Iron is an essential nutrient in the body, and one with important responsibilities. Its most noted role is in the production of hemoglobin, which helps form clots when blood vessels burst. Individuals who suffer from a low level of iron in the blood are usually diagnosed with anemia, a minor condition often remedied with lifestyle changes or simple medical treatments. Failure to address the issue could lead to more complicated medical problems.
Iron-deficiency Anemia
Iron-deficiency anemia can result from several factors or a combination of multiple influences. Diets low in iron will fail to provide adequate iron to the body. Bodily changes could also disrupt red blood cell production, and gastrointestinal abnormalities or conditions may reduce the body's ability to absorb iron into the body. Blood loss due to injury could also use up the blood's iron and cause temporary anemia. Symptoms of anemia include irritability, fatigue, a racing heart and a sore or swollen tongue. You may also notice paleness in your skin.
Blood-clotting Risk
Some people with low iron levels experience excessive bleeding when they cut the surface of the skin, or easy bruising of the skin. This is due to low iron levels that restrict the amount of hemoglobin in your bloodstream. Broken blood vessels require more time to be clotted naturally because of the lack of hemoglobin.
Fixing Your Iron Levels
Most anemics are able to control their blood iron levels by being more aware of their diet. This includes eating foods that are high in iron, such as meat. More significant cases of anemia can benefit from iron supplements taken daily to boost iron in your bloodstream. Your doctor can provide you with a list of foods high in iron that can supplement your diet and improve your iron levels.
Considerations
If you suspect that you are suffering from low iron in your blood, contact a doctor. Symptoms of other conditions could be mistaken for anemia, causing you to treat the wrong condition. Call a doctor immediately if a person with anemia faints or is unconscious. You should also be aware that anemia is different from hemophilia, which is marked by the body's inability to form blood clots on its own -- this condition is not related to iron levels and requires its own course of treatment.
