Iron deficiency

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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

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