthesis and is stored in the body with limited excretion.

Common causes:

• Chronic blood loss (menstrual, GI tract)
• Inadequate dietary intake
• Malabsorption (celiac disease, Crohn's disease)
• Pregnancy and lactation
• Vegetarian/vegan diets
• Recent surgery

Risk groups:

• Menstruating women
• Pregnant women
• Young children
• Elderly persons
• Persons on restrictive diets

Early symptoms may include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Pallor (pale skin)
• Palpitations
• Difficulty concentrating
• Cold hands and feet
• Headaches

Severe deficiency can cause heart disease exacerbation and syncope.

Diagnosis involves:

• Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels
• Serum ferritin (iron stores)
• Serum iron and transferrin saturation
• TIBC (total iron-binding capacity)
• Peripheral blood smear (microcytic, hypochromic RBCs)
• Investigation of underlying cause

Iron supplementation:

• Oral iron (ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate)
• Typical dose: 150-200 mg elemental iron daily
• Take on empty stomach for better absorption
• Duration: 3-6 months after hemoglobin normalization

Intravenous iron:

• For severe deficiency or oral intolerance
• Faster hemoglobin correction

Dietary interventions:

• Increase iron-rich foods (red meat, poultry, legumes)
• Ascorbic acid enhances absorption
• Avoid calcium, coffee, tea with iron

Treatment of underlying cause (GI investigation, menorrhagia management).

Prevention strategies include:

• Balanced diet with adequate iron
• Treatment of menorrhagia
• Screening in high-risk groups
• Prenatal iron supplementation
• Infection prevention

See a doctor for persistent fatigue, dyspnea, or weakness. Investigation of iron deficiency cause is essential before treating. Regular monitoring ensures adequate response to therapy.