Iron Deficiency

What is Iron Deficiency?

Deficiency of iron is a condition that is characterized by lack of sufficient iron in your body to make healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin. The lack of enough iron causes your tissues and organs to lack proper oxygen and this may cause one to become so tired, feel weak, and slow down the speed of some bodily activities.

Common Symptoms

Iron deficiency often develops gradually. You may notice:

• Tiredness or feeling weak
• Pale skin or pale inner eyelids
• Hair loss or brittle hair
• Thin, spoon-shaped, or ridged nails
• Shortness of breath during mild activity
• Craving non-food items like ice or clay (pica)
• Cold hands and feet
• In children: poor growth, learning delays, irritability
• In pregnant women: increased fatigue and risk to mother and baby

Causes

Several factors can lead to iron deficiency:

• Poor diet low in iron-rich foods (red meat, leafy greens, beans, fortified cereals)
• Blood loss from heavy periods, ulcers, hemorrhoids, or other sources
• Malabsorption issues (celiac disease, gastric bypass surgery)
• Higher iron demands (growth spurts in children, teenage years, pregnancy)
• Chronic illnesses (kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease)

Treatment Options for Iron Deficiency in Katy

Treatment includes dietary changes, supplements, and medical care:

• Iron-dense diet: Lean red meats, beans, lentils, and dark greens should be added to the diet together with a vitamin C source (such as citrus fruits or bell peppers) to increase absorption.
• Oral iron supplements: Ferrous gluconate, ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate, or other formulations are taken daily to replace iron stores.
• IV iron therapy: This is used when patients have very low ferritin levels, severe anemia, or cannot absorb iron orally.
• Follow-up blood tests: Progress is monitored regularly through follow-ups measuring hemoglobin, ferritin, and transferrin saturation.
• Timing of administration and management of side effects: Iron should be taken on an empty stomach or with vitamin C; in case of gastrointestinal disturbances, lower doses, different formulations, or taking iron after a small meal may be recommended.
• Treatment of underlying causes: Assess and manage sources of blood loss (such as menstrual bleeding or gastrointestinal lesions) or absorption issues (like celiac disease or bariatric surgery).