Signs of iron deficiency: How to recognize them?

Excessive fatigue

One of the first and most frequent signs of iron deficiency is fatigue. Without enough iron, your body doesn't produce enough hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in the blood. The result? Less oxygen reaches your muscles and tissues, resulting in constant fatigue, even after a good night's sleep.

Pale complexion

Lack of hemoglobin can also make the skin paler than usual. This is because hemoglobin gives blood its red color, and when you have less of it, blood flow to the skin is reduced. If you notice unusual pallor, particularly around the face, gums or inside the eyelids, this may be a sign of iron deficiency.

Shortness of breath

Without sufficient iron, the body has difficulty transporting oxygen to muscles and organs. This can lead to breathing difficulties, even during simple activities such as walking or climbing stairs. If you become short of breath easily during activities that used to be no problem, it may be time to consult a doctor.

Heart palpitations

Iron deficiency can also affect heart function. When the body lacks oxygen, the heart has to work harder to pump blood. This can lead to irregular heartbeats, also known as palpitations. If you experience frequent palpitations or chest pain, this could be a sign that you're iron deficient.

Hair loss

Hair loss can also be linked to iron deficiency. When the body lacks iron, it prioritizes sending oxygen to vital organs rather than to the hair, which can lead to diffuse hair loss. If you notice unusual hair loss, it could indicate anemia.

Restless legs syndrome

Some people with iron deficiency experience unpleasant sensations in their legs and an irresistible urge to move them, especially at night. This phenomenon is known as restless legs syndrome and can interfere with sleep quality.

Inflammation or pain in the tongue

Another common sign of iron deficiency is an inflamed or sore tongue. This condition, called glossitis, can make the tongue smooth and swollen, and sometimes cause gum pain. You may also notice cracks in the corners of your mouth.

How can iron deficiency be prevented?

The best way to prevent iron deficiency is to eat a diet rich in iron-containing foods. Here are some sources of iron to include in your diet:

Animal sources: red meat, liver, fish, poultry.

Plant sources: spinach, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, quinoa, nuts.

It's also a good idea to eat foods rich in vitamin C (such as citrus fruits and peppers) with iron-rich foods, as this vitamin improves iron absorption.

When should you see a doctor?

If you experience more than one of these symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional. A simple blood test can determine whether you're suffering from iron deficiency, and the doctor will be able to direct you towards appropriate treatment.

In short, keeping an eye out for these signs can help you detect iron deficiency early and remedy it before it leads to more serious complications. So, if you're feeling tired, pale or short of breath for no apparent reason, don't let these symptoms go unanswered, and consult a doctor to take stock of your iron levels.

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