Low iron in the blood causes mild initial effects, but over time these may become severe if left untreated. If you have signs of low iron or iron deficiency anemia, your doctor may prescribe iron supplements. These pills are very effective in relieving the symptoms of iron deficiency. They work by restoring the levels of functional red blood cells in your body.
Role of Iron
The red blood cells carry oxygen molecules from the lungs and deliver them to tissues and cells throughout the body. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that actually binds and carries the oxygen molecules. At the center of the hemoglobin structure, an iron atom resides at the site where the oxygen molecules attach to the protein.
Health Effects
Without sufficient iron, cells throughout the body become deprived of oxygen-rich blood. This causes extreme fatigue and weakness as well as irritability, shortness of breath, headache and dizziness. If you have low iron, you may have trouble staying warm and your hands and feet may feel especially chilled. Pale skin and brittle nails are other common side effects. These symptoms are relieved by the supplemental iron that iron pills provide.
Serious Conditions
When you have low iron and low oxygen levels in your blood, your heart begins to work harder in an attempt to compensate. This may cause an irregular heartbeat, also known as arrhythmia, heart murmur, an enlarged heart, or even heart failure. It is very important to treat iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia to avoid these serious health consequences.
Taking Iron Supplements
Many people experience unpleasant side effects while taking iron supplements. These may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and constipation. However, you should not discontinue the supplements unless directed to do so by a doctor. You may be able to manage the side effects by changing the time of day that you take the supplements or by taking them with food. A different formulation may be less irritating to your gastrointestinal system. Constipation may be relieved by adding additional high-fiber foods to your diet. Talk to your doctor before making any changes to your regimen of iron supplementation.
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