Low Iron Levels - Symptoms, Effects, and Management

Low iron levels indicate a deficiency of iron in the body, which can lead to symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, and reduced energy levels.

Low Iron Levels FAQ

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What causes low iron levels?

Low iron levels can be caused by a few different things, including: You can develop iron deficiency if you don't eat enough iron-containing foods or if you have trouble absorbing iron. Vegetarians and vegans may be more prone to iron deficiency, especially premenopausal females.

What happens if you have a low iron level?

Every organ and tissue in your body needs oxygen to work. Without enough oxygen in your blood, you may feel tired, weak, and short of breath. You get iron deficiency anemia when your body is low in iron. You need iron to make hemoglobin, a protein that helps your red blood cells carry oxygen. Your doctor will find out why your iron is low.

What is a normal hematocrit level for iron deficiency anemia?

Red blood cell size and color. With iron deficiency anemia, red blood cells are smaller and paler in color than normal. Hematocrit. This is the percentage of your blood volume made up by red blood cells. Normal levels are generally between 35.5 and 44.9 percent for adult women and 38.3 to 48.6 percent for adult men.

What does a low iron level mean?

The British Society of Gastroenterology defines anaemia as a Hb concentration below the lower limit of normal for the relevant population, with a laboratory performing the test. A serum ferritin level of less than 30 micrograms/L confirms iron deficiency.

What happens if iron deficiency is diagnosed?

The peripheral smear or blood slide may show small, oval-shaped cells with pale centers. In severe iron deficiency, the white blood count (WBC) may be low and the platelet count may be high or low. What Other Tests Will Be Done If Iron Deficiency Is Diagnosed? Your doctor will decide if other tests are necessary.