Which Disease is Caused Due to Deficiency of Iron?
September 14, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Iron deficiency can lead to a condition called “iron deficiency anemia.” Iron deficiency anemia is a common type of anemia characterized by a shortage of red blood cells in the body due to insufficient iron. Iron is a crucial component of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that helps transport oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. When the body lacks adequate iron, it cannot produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to anemia.
Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia can include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Pale skin and mucous membranes (e.g., inside the mouth)
- Shortness of breath
- Cold hands and feet
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headache
- Brittle nails
- Craving for non-food substances like ice or dirt (a condition known as pica)
- Restless leg syndrome
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (in severe cases)
Iron deficiency anemia can occur for various reasons, including inadequate dietary iron intake, poor iron absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, chronic blood loss (e.g., due to gastrointestinal bleeding or heavy menstruation), or increased iron requirements (e.g., during pregnancy). It’s important to identify and treat the underlying cause of the iron deficiency to prevent further complications and to replenish iron levels through dietary changes or iron supplements as recommended by a healthcare provider.