Signs of Iron Deficiency: Breathing, Dizziness, Extremities

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some basics on signs that you might be dealing with low levels of iron. Also called iron deficiency, this condition risks the lowered production of hemoglobin in the body, which in turn limits oxygen transportation and can create several specific health concerns.

At Pharmics Inc., we’re happy to offer several iron supplements for those dealing with iron deficiency issues, including chewable tablets, liquid iron and oral tablets. One of the first and most important steps to dealing with iron deficiency is recognizing symptoms that might indicate its presence, and today’s part two of our series will go over several others to keep in mind here.

Shortness of Breath

As we just noted above, one of the primary risks of iron deficiency is limited oxygen transportation throughout the body. This often leads directly to the lungs not being able to produce enough oxygen for all the body’s needs, and one of the first symptoms that sometimes shows up here is a shortness of breath.

You may notice trouble breathing in several settings, including those where this never would have been the case in the past. Some people with iron deficiency will become out of breath simply by climbing a few stairs, for instance, even if they’re generally in good shape.

Dizziness and Headaches

Another possible result of low iron is dizziness, which will also often come with lightheadedness in some cases. There may also be situations where headaches start cropping up here, usually because not enough oxygen is reaching the brain, which causes blood vessels to swell up.

Now, these are not quite as common as shortness of breath when it comes to iron deficiency signs. If you are only dealing with these symptoms, but none of the others we’ve gone over in this series, it’s possible these are due to something else. However, if you notice these alongside other symptoms we’ve gone over, iron deficiency could be the culprit.

Extremity Coldness

Limited oxygen can also lead to reduced metabolism in extremities like the hands and feet, which in turn drops body temperature. Those with iron deficiency often deal with cold hands or cold feet, or even sometimes a general coolness throughout their entire body.

Restless Leg Syndrome

Finally, some who have iron deficiency may deal with restless leg syndrome, which refers to a tendency to fidget or move around uncontrollably while the legs are resting. Symptoms of restless leg syndrome may include itching or other leg sensations that make it feel as though you must move the leg to make it comfortable, and it often impacts sleep.

For more on common signs that indicate an iron deficiency issues, or to learn about any of our iron supplements or other supplements, speak to the staff at Pharmics Inc. today.

Check with your physician before taking an iron supplement or giving an iron supplement to an infant or any child.

*WARNING: Accidental overdose of iron containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under 6. Keep iron containing products out of the reach of children. In case of accidental overdose, call a doctor or poison control center immediately.

Statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.