3 Stages of Iron Deficiency

There are a number of medical issues or conditions that tend to progress in stages of severity, and issues of iron deficiency in the body are a common example. Generally speaking, there are three stages that the body may progress through when it comes to iron deficiency, with the speed of progress depending on several individual factors.

At Pharmics Inc., we're happy to offer the very best OTC iron supplement pills and liquid formats you'll find on the market today, assisting many people with iron deficiency issues. We also help our clients understand the full ins and outs of iron deficiency and even certain anemia issues. Here are some basics on the three simple stages of iron deficiency, including the most severe stage of anemia onset.

Progressive Iron Depletion

In the first stage of  iron deficiency, the body experiences progressive depletion of iron stores. This may be due to a lack of dietary intake or increased demand for iron, which can occur during pregnancy or periods of rapid growth.

As this stage progresses, the body begins to use up its reserves of stored iron, leading to lower levels in the blood. This is to account for decreasing hemoglobin that's present. Once these stores are gone, there will still typically be enough iron in the body from its "labile" iron pool to continue with standard red blood cell formation - but people in this stage will often experience fatigue or decreased exercise tolerance.

Further Iron Loss

If the condition is not addressed at this point, further iron loss can occur at an even faster rate, leading to a more serious case of iron deficiency.  This may be due to continued low dietary intake or increased demand for iron.

This stage is somewhat common for menstruating women who have low iron reserves, plus some other people. It can lead to low levels of ferritin and serum iron, increased levels of transferrin, and lower levels of transferrin saturation.

Anemia Onset

Finally, if iron deficiency continues to progress, the body will enter the most severe stage - anemia onset. At this point, there is not enough iron in the body to support proper red blood cell formation or function. Symptoms of anemia set in, such as pale skin, fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. It's important to address iron deficiency before reaching this stage as it can have serious consequences for overall health.

Luckily, proper iron supplementation is one of several approaches that can help prevent or treat iron deficiency anemia. Consult with your healthcare provider for more information on how to best manage your iron levels and stay healthy. Don't wait until it's too late - take action now to maintain optimal iron levels in your body!

At  Pharmics Inc., we are committed to providing top-quality iron supplements and supporting our customers in their journey towards better health. Contact us today to learn more about our products and how we can help you on your path towards optimal iron levels.