Iron-deficiency anaemia
Also called: Anemia, Anaemia
Too few healthy red blood cells because the body lacks iron to make haemoglobin. It is the commonest anaemia worldwide, and in adults its cause (often blood loss) must be found.
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About 1.2 billion people; very common in women, children and pregnancy.
Causes
- Blood loss: heavy periods, gut bleeding (ulcers, cancer)
- Poor intake
- Malabsorption (coeliac disease)
- Increased need (pregnancy, growth)
- Hookworm infection
Risk factors
- Heavy periods
- Pregnancy
- Vegetarian diet without planning
- NSAID use
- Gut disease
Symptoms
- Tiredness and weakness
- Breathlessness
- Pale skin
- Palpitations
- Headaches
- Brittle nails, hair loss
- Craving ice (pica)
- Restless legs
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Full blood count (low haemoglobin, small cells)
- Ferritin
- Coeliac serology
- Endoscopy/colonoscopy in men and post-menopausal women
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Oral iron (e.g. ferrous sulfate once daily or alternate days)
- Intravenous iron if oral iron fails or is not tolerated
- Treat the cause (e.g. heavy periods)
Operations and procedures
- Blood transfusion for severe symptomatic anaemia
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Iron-rich foods (red meat, legumes, dark greens) with vitamin C
- Avoid tea with meals
Possible complications
- Heart strain
- Pregnancy complications
- Developmental delay in children
Prevention
- Iron-rich diet; supplements in pregnancy where advised
Outlook
Corrects within weeks of treatment once the cause is addressed.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for persistent tiredness or breathlessness; urgently for black stools.
Sources and further reading
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