Health topic · Nutrition
Iron deficiency and anaemia
Iron deficiency is a common cause of anaemia and tiredness. Learn how it is tested, who is most at risk and why the cause should always be found.
Written by LON6EVITY Editorial Team · Last updated
Overview
The WHO describes anaemia as a condition in which the number of red blood cells or haemoglobin is lower than normal, and notes iron deficiency is one of its most common causes.
Symptoms
The NHS lists tiredness, lack of energy, shortness of breath and pale skin among common symptoms, though some people have none.
How it is tested
A full blood count checks haemoglobin, and ferritin reflects iron stores. Ferritin can be raised by inflammation, so results are interpreted together.
Why the cause matters
The NHS advises that the reason for iron deficiency, such as heavy periods, diet or blood loss from the gut, should be investigated rather than just treated.
Factors that can affect the result
- Heavy periods
- Pregnancy
- Low dietary iron
- Blood loss
- Some digestive conditions
Questions people commonly ask
- Should I take iron supplements without a test?
- It is best to check levels and the cause with a clinician first, as too much iron can be harmful.
Related biomarkers
Related tests
Understand your biomarkers in context
What does this mean for your own health data? Log your results, follow trends over time and bring an organised summary to your next doctor's appointment.
Sources
- Anaemia fact sheet. WHO.
- Iron deficiency anaemia. NHS.