Iron deficiency anemia

Overview

Iron deficiency anemia is a common type of anemia that occurs when the body lacks adequate iron. This condition affects the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the body's tissues. Iron deficiency anemia is often referred to as the most common form of anemia worldwide.

Types of Iron deficiency anemia

1. Nutritional iron deficiency anemia: This type of anemia is caused by a lack of dietary iron or inadequate iron absorption from food.
2. Chronic disease-related iron deficiency anemia: This type of anemia is caused by chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, or cancer, which can lead to iron deficiency.
3. Pernicious anemia: This type of anemia is caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12, which is necessary for iron absorption.

Causes of Iron deficiency anemia

• Inadequate iron intake: Consuming insufficient iron-rich foods or supplements can lead to iron deficiency.
• Poor iron absorption: Certain conditions, such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease, can impair iron absorption from food.
• Chronic blood loss: Menstrual bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, or other types of chronic blood loss can lead to iron deficiency.
• Pregnancy: Women who are pregnant may experience increased iron demands due to fetal growth and development.
• Inadequate vitamin C intake: Vitamin C is necessary for iron absorption, so a lack of vitamin C can contribute to iron deficiency.

Risk Factors of Iron deficiency anemia

• Age: Older adults are more likely to experience iron deficiency anemia due to decreased iron intake and impaired absorption.
• Gender: Women are more likely to experience iron deficiency anemia due to menstruation and pregnancy.
• Pregnancy: Women who are pregnant are at higher risk of developing iron deficiency anemia due to increased iron demands.
• Vegetarian or vegan diet: Individuals who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet may be at higher risk of developing iron deficiency anemia due to limited iron intake from animal sources.
• Chronic diseases: Certain chronic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease, can increase the risk of developing iron deficiency anemia.

Symptoms of Iron deficiency anemia

Preventions of Iron deficiency anemia

• Consuming iron-rich foods: Consuming foods rich in iron, such as red meat, poultry, fish, and fortified cereals, can help prevent iron deficiency anemia.
• Vitamin C intake: Consuming foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and leafy greens, can enhance iron absorption.
• Avoiding cooking methods that reduce iron absorption: Cooking methods that reduce iron absorption, such as boiling or overcooking, should be avoided.

Diagnosis of Iron deficiency anemia

• Complete Blood Count (CBC) test: A CBC test measures the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin levels.
• Iron studies test: An iron studies test measures serum ferritin levels, which indicate the amount of stored iron in the body.
• Red blood cell indices test: A red blood cell indices test measures mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC).

Treatment for Iron deficiency anemia

1. Iron supplements: Iron supplements may be prescribed to increase hemoglobin levels and treat iron deficiency anemia.
2. Folic acid supplements: Folic acid supplements may be prescribed to treat vitamin B12 deficiency.
3. Dietary changes: Dietary changes may be recommended to increase iron intake from food sources.

When to seek medical attention ?

1. Sudden onset of fatigue or shortness of breath: If you experience sudden onset of fatigue or shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately.
2. Persistent pale skin or dizziness: If you experience persistent pale skin or dizziness, seek medical attention immediately.