10 Symptoms of Iron Deficiency You Shouldn’t Ignore

Often, the initial symptoms are mild and can be attributed to fatigue or stress, which is why this issue is frequently overlooked. However, if ignored for too long, iron deficiency can lead to more serious problems, such as chronic fatigue, difficulty breathing, and heart issues. Iron is an essential mineral for our body. It plays a crucial role in producing hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. When iron levels are low, the body produces less hemoglobin, reducing the oxygen supply to various organs. In other words, without adequate iron, the body cannot deliver oxygen effectively to tissues, resulting in fatigue, weakness, and other health problems. Iron is also involved in vital processes such as energy production, brain function, and strengthening the immune system. Blood Tests to Take Annually for Health Monitoring 1. Persistent Fatigue and Weakness One of the most common symptoms of iron deficiency is chronic fatigue. If you constantly feel tired, even after a good night’s sleep, it could indicate low iron levels. Fatigue occurs because of the reduced ability of blood to carry oxygen, making it difficult to maintain the energy needed for daily activities. 2. Pale Skin and Pale Inner Eyelids Another typical sign of iron deficiency is pale skin. This happens because, without enough iron, the body cannot produce sufficient hemoglobin to give the skin its healthy color. A quick test to check for paleness is to look at your inner eyelids. When you pull down the lower eyelid, it should appear red. If it looks pale or yellowish, it could indicate iron deficiency. 3. Shortness of Breath If climbing stairs or taking a short walk makes you feel like you’ve run a marathon, you might have an iron deficiency. When the body lacks iron, oxygen isn’t delivered efficiently, forcing the heart to work harder. As a result, even light efforts can leave you short of breath. 4. Heart Palpitations Another potential sign of iron deficiency is the sensation of rapid or irregular heartbeats, known as palpitations. When iron levels are low, the heart works harder to pump blood and distribute oxygen to tissues, which can cause an irregular or faster heartbeat—a concerning health issue. 5. Headaches and Dizziness Frequent headaches can also indicate iron deficiency. Low iron levels reduce oxygen delivery to the brain, causing pain and dizziness. If you often feel lightheaded or experience migraines without an obvious cause, iron deficiency might be the issue. 6. Brittle Nails Fragile nails that break easily are another sign of iron deficiency. This happens because iron is essential for producing keratin, the protein that makes up nails. If your diet lacks iron, your nails may become brittle and prone to breaking. 7. Cold Hands and Feet A lesser-known symptom is cold hands and feet, even when the room temperature isn’t particularly low. Iron deficiency can impair blood circulation, leading to reduced blood flow to the extremities. If you notice that your hands and feet are often cold, even in mild weather, it’s worth checking your iron levels. 8. Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) Iron deficiency is also linked to Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), a condition that causes tingling or itching sensations in the legs, particularly at night. These symptoms can be very disruptive and interfere with sleep. Experts suggest that iron deficiency may contribute to this condition. If you suffer from RLS, it could be helpful to check your iron levels. 9. Sore and Swollen Tongue, Mouth Sores Iron deficiency can also lead to issues with the tongue and mouth, such as swelling, pain, or unusual discoloration of the tongue. Other signs include cracks at the corners of the mouth, which clearly indicate that your body needs iron to maintain healthy mucous membranes. 10. Cravings for Non-Food Substances A lesser-known symptom of iron deficiency is cravings for non-food substances such as ice, clay, or dirt. This phenomenon occurs when the body attempts to compensate for the deficiency by consuming non-nutritive materials. Although rare, if you notice unusual cravings for non-food substances, it’s crucial to consult a doctor. This article first appeared on Grazia – Author: Miriam Tagini Walnuts or Almonds: Which is Better Health? What Happens When You Don’t Eat Enough Carbs? Toxic Coworkers: How to Manage Harmful Dynamics 4 Minutes of Daily Intense Exercise Boosts Longevity Why Choose a Savory Breakfast Over Sweet? What Is the Best Sleeping Position?

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