Table of Contents
Iron deficiency is a well-discussed topic as it is very common across all age groups. We need iron for various physiological functions. And we ought to see them before learning how deficiency will present.
Iron is
- a critical component of haemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that binds to oxygen in the lungs and carries it to tissues throughout the body. Without enough iron, the body cannot produce sufficient haemoglobin, leading to anaemia and impaired oxygen transport.
- a component of myoglobin, a protein found in muscle cells that stores oxygen for use during muscle contraction. This is crucial for energy production, particularly during physical activity.
- involved in several enzymatic reactions within cells, including those related to energy metabolism, DNA synthesis, and immune function. It is essential for cellular growth, development, and normal functioning.
- necessary for proper brain development and function. It plays a role in neurotransmitter synthesis and myelin formation, which are crucial for nerve signal transmission and cognitive function.
- required for the proper functioning of immune cells, including lymphocytes and macrophages, which are involved in defending the body against infections and diseases.
- required to the regulation of body temperature by facilitating oxygen delivery to cells, which is necessary for efficient metabolism and heat production.
It is also needed in Prenatal Development. Adequate iron intake is particularly important during pregnancy to support the increased blood volume and oxygen needs of both the mother and the developing fetus. Iron deficiency during pregnancy can lead to complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight.
As Iron has so many uses, without iron many body functions will be negatively affected. When these physiological processes are interrupted or impaired the body will show various signs and symptoms. When occurring alone, these signs do not indicate a serious problem, thus most of the time, they will be dismissed. This blog post is to tell you what these symptoms are and why you should not ignore them.
So, here are 10 signs of iron deficiency that you should not ignore.
10 signs of iron deficiency
Fatigue
Persistent fatigue and weakness, even after getting adequate rest, can be a sign of iron deficiency. This occurs because iron is essential for the production of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to body tissues. Without enough iron, oxygen delivery to cells is reduced, leading to fatigue.
Pale Skin
Iron deficiency can cause a pale or sallow complexion due to decreased haemoglobin levels. Reduced haemoglobin means less oxygen is being delivered to the skin and can result in paleness, particularly in the face, lips, and inner lining of the eyelids.
Shortness of Breath
Inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues can result in shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity or exertion. This occurs because the body struggles to meet the oxygen demands of muscles and other organs.
Weakness
General weakness and a sense of physical weakness or inability to perform daily activities can occur due to reduced oxygen delivery and energy production in cells.
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Iron deficiency can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly. This is because reduced oxygen supply to the brain affects its normal functioning.
Cold Hands and Feet
Poor circulation resulting from decreased oxygen transport can cause cold hands and feet, as the body prioritizes oxygen delivery to vital organs over the extremities.
Brittle Nails
Iron deficiency may manifest as brittle or spoon-shaped nails (koilonychia) that may become thin, concave, and more prone to breaking.
Hair Loss
Iron deficiency can also lead to hair loss or thinning, as inadequate oxygen and nutrients reach the hair follicles, affecting their growth and health.
Headaches
Chronic headaches, especially tension headaches, can be a symptom of iron deficiency due to decreased oxygen supply to the brain and subsequent changes in blood vessel function.
Restless Legs Syndrome
Iron deficiency has been associated with restless legs syndrome, a neurological condition characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them, particularly during periods of rest or inactivity.
You must remember that these symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions, so it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis if you experience any of these iron deficiency features. It can be properly diagnosed through blood tests, and treatment typically involves iron supplementation and dietary changes.
As iron is vital for various essential functions in the body, ignoring these signs can lead to significant health consequences. And now let’s see what they are.
Complications of Iron Deficiency Anaemia
Complications of Anemia
Iron deficiency anaemia, the most severe form of iron deficiency, can lead to serious complications if left untreated. These complications may include heart problems, such as an irregular heartbeat known as arrhythmia or heart failure, as well as complications during pregnancy, such as preterm birth or low birth weight.
Impaired Cognitive Function
Inadequate oxygen delivery to the brain due to iron deficiency can impair cognitive function, affecting memory, concentration, and overall mental alertness. This can impact academic and work performance and reduce quality of life.
Reduced Physical Performance
Iron deficiency can lead to fatigue, weakness, and decreased exercise tolerance, affecting physical performance and endurance. This can hinder daily activities, exercise routines, and overall quality of life.
Increased Risk of Infections
As we said at the beginning of this video, iron plays a role in immunity. That is why, iron deficiency can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses. This can lead to more frequent colds, respiratory infections, and other infectious diseases.
Delayed Growth and Development
Iron is essential for normal growth and development, particularly during infancy, childhood, and adolescence. Iron deficiency during these critical periods can result in delayed growth, developmental delays, and cognitive impairments that may have long-lasting effects.
Complications During Pregnancy
Iron deficiency during pregnancy can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby. These complications may include preterm birth, low birth weight, and maternal haemorrhage during childbirth.
Worsening of Underlying Health Conditions
While not only causing new health issues, iron deficiency can exacerbate underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, chronic kidney disease, and inflammatory bowel disease. Addressing iron deficiency is essential for managing these conditions and preventing further complications.
Finally, all of these complications may lead to,
Impaired Quality of Life
It can significantly lower the quality of life due to fatigue, weakness, difficulty concentrating, and other symptoms that interfere with daily activities, work, and social interactions.
So, addressing iron deficiency early through proper diagnosis and treatment is crucial for preventing complications, improving quality of life, and maintaining overall health and well-being.
Preventing involves incorporating iron-rich foods into your diet, ensuring adequate absorption of iron, and addressing any underlying causes that may contribute to iron deficiency.
Don’t forget to,
Include a variety of iron-rich foods in your diet; namely lean meats such as beef, poultry, pork, fish, shellfish, and eggs, legumes such as beans, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, fortified cereals, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, broccoli.
Try to pair Iron with Vitamin C as Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron or the type of iron found in plant-based foods. For this, you can simply include vitamin C-rich foods, such as citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, tomatoes, and broccoli, in your meals to boost iron absorption.
At the same time, avoid Inhibitors of Iron Absorption. So, avoid consuming tea, coffee, and calcium-rich foods or supplements with iron-rich meals, as these can interfere with iron absorption. Also, minimize the consumption of high-fibre foods and whole grains during meals containing iron-rich foods, as fibre can bind to iron and reduce its absorption.
If you’re unable to meet your iron needs through diet alone or have an increased risk of iron deficiency such as during pregnancy or menstruation, your healthcare provider may recommend iron supplements. If you are prescribed with a supplement, use it as per the prescription as excessive iron intake can also have adverse effects.
Now is your turn to identify and address iron deficiencies and protect your health!
