According to "Nutrition and You" by Joan Salge Blake, iron is the most abundant mineral on Earth and in the human body. Approximately two-thirds of the iron in the body is found in hemoglobin, which is a protein that forms red blood cells. Women who experience abnormal menstrual periods can develop iron deficiency.
Physiology of Blood
A red blood cell is responsible for carrying oxygen to the body tissues and removing carbon dioxide so it can be expelled as waste. The iron-rich hemoglobin on each red blood cell binds oxygen as well as carbon dioxide. An inadequate number of red blood cells due to a loss of iron causes the body tissues to become deprived of oxygen. This condition is referred to as iron-deficiency anemia.
Considerations
According to Harvard University, blood loss is the leading cause of iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia in women is often due to blood loss through heavy menstrual periods or prolonged menstrual periods. Iron deficiency that develops as a result of heavy menstrual periods usually develops gradually, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of iron deficiency anemia is fatigue. Other symptoms that may develop include shortness of breath, dizziness, headache, decreased temperature in the hands and feet, pale skin and gums and chest pain. As iron deficiency progresses, it can cause brittle nails, swelling of the tongue, cracks in the mouth, recurrent infections and an enlarged spleen, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
Treatment
Initial treatment for iron deficiency consists of oral iron supplementation. The abnormal menstrual bleeding can usually be corrected with the use of oral contraceptives, which supply a steady flow of female sex hormones that regulate the reproductive cycle. Once iron levels are corrected, a diet rich in iron should be followed. Good food sources of iron include meat, poultry, spinach, peanuts, peanut butter, eggs, peas and fresh and dried fruits.
Complications
If left untreated, iron deficiency can lead to irregular or rapid heartbeat. MayoClinic.com notes that the lack of iron and red blood cells causes the heart to pump harder in an effort to compensate and supply the body tissues with oxygen.
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