Iron Deficiency Anemia
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
What is iron deficiency anemia (IDA)?
IDA means you have low red blood cell and hemoglobin levels. Hemoglobin is part of red blood cells and helps carry oxygen to your body. Iron helps make hemoglobin. IDA is caused by a lack of iron in the blood. Blood loss and not enough iron in the foods you eat are the most common causes of low iron.
What increases my risk for IDA?
- A woman's monthly period
- Donating blood more than 5 times a year
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- A vegan diet
- NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or aspirin
- Trauma or bleeding in your intestines
What are the signs and symptoms of IDA?
- Feeling weak, tired, or irritable
- Pale skin
- Headache, dizziness
- Shortness of breath with activity
- Fast or uneven heartbeat
- Sore or swollen tongue and mouth
- Nails that break easily
- An urge to eat ice, paint, starch, or dirt
How is IDA diagnosed?
- Blood tests will show how much iron is in your blood and how your body uses the iron.
- A bowel movement sample will show any blood in your bowel movement.
- An endoscopy may show bleeding in your esophagus or stomach. An endoscope is a bendable tube with a light and camera on the end. It is put into your esophagus through your mouth and throat.
- A colonoscopy may show bleeding in your intestines. A scope is put into your rectum.
How is IDA treated?
Treatment may take 3 to 6 months. You may need medicines and supplements to increase the amount of iron in your blood. Ask your healthcare provider how much iron you should take each day. A blood transfusion may be needed if your anemia is severe. This will help replace the blood and iron you have lost.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
How can I manage my symptoms?
- Eat foods rich in iron and protein. Nuts, meat, dark leafy green vegetables, and beans are high in iron and protein. Limit milk to 2 cups a day. The calcium in milk can interfere with how your body absorbs iron. Take the iron supplement with food or a drink that is high in vitamin C. This helps your body absorb the iron. You may need to meet with a dietitian to create the right food plan for you.
- Drink liquids as directed. Iron supplements may cause constipation. Liquids help prevent constipation. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.
When should I seek immediate care?
- You have dark or bloody bowel movements.
- You vomit blood.
- You are too dizzy to stand up.
- You have trouble swallowing because of the pain in your mouth and throat.
When should I call my doctor?
- You have heartburn, constipation, or diarrhea.
- You have nausea or are vomiting.
- You are dizzy or very tired.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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 healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. 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.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
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