Anaemia (Iron Deficiency)
The most common nutritional deficiency worldwide — and one of the easiest to fix once found.
Anaemia means a reduced red-blood-cell count or haemoglobin level, so the body carries less oxygen. Iron deficiency is the most common cause globally — from diet, blood loss, pregnancy, or malabsorption. Treatment addresses both the low iron and the reason it got low in the first place.
Causes & risk factors
- Low dietary iron intake
- Menstrual blood loss, especially heavy periods
- Gastrointestinal blood loss (ulcers, haemorrhoids, bowel cancer)
- Pregnancy and lactation (increased demand)
- Poor absorption (coeliac disease, gastric surgery)
- Chronic kidney disease reducing erythropoietin
Symptoms
- Persistent tiredness, especially on exertion
- Pale skin, nail beds, and inner eyelids
- Breathlessness and a fast heartbeat
- Headache and poor concentration
- Brittle nails and hair loss
- Restless legs, especially at night
How it's diagnosed
- Full blood count (low haemoglobin, low MCV in iron deficiency)
- Ferritin (best marker of iron stores) and transferrin saturation
- Endoscopy/colonoscopy in men and post-menopausal women to find a bleed source
- Coeliac screen when malabsorption is suspected
Evidence-based treatment
- Oral iron supplements — typically 3–6 months to refill stores
- Take with vitamin C; avoid tea/coffee within an hour
- IV iron if oral isn't tolerated or stores need rapid repletion
- Treat the underlying cause — heavy periods, GI bleed, diet
- Transfusion only for severe symptomatic anaemia
Prevention
- Iron-rich diet: red meat, legumes, dark leafy greens, fortified cereals
- Vitamin C with plant-based iron sources
- Manage heavy periods with a doctor
- Screen during pregnancy as per antenatal guidelines
Who treats this?
Related symptoms
Anaemia (Iron Deficiency) — FAQ
How long does it take to recover from iron-deficiency anaemia?
Haemoglobin usually rises within 2–4 weeks of starting iron, but replenishing stores takes 3–6 months of continued treatment.
Is it safe to self-diagnose with iron tablets off the shelf?
Taking iron without a confirmed deficiency can mask more serious causes of fatigue — and iron overload has its own risks. Get a blood test first.
Other conditions
This page is general information, not medical advice for any specific person. For diagnosis and treatment, book a consultation.