As an adult, your body needs between 8 mg and 18 mg of iron each day to stay healthy, the Office of Dietary Supplements reports. An iron deficiency -- also called iron-deficiency anemia -- may occur due to normal changes in your body, stomach problems, excessive blood loss or a poor diet. Talk with your medical provider if you develop any of the signs and symptoms of an iron deficiency.
Weakness and Fatigue
Weakness and fatigue are the most common symptoms associated with low iron levels. Inadequate iron levels prevent your body from generating an appropriate amount of red blood cells -- the immune cells that provide oxygen and remove toxins from your body. Without oxygen, your cells can't produce the energy your body needs to function normally. Poor energy levels may lead to unusual weakness or excessive fatigue. These symptoms may develop slowly over time, making them difficult to detect. You may notice that it becomes more difficult for you to remain alert during the day or you may still feel tired after getting a full night's rest. Seek additional care from your medical provider if these symptoms persist or significantly interfere with your ability to function normally during the day.
Breathing Problems, Headache or Dizziness
You may experience breathing problems, as a symptom of iron-deficiency anemia. A low red blood cell count means that your body may also be low in oxygen. In an attempt to pull more oxygen into your body, you may begin to breathe more rapidly. An increased breathing rate may cause shortness of breath or may make it difficult for you to perform certain physical activities, such as climbing a flight of stairs. If your brain doesn't receive enough oxygen due to low iron levels, you may develop a severe or recurrent headache accompanied by sensations of dizziness. Talk with your physician if any of these side effects become severe or do not subside.
Cold Extremities or Nail Changes
When your blood oxygen levels are low, your body diverts any available oxygen to your vital organs, such as your heart, kidneys or liver. Consequently, the parts of your body farthest from your heart -- your hands and feet -- receive less blood. Poor blood flow to your extremities may cause your hands and feel to appear pale or unusually cold to the touch, MayoClinic.com explains. Over time, low iron levels may also lead to brittle or discolored nails.
Increased Heart Rate
Your heart rate may increase if you have low iron levels, a symptom referred to as tachycardia, the University of Maryland Medical Center explains. An elevated heart rate occurs because your heart is trying to compensate for low blood oxygen levels by pushing blood through your body more quickly. In the absence of appropriate treatment, heart problems related an iron deficiency may cause angina or chest pain. Seek emergency medical care if you experience sudden or severe chest pain, as this symptom of an iron deficiency may also be a sign of a heart attack.
Irritability or Poor Appetite
If your child has low iron levels, you may notice that she has a poor appetite or is uninterested in eating her favorite snack or meal. An iron deficiency may also cause mood-related changes, such as irritability or confusion. If these symptoms persist, consult your doctor for further evaluation and care.
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