Iron is an essential mineral to the human body; iron transports oxygen to red blood cells and aides the body in cell growth and development. The body receives iron by consuming foods high in the mineral, such as meat, beans and lentils. A variety of foods are iron-fortified and iron-enriched to increase levels, including cereals and bread. High levels of iron are toxic and can cause damage to vital organs including the heart, liver and tissue. Symptoms are usually not noticeable until damage has occurred. Low levels of iron cause fatigue, heart complications and delayed growth. Regular checks of iron levels can determine if levels are high, low or in the normal range.
Step 1
Visit a medical professional for blood work. Be prepared to have a small sample of blood taken; a small needle will be inserted into the vein to remove a sample of blood. Discuss any abnormal signs or symptoms you are feeling if iron levels are a main concern.
Step 2
Ask for a complete blood count (CBC), which includes red blood cell count, hemoglobin and hematocrit. Red blood cells carry oxygen, and the hemoglobin is the specific protein component involved in the process. A hematocrit level reveals the ratio of red blood cells in comparison with the plasma.
Step 3
Have the lab perform additional tests if high iron levels are questioned. Check serum transferrin saturation and serum ferritin. Request these additional studies, as they are not part of regular medical screening. Ferritin levels will reveal how much iron the body is storing. Include these tests if you have hemochromatosis, high levels of iron, in your family. The tests can detect high iron levels before symptoms occur.
Step 4
Prepare a sample of stool to be tested for occult or hidden blood. Follow the medical professional's advice for concerning diet and medication prior to the test. Take a stool kit home with you from the doctor's office or purchase one at a pharmacy. Depending on the kit, a small amount of stool is place in a container to be tested by the laboratory. Other tests require you to smear the stool on a chemically treated piece of cardboard. Be prepared to conduct the test two to three days in a row, states the Mayo Clinic. A positive reading may indicate internal bleeding, which can be an indicator of low iron levels.
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