Anemia, Iron Deficiency Anemia
Having too little hemoglobin is called anemia. Iron is a mineral needed by our bodies to make many enzymes and used in many cell functions. Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency and the leading cause of anemia in the United States.
The terms anemia, iron deficiency, and iron deficiency anemia often are used interchangeably. Iron deficiency ranges from depleted iron stores without functional or health impairment to iron deficiency with anemia, which affects the functioning of several organ systems.
Iron deficiency has many causes that fall into two main categories: (1) Increased iron needs, and (2) Decreased iron intake or absorption (not enough iron taken into the body).
Those most at risk for Iron Deficiency Anemia are young children and pregnant women (because of rapid growth and higher iron needs), adolescent girls and women of childbearing age (due to menstruation). Among children iron deficiency is seen most often between six months and three years of age due to rapid growth and inadequate intake of dietary iron.
Too little iron can impair body functions, but most physical signs and symptoms do not show up unless iron deficiency anemia occurs. Someone with early stages of iron deficiency may have no signs or symptoms. This is why it is important to screen for too little iron among high risk groups.
Signs of iron deficiency anemia include, feeling tired and weak, decreased work and school performance, slow cognitive and social development during childhood, difficulty maintaining body temperature, decreased immune function, (which increases the chance of infection), Glossitis (an inflamed tongue).
Your doctor or healthcare provider will do blood tests to screen for iron deficiency. No single test is used to diagnose iron deficiency. If you are found to have an iron deficiency, it is important to see your healthcare provider for treatment. Again, it is important to be diagnosed by your healthcare provider because iron deficiency can have causes that aren't related to your diet. Your healthcare provider's recommendations will be specific to your needs.