Iron Deficiency Anemia
How Common is Iron Deficiency Anemia?
Iron Deficiency Anemia is very common around the world, especially in India. It affects many children and women. Studies show that about 30-50% of people in India, especially women, have anemia at some point in their lives. Many people don’t realize they have it until their symptoms become worse.
What Causes Iron Deficiency Anemia?
Not Eating Enough Iron
Foods like leafy greens, beans, and red meat have iron, and if you don’t eat enough of these, you can become iron-deficient.
Blood Loss
Losing a lot of blood through periods, surgery, or injury can cause anemia.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women need more iron to support both their bodies and the growing baby.
Internal Bleeding
Sometimes bleeding inside your body, like from an ulcer, can cause anemia.
Stages of Iron Deficiency Anemia
First Stage
Your body’s iron stores get low, but you may not have any symptoms yet.
Second Stage
Your body starts making fewer red blood cells because there isn’t enough iron.
Third Stage
By this stage, you start feeling tired, and weak, and may get dizzy, as your body doesn’t have enough red blood cells.
Weird Signs of Iron Deficiency Anemia
Craving Non-Food Items
Some people with anemia crave to eat things like dirt or ice. This is called pica.
Feeling Cold
People with anemia often feel cold, even when it's warm.
Restless Legs
You may feel like you need to move your legs all the time, especially at night.
How is Iron Deficiency Anemia Diagnosed?
Doctors use a blood test called a Complete Blood Count (CBC) to check your hemoglobin and red blood cell levels. Sometimes, they may check how much iron is stored in your body using a serum ferritin test. In rare cases, a bone marrow biopsy may be done. If you’re in Indore, visiting Dr Akshay Lahoti, a hematologist doctor at Palasia, can help get the right tests done.
How is Iron Deficiency Anemia Treated?
- Iron Supplements:- These are pills you take to add more iron to your body. They help your body to make more red blood cells.
- Eating Iron-Rich Foods:- Foods like spinach, meat, and beans can help raise your iron levels.
- Iron Through an IV:- Foods like spinach, meat, and beans can help raise your iron levels.
- Blood Transfusions:- In very serious cases, doctors might give you a blood transfusion to quickly increase your red blood cell count.
Dr Akshay Lahoti, a blood cancer doctor in Indore, ensures that patients get the best treatment and recover quickly.
How Fast Can You Recover from Iron Deficiency Anemia?
Most people can recover in a few months if they follow their treatment plan. Eating a healthy diet and taking supplements will help you feel better faster. Regular check-ups with your doctor are important to ensure your iron levels stay normal. Dr. Akshay Lahoti has successfully treated many patients at Medicare Hospital and can guide you to a full recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common symptoms include tiredness, weakness, pale skin, dizziness, shortness of breath, and unusual cravings (like dirt or ice).
Women, especially during menstruation or pregnancy, and young children are at higher risk. People with a poor diet or those who lose blood due to injury or illness are also at risk.
Doctors diagnose it through blood tests, such as a Complete Blood Count (CBC) and serum ferritin test, to check hemoglobin levels and iron stores in the body.
Foods rich in iron include red meat, beans, lentils, spinach, tofu, and fortified cereals. Vitamin C-rich foods like oranges and strawberries can help your body absorb iron better.
If you experience symptoms like extreme tiredness, weakness, or pale skin, it’s important to see a doctor for a proper evaluation and potential testing for Iron Deficiency Anemia.