Iron is a vital mineral in our bodies that can be found in red blood cells. It is involved in the process of producing ATP, which is the body's source for energy, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. Extra iron is stored in the bone marrow, the liver, the spleen and the muscles. Drugs.com states that adult females need 10 to 15 mg of iron a day, while adult males need 10 mg. Much of our diet can supply the iron that we need. However, when you don't get enough iron, it can lead to anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is the second most common cause of anemia in the elderly, states American Family Physician.
Iron Deficiency Anemia
American Family Physician states that iron deficiency anemia is the result of chronic gastrointestinal blood loss, which is caused by anti-inflammatory drug-induced gastritis, ulcer, colon cancer, diverticula or angiodysplasia. Elderly people may become deficient in iron because of inadequate intake or absorption of iron, and anemia can take several years to develop without blood loss.
Typically, the elderly who suffer from iron deficiency anemia will have their digestive tract evaluated as a possible source of the bleeding; in 20 to 40 percent of patients, the source of bleeding can be found in the upper digestive tract from peptic ulcer disease, gastritis, esophagitis or gastric cancer. American Family Physician states that doctors will generally treat the cause of the bleeding and recommend an iron supplement for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia.
Iron Supplement Dosage
American Family Physician states that the usual recommended dosage of iron supplements is 50 to 100 mg three times per day. A smaller dose taken once daily is available and will replace iron stores -- although, at a slower rate than if you were taking the regular dosage. Ultimately, you will need to talk to your doctor to see if an iron supplement is right for you.
Iron Overdose
If you take too much iron, you may experience iron overdose. Some symptoms, according to Medline Plus, include: buildup of fluids in the lungs; black and possibly bloody stools; diarrhea; liver damage; metallic taste in the mouth; nausea; vomiting blood; dehydration; low blood pressure; fast and weak pulse; shock; chills; coma; convulsions; dizziness; drowsiness; fever; headache; bluish-colored fingernails and lips; flushing; and loss of color from the skin. Iron overdose can be fatal, so correct dosage is crucial.
Possible Uses of Iron
Iron supplements may also be useful to boost thinking, learning and memory, which can be of importance in elderly patients. Additionally, Medline Plus states that up to 20 percent of people who have heart failure have low levels of iron; intravenous iron can improve some symptoms of heart failure.
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