Diseases
iron deficiency anemia
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Iron deficiency anemia is a common type of anemia — a condition in which blood lacks adequate healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body's tissues. As the name implies, iron deficiency anemia is due to insufficient iron.
Symptoms
- extreme fatigue
- weakness
- pale skin
- headache, dizziness or lightheadedness
- chest pain, fast heartbeat or shortness of breath
Causes
- blood loss.
- a lack of iron in your diet
- an inability to absorb iron
Risk factors
- being a female
- infants and children
- vegetarians
Diagnosis
- red blood cell size and color.
- hematocrit
- hemoglobin
- ferritin
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is iron deficiency anemia?
Iron deficiency anemia is a common type of anemia — a condition in which blood lacks adequate healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body's tissues. As the name implies, iron deficiency anemia is due to insufficient iron.
What are the symptoms of iron deficiency anemia?
extreme fatigue, weakness, pale skin, headache, dizziness or lightheadedness, chest pain, fast heartbeat or shortness of breath
What causes iron deficiency anemia?
blood loss.; a lack of iron in your diet; an inability to absorb iron
Which medicines are used for iron deficiency anemia?
carbonyl iron, ferrous fumarate, ferrous gluconate, ferrous sulfate, iron, iron sucrose, lactoferrin
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