How can one diagnose and treat an iron deficiency in the body?
May 9, 2024 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Babette Kleine
Dear doctor,
My name is Lilli Kock and I have been feeling like something is not right with my health for some time now. I am often tired, feel weak, and have trouble concentrating properly. Additionally, I have been experiencing increased hair loss recently. After doing some research online, I have read that these symptoms could indicate a lack of iron in the body.
I would like to know how to diagnose iron deficiency in the body and what treatment options are available. Should I see a doctor and have my blood tested to check my iron levels? Are there other tests that can be done to determine iron deficiency?
I am worried that my body is not getting enough iron and that is causing my symptoms. I would like to know if there are specific foods I should consume more of to increase my iron levels. Or is it possible to take iron supplements to ensure my body is getting enough iron?
I hope you can help me with my questions and provide me with possible solutions. Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Lilli Kock
Dear Mrs. Kock,
Thank you for your message and your trust. It's good that you are concerned about your health and taking your symptoms seriously. The symptoms you described such as fatigue, weakness, concentration problems, and hair loss can indeed indicate an iron deficiency in the body. Iron is an important component of the red blood pigment hemoglobin, which is responsible for oxygen transport in the body. A lack of iron can therefore lead to the symptoms you described.
To determine an iron deficiency in the body, a blood test is usually required. This test measures the ferritin level in the blood, which indicates the body's iron stores. A low ferritin level can indicate an iron deficiency. It may also be useful to determine the hemoglobin level and iron transferrin level in the blood to get an accurate diagnosis.
If an iron deficiency is indeed detected in your case, there are various treatment options. Firstly, you can try to meet your iron needs through diet. Iron-rich foods include red meat, legumes, nuts, whole grains, and green leafy vegetables. It is important to regularly consume these foods to increase the iron level in the body.
In some cases, dietary iron intake may not be sufficient. In such cases, it may be helpful to take iron supplements in the form of tablets. Your doctor can help you find the right dosage and instructions for taking the iron supplements.
It is important that you see a doctor if you suspect an iron deficiency and have a blood test done to get an accurate diagnosis. Your doctor can then recommend the appropriate treatment and support you in improving your iron levels.
I hope this information helps you and that you can soon take action against your symptoms. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me again if you have any further questions or uncertainties.
Best regards,
Babette Kleine
