Iron Deficiency Anemia

What is iron deficiency anemia?

Iron deficiency anemia is a lack of iron in the blood. Iron is a mineral the body needs to make hemoglobin, which is a part of red blood cells. Hemoglobin helps your blood carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of your body. Your bone marrow also needs iron in order to make healthy red blood cells.

What causes iron deficiency anemia?

Iron deficiency anemia can occur when you lose blood. This could be a large amount quickly, or a small amount each day. Women, young children, and older adults are more likely to have iron deficiency anemia. The following can increase your risk of iron deficiency anemia:

• Blood loss: This can include a woman's monthly period, donating blood more than 5 times a year, and a gastrointestinal bleed.
  
  
• Lack of iron from food: You can develop anemia if you do not eat enough foods that are high in iron, such as meat. Iron is absorbed through your intestines. Your body may not be able to absorb the iron you do eat if you have a condition that affects your intestines. Surgery to remove part of the stomach may also cause problems with absorbing iron from food.
  
  
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: You can deplete the iron in your system if you have to provide iron to yourself and your baby.

What are the signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anemia?

You may have no symptoms, or any of the following:

• You feel more tired or weak, or have a headache.
  
  
• Your skin is pale, or your hands and feet are cold.
  
  
• You are short of breath when you exercise.
  
  
• Your tongue and mouth are sore or inflamed.
  
  
• Your nails are brittle or break easily.
  
  
• Your heart feels like it is beating faster than usual, or you may feel dizzy.
  
  
• Your child grows more slowly than is normal for his age. He cannot concentrate or focus.
  
  
• You want to eat ice, paint, starch, or dirt. This is a condition called pica.

How is iron deficiency anemia diagnosed?

Caregivers may do the following tests to learn the cause of your anemia and to plan your treatment:

• Blood tests: Tests can show how much iron is in your blood or how your body is using the iron.
  
  
• Bowel movement sample: A sample of your bowel movement may be taken to the lab for tests. Caregivers may test it for blood.
  
  
• Colonoscopy: A scope (thin tube with a light and camera on the end) is put into your anus. The scope is then moved forward into your colon to check for bleeding in your colon.
  
  
• Endoscopy: A scope is put into your mouth. The scope is then moved down into your stomach to check for bleeding in your esophagus or stomach.

How is iron deficiency anemia treated?

Your caregiver may need to treat the underlying cause of your iron deficiency anemia. You may need any of the following:

• Medicines:
  
  
  • Iron supplements: You may not need a doctor's order for iron supplements. Take your iron supplements on an empty stomach if possible. The iron is absorbed better when your stomach is empty. Vitamin C helps your body absorb the iron. Take your iron pills with a vitamin C supplement or a glass of orange juice. You may take iron pills with a small amount of food if they upset your stomach. Iron pills can cause constipation. They can also cause your bowel movements to be black. Ask your caregiver what iron supplements are best for you.
    
    
  • Stool softeners: This medicine makes it easier for you to have a bowel movement. You may need this medicine to treat or prevent constipation.
    
    
  • Hematopoietic growth factors: Hematopoietic growth factors, or HGFs, are medicines that help your body make more blood cells. These are used if your anemia is caused by kidney failure or cancer.
  
  
• Blood transfusion: You may need a blood transfusion if your anemia is severe. This will help replace the blood and iron you have lost.

How can I manage my iron deficiency anemia?

• Eat iron-rich foods: Iron-rich foods include nuts, eggs, dark leafy green vegetables, and beans. You may need to meet with a dietician to create the right food plan for you. Ask your caregiver for more information on an iron-rich diet.
  
  
• Drink liquids as directed: Ask what amount is best for you. For most people, good liquids to drink are water, juice, and milk.

When should I contact my caregiver?

Contact your caregiver if:

• You have heartburn, constipation, or diarrhea.
  
  
• You have nausea or vomiting.
  
  
• You are dizzy or very tired.
  
  
• You have trouble swallowing because of the pain in your mouth and throat.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

When should I seek immediate care?

Seek care immediately or call 911 if:

• You have shortness of breath, even when you rest.
  
  
• You have blood in your bowel movement or vomit.
  
  
• You are too dizzy to stand up.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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