Iron is a mineral necessary for good health and body function. Red blood cells contain iron, which carries oxygen from the lungs to the cells and tissues. Iron is needed to make hemoglobin in the red blood cells. Without enough iron, hemoglobin production is limited. This lowers the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues and cells, affecting their function. Left untreated, iron depletion in the body can progress into iron-deficiency anemia.
Symptoms
Without enough iron, the body does not get enough iron-rich blood. According to the National Anemia Action Council, people with severe iron depletion may feel tired, weak, dizzy, short of breath or irritable. Additional symptoms may include pale skin, dry or brittle hair and nails, irregular heartbeats, cold hand or feet and sexual dysfunction. Symptoms may vary and can develop slowly as the anemia progresses. Rarely, an abnormal desire to chew ice or eat non-food items, called pica, may occur.
Causes
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies. An increase in the need for iron or a decrease in iron absorption can lead to deficiencies. Increased iron needs can occur in young children and toddlers who are growing at a rapid rate. Pregnant women, frequent blood donors and women with heavy menstrual periods may require extra iron. Vegetarian diets that are lacking in animal-based iron can lead to low levels of iron. Using medications, such as antacids, peptic ulcer or acid reflux medication in excess can interfere with the absorption of iron.
Risks
Left untreated, severe iron deficiencies can lead to additional health problems. Iron deficiency anemia may lead to physical and mental delays in infants and young children. The rate at which a child walks and talks can be affected. Anemia in children can also increase susceptibility to infections or increase the absorption of lead and the risk of lead poisoning. The Mayo Clinic says that anemia can lead to an irregular or increased heart rate. Iron deficiencies require the heart to work overtime, pumping extra blood to compensate for the decreased amount of oxygen reaching the cells. Premature births and low birth weight have been linked to severe iron deficiencies in pregnant women.
Treatments
A health-care physician should treat iron deficiencies and iron-deficiency anemia. Course of treatment may vary based on severity of the condition, cause and age. An iron supplement may be prescribed along with follow up blood tests after a period of time. Dietary changes, such as including more iron-rich foods, may be recommended. Patients who have lost a major amount of blood due to physical trauma or surgery may require a blood transfusion.
Considerations
People taking iron supplements may experience an upset stomach or constipation. Though best absorbed on an empty stomach, taking iron supplements with food may reduce stomach distress. It takes five to seven days for the body to begin producing red blood cells, which may begin to reduce symptoms. According to the National Anemia Council, hemoglobin levels should increase within two to three weeks of beginning treatment. With supplementation, mild to moderate anemia can typically reverse completely within two to three months. Speak with a health-care professional if symptoms do not subside.
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