Iron-deficiency anemia is a condition that is caused by a low level of iron in the blood. This can be caused by poor iron absorption, iron deficiency or blood loss. Women with heavy menstrual cycles may experience iron deficiency regularly, due to the heavy blood loss. Mild cases of anemia may have no symptoms at all, while some people may experience weakness and pallor. However, in more advanced cases, complications may arise.
Heart Problems
Some people with iron-deficiency anemia may develop rapid heartbeats. This is due to the heart having to push more blood through to make up for the lack of oxygen in the blood, which lacks iron.
In addition to an irregular heartbeat, some people may also experience chest pain around their heart. People who have coronary artery disease may experience this pain if they are iron deficient, due to this rushing of blood through the heart through already narrowed arteries.
Pregnancy Complications
During pregnancy your body is in more demand for iron, since it is being distributed to the growing baby. Doctors usually recommend pregnant women to take prenatal vitamins, which contain a high amount of iron to prevent iron deficiency to the baby or mother. However, women who do not receive proper prenatal care and develop severe iron-deficiency anemia may give birth prematurely or give birth to babies with low birth weights, according to MayoClinic.com.
Developmental Problems
Children also need iron in their diets to avoid iron-deficiency anemia. This condition in children may not yield any symptoms, but if the anemia is severe it can cause physical and mental developmental problems in infants and delayed growth in children. They may also develop more infections due to the iron deficiency.
Blood Transfusion
If the iron deficiency is so severe and blood loss is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. Having a blood transfusion will replace iron levels quickly and is usually only needed in severe cases.
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