Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Iron deficiency anaemia is a medical condition characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells or the amount of haemoglobin in the blood, due to insufficient iron.

Causes

• Blood loss (e.g. heavy menstrual periods, gastrointestinal bleeding, surgery)
• Inadequate dietary intake of iron
• Increased demand for iron (e.g. pregnancy, growth spurts)
• Chronic diseases (e.g. kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis)
• Gastrointestinal disorders (e.g. celiac disease, Crohn's disease)

Symptoms

• Fatigue and weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Pale skin
• Cold hands and feet
• HEADache
• Restless leg syndrome

Diagnosis

Iron deficiency anaemia is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests, including:

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Serum iron level
• Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)
• Ferritin level

Treatment

Treatment for iron deficiency anaemia usually involves:

• Iron supplements (oral or intravenous)
• Dietary changes to increase iron intake
• Treatment of underlying causes of blood loss or iron deficiency
• Vitamin C supplements to enhance iron absorption

Prevention

To prevent iron deficiency anaemia, it is recommended to:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in iron (e.g. red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils)
• Consume vitamin C-rich foods (e.g. citrus fruits, bell peppers) to enhance iron absorption
• Avoid excessive tea or coffee consumption, which can inhibit iron absorption
• Consider iron supplements if you are at risk of deficiency (e.g. pregnant women, individuals with chronic diseases)

Complications

If left untreated, iron deficiency anaemia can lead to:

• Poor pregnancy outcomes (e.g. preterm birth, low birth weight)
• Impaired cognitive function and development in children
• Decreased immune function
• Increased risk of infections and illnesses

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is iron deficiency anaemia?
A condition where the body has low levels of iron, leading to inadequate red blood cell production.

What are the common symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia?
Fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and dizziness.

What causes iron deficiency anaemia?
Inadequate dietary intake, increased requirement, or excessive loss of iron due to various factors.

How is iron deficiency anaemia diagnosed?
Through blood tests, including complete blood count and serum ferritin levels.

Can iron deficiency anaemia be treated with diet alone?
Possibly, with iron-rich foods, but often requires supplementation or other treatments.

What are the best dietary sources of iron?
Red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals.

Are there different types of iron supplements?
Yes, including ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, and ferric citrate.

Can iron deficiency anaemia be prevented?
Possibly, with a balanced diet and adequate iron intake, but may depend on individual factors.

Are certain groups more at risk for iron deficiency anaemia?
Yes, including pregnant women, young children, and individuals with chronic diseases.

How long does it usually take to recover from iron deficiency anaemia?
Typically several months, depending on the severity and treatment efficacy.