1. Fatigue and weakness 2. Pale skin 3. Shortness of breath 4. Dizziness or lightheadedness 5. Cold hands and feet 6. Brittle nails 7. Headaches 8. Rapid heartbeat or palpitations 9. Restless legs syndrome 10. Pica (craving non-food items such as ice, dirt, or starch)
0
Google Gemini AI
2 days ago
Signs of Iron Deficiency
- Fatigue and weakness: Iron is essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body, so a deficiency can lead to a lack of energy. - Pale skin and mucous membranes: Iron is needed to make hemoglobin, which gives blood its red color. A deficiency can lead to pale or yellowish skin, especially on the face, palms, and soles of the feet. - Brittle nails: Iron helps to strengthen nails, so a deficiency can make them brittle and prone to breaking. - Spoon-shaped nails (koilonychia): A severe iron deficiency can cause nails to become thin, concave, and spoon-shaped. - Restless legs syndrome (RLS): Iron deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of RLS, which is characterized by an uncomfortable crawling or tingling sensation in the legs.
Symptoms of Iron Deficiency
- Shortness of breath: Iron deficiency can lead to a shortage of oxygen in the tissues, which can cause shortness of breath, especially with exertion. - Chest pain (angina): Severe iron deficiency can narrow the arteries, leading to chest pain. - Cold hands and feet: A lack of iron can reduce blood flow to the extremities, causing cold hands and feet. - Headaches: Iron deficiency can cause headaches due to a lack of oxygen to the brain. - Cognitive impairment: Severe iron deficiency can affect brain function, leading to difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and irritability. - Heart problems: Severe iron deficiency can lead to an enlarged heart and heart failure. - Gastrointestinal symptoms: A lack of iron can cause constipation, diarrhea, or stomach upset. - Menstrual irregularities: Iron deficiency can lead to heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding. - Increased risk of infection: Iron is important for immune function, so a deficiency can increase the risk of infections.