Reviewed By Yi-Bin Chen MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. …Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.more »
Definition
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues. There are many types of anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is a decrease in the number of red cells in the blood caused by too little iron.
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of anemia. About 20% of women, 50% of pregnant women, and 3% of men do not have enough iron in their body.
Iron is a key part of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in the blood. Your body normally gets iron through diet and by recycling iron from old red blood cells. Without iron, the blood cannot carry oxygen effectively. Oxygen is needed for every cell in the body to function normally.
Anemia develops slowly after the normal iron stores in the body and bone marrow have run out. In general, women have smaller stores of iron than men because they lose more through menstruation. They are at higher risk for anemia than men.
The cause of the iron deficiency must be found, especially in older patients who face the greatest risk for gastrointestinal cancers.
Iron supplements (ferrous sulfate) are available. For the best iron absorption, take these supplements with an empty stomach. However, many people cannot tolerate this and may need to take the supplements with food.
Patients who cannot tolerate iron by mouth can take it through a vein (intravenous) or by an injection into the muscle.
Milk and antacids may interfere with the absorption of iron and should not be taken at the same time as iron supplements. Vitamin C can increase absorption and is essential in the production of hemoglobin.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women will need to take extra iron because their normal diet usually will not provide the required amount.
The hematocrit should return to normal after 2 months of iron therapy. However, iron should be continued for another 6 - 12 months to replenish the body's iron stores in the bone marrow.
Iron-rich foods include:
Eggs (yolk)
Fish
Legumes (peas and beans)
Meats (liver is the highest source)
Poultry
Raisins
Whole-grain bread
Expectations (prognosis)
With treatment, the outcome is likely to be good. Usually, blood counts will return to normal in 2 months.
Complications
There are usually no complications. However, iron deficiency anemia may come back. Get regular follow-ups with your health care provider.
Children with this disorder may be more likely to get infections.
Calling your health care provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if:
Everyone's diet should include enough iron. Red meat, liver, and egg yolks are important sources of iron. Flour, bread, and some cereals are fortified with iron. If you aren't getting enough iron in your diet (uncommon in the United States), take iron supplements.
During periods when you need extra iron (such as pregnancy and breastfeeding), increase the amount of iron in your diet or take iron supplements.
References
Brotanek JM, Gosz J, Weitzman M, Flores G. Iron deficiency in early childhood in the United States: risk factors and racial/ethnic disparities. Pediatrics. 2007;120(3):568-575.
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