How Iron Deficiency Anemia is Identified and Diagnosed

Iron deficiency anemia, or a condition where the body does not have enough iron, can lead to several different issues, from improper oxygen absorption to issues with women during pregnancy and more. But because its symptoms are often mild or even unnoticeable when it first begins taking place, properly identifying and diagnosing this condition is an important pursuit for both patients and doctors alike.

At Pharmics Inc., we're proud to offer high-quality iron supplements for anyone dealing with iron deficiency anemia or similar issues of low iron levels, and also tips and assistance for those in this position. If you're unsure whether you might be dealing with iron deficiency anemia and want to find out for sure, here's a primer on some of the most common symptoms associated with the condition, plus how you and your doctor can work together to determine whether a diagnosis is prudent.

Common Iron Deficiency Anemia Symptoms

As we noted above, this condition often develops quite slowly. You may not have any symptoms, or they may be extremely mild to begin with. However, with time, you will likely notice some of these symptoms:

• Fatigue or weakness (two of the most common)
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Pale skin
• Irritability or mood swings
• Low body temperature
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath or chest pain, especially while performing physical activity
• Brittle nails
• Pica (an unusual craving for ice, cold drinks or certain other non-food items -- this often signals a severe case)

If you are dealing with more than one of these symptoms and there's no other simple explanation, it's time to see your doctor and look into whether you may be dealing with iron deficiency anemia.

Diagnosing Iron Deficiency Anemia

During your visit with your doctor, the following may take place:

• Your doctor will ask you important questions about your health history. These may include whether you have a family history of low iron levels or blood disorders, how regular or heavy your menstrual periods are (for women), and a few other personal questions. Your doctor will also take a blood sample and check your hemoglobin levels.
• A physical exam will also often be performed, allowing the doctor to look for any symptoms you may have related to the condition.
• Your doctor will also ask you about things like your diet, any medications you take, your lifestyle, etc. to help determine whether you may be at risk for iron deficiency anemia or some other issues that could be causing the symptoms you are experiencing.

Using all the information they've collected, your doctor will be able to determine not only whether you have iron deficiency anemia, but also your best course of treatment if you do. This treatment may include everything from dietary changes to a recommendation to begin taking iron supplements.

For more on how iron deficiency anemia is identified and diagnosed, or to learn about how our iron supplements benefit numerous people with low iron levels, 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.