Iron Deficiency Anaemia

What are the symptoms of iron-deficiency anaemia?

People with iron-deficiency anaemia often experience:

• Feeling unusually tired or weak
• Shortness of breath during everyday activities
• Pale skin
• A fast or irregular heartbeat
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• A headache
• Cold hands and feet
• Cravings for non-food items, like ice or dirt

What causes iron-deficiency anaemia?

Iron-deficiency anaemia can be caused by various factors, including:

• Not getting enough iron from your diet
• Blood loss from menstruation, an injury, or surgery
• Conditions that cause problems with how the body absorbs iron
• Being pregnant, as iron needs increase

How common is iron-deficiency anaemia?

Iron-deficiency anaemia is quite common, especially among certain groups such as:

• Women, particularly those who have heavy periods
• Pregnant women
• Children and teens who are growing rapidly
• People with a poor diet that lacks iron-rich foods

How can I treat iron-deficiency anaemia?

Treatment for iron-deficiency anaemia typically involves:

• Taking iron supplements to increase iron levels
• Eating iron-rich foods such as red meat, beans, and dark leafy greens
• Making dietary changes to improve iron absorption, like consuming vitamin C-rich foods

How to live with iron-deficiency anaemia?

If you have iron-deficiency anaemia, managing your condition may include:

• Following a diet that includes iron-rich foods
• Regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your iron levels
• Taking any prescribed supplements as directed (like ferrous fumarate)
• Listening to your body and resting when you feel tired

Final thoughts

Iron-deficiency anaemia is a common condition that can cause fatigue if left untreated. If you are concerned about your symptoms or think you may have iron-deficiency anaemia, it’s important to speak to your GP or healthcare provider.