Iron deficiency
Iron deficiency
Iron deficiency (pronunciation: /ˈaɪərn dɪˈfɪʃənsi/) is a common type of anemia that occurs when the body does not have enough iron to produce adequate amounts of the protein hemoglobin, which is responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood.
Etymology
The term "iron deficiency" is derived from the Latin word "ferrum" for iron, and the Latin "deficientia" meaning lacking or short of.
Causes
Iron deficiency can be caused by a variety of factors, including inadequate dietary intake of iron, increased iron requirements during periods of rapid growth (such as in pregnancy and adolescence), and conditions that cause blood loss (such as menstruation and gastrointestinal bleeding).
Symptoms
Symptoms of iron deficiency can include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, chest pain, dizziness, cold hands and feet, and inflammation or soreness of the tongue.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of iron deficiency typically involves blood tests to measure levels of iron, hemoglobin, and ferritin (a protein that stores iron). Other tests may include an endoscopy or colonoscopy to check for sources of bleeding.
Treatment
Treatment for iron deficiency usually involves increasing dietary intake of iron-rich foods (such as red meat, poultry, and iron-fortified cereals), taking iron supplements, and treating any underlying conditions that are causing the deficiency.
Related terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Iron deficiency
- Wikipedia's article - Iron deficiency
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