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