Dr Rahul Bhargava Haematologist

MBBS, MD, DM (Clinical Haematology)

Principal Director & Chief Hematology at Fortis Hospital

MBBS, MD, DM (Clinical Haematology)

Principal Director & Chief Hematology at Fortis Hospital

Iron deficiency anemia

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :

Foods rich in iron include red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, spinach, and fortified cereals.

Recovery can take several months, depending on the severity of anemia and adherence to treatment.

Yes, consuming a balanced diet with sufficient iron and addressing any underlying conditions can help prevent iron deficiency anemia.

Common side effects include constipation, nausea, and dark stools. Taking supplements with food can help minimize these effects.

If left untreated, iron deficiency anemia can lead to severe health complications, including heart problems and developmental issues in children.

About :- 

Iron deficiency anemia is a common blood disorder characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells due to insufficient iron in the body. Iron is a crucial component of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Without adequate iron, the body cannot produce enough hemoglobin, leading to fatigue, weakness, and other health issues.

Causes of Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron deficiency anemia can occur due to various reasons, including:

  • Inadequate Iron Intake: A diet low in iron-rich foods like meat, beans, and leafy greens.
  • Increased Iron Demand: Pregnancy, growth spurts in children, and heavy menstrual periods increase the body’s need for iron.
  • Chronic Blood Loss: Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, or heavy menstruation can lead to significant iron loss over time.
  • Poor Iron Absorption: Conditions like celiac disease or gastric surgery can impair the body’s ability to absorb iron from food.

Types of Iron Deficiency Anemia

  1. Nutritional Iron Deficiency Anemia: Caused by insufficient dietary iron.
  2. Iron Deficiency Anemia due to Blood Loss: Often related to gastrointestinal issues or menstrual bleeding.
  3. Iron Deficiency Anemia in Pregnancy: Increased iron demand during pregnancy can lead to anemia if not adequately supplemented.

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia

The symptoms of iron deficiency anemia can vary but commonly include:

  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Pale or yellowish skin
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Brittle nails
  • Headaches

Diagnosis of Iron Deficiency Anemia

Diagnosing iron deficiency anemia typically involves:

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures the levels of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the blood.
  • Serum Ferritin Test: Indicates the amount of stored iron in the body.
  • Serum Iron Test: Measures the amount of iron in the blood.
  • Transferrin Saturation: Assesses how much iron is bound to the protein that carries it in the blood.

A healthcare provider like Rahul Bhargava can guide you through these tests and provide a comprehensive evaluation.

Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anemia

The treatment for iron deficiency anemia focuses on increasing your iron levels and addressing the underlying cause:

  • Dietary Changes: Incorporating iron-rich foods like red meat, poultry, fish, lentils, beans, and fortified cereals.
  • Iron Supplements: Oral iron supplements are often prescribed to replenish iron stores.
  • Treating Underlying Causes: If blood loss or absorption issues are causing anemia, treating these conditions is crucial.
  • Intravenous Iron Therapy: In severe cases, intravenous iron may be necessary to quickly restore iron levels.

Cost of Treatment and Stay in India

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