Does iron deficiency without anemia cause symptoms?

However, iron deficiency, even without anemia, is also associated with a variety of physical symptoms, including fatigue and decreased tolerance for exercise, as well as neuropsychological sequelae such as irritability, apathy, depressive symptoms, and decreased cognitive function and quality of life.

Can anemia be caused by something other than iron deficiency?

A history of certain infections, blood diseases and autoimmune disorders increases your risk of anemia. Alcoholism, exposure to toxic chemicals and the use of some medications can affect red blood cell production and lead to anemia.

What’s the difference between anemia and iron deficiency?

Anemia is caused by lack of Hemoglobin. Iron Deficiency is caused by lack of Iron. Iron Deficiency with Anemia is caused by both a lack of Iron AND a lack of Hemoglobin.

Does lack of iron cause leg pain?

Signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anemia can include dizziness, fatigue, lightheadedness, fast heart rate, palpitations, brittle nails, pallor, and shortness of breath. Other associated symptoms can include hair loss, loss of energy, headache, difficulty concentrating, leg cramps, and insomnia.

Should iron deficiency without anemia be treated?

Iron deficiency irrespective of manifestation should always be treated (17). The ferritin level should be controlled regularly during and after the iron administration with a sustained target ferritin of more than 100 μg/L.

Can low iron cause muscle pain?

Iron deficiency results in fatigue, poor endurance and even causes muscle pain (Gerwin, 2005).

What diseases cause low iron levels?

Some of the most common causes of iron deficiency anaemia are outlined below.

• Monthly periods. In women of reproductive age, periods are the most common cause of iron deficiency anaemia.
• Pregnancy.
• Gastrointestinal blood loss.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Chronic kidney disease.
• Other causes.

What are the symptoms of low ferritin?

Low ferritin levels

• unexplained fatigue.
• dizziness.
• chronic headaches.
• unexplained weakness.
• ringing in your ears.
• irritability.
• leg pains.
• shortness of breath.

Can low iron cause joint and muscle pain?

Fatigue and neurocognitive symptoms often raise a suspicion of depression. Furthermore, headache and muscle and joint pain associated with iron deficiency are repeatedly considered migraine and fibromyalgia syndrome, respectively 3, 19.

How can I check my iron levels at home?

The LetsGetChecked Iron Test is a simple finger prick test which can help determine if you’re at risk of iron deficiency anemia or iron overload by identifying your iron blood levels from the comfort of your own home. Once you’ve taken the test, your online results will be available within 5 days.

What causes anemia if you are not iron deficient?

Common Causes Inadequate Intake of Iron. IDA often occurs as a result of inadequate intake of iron from the diet. Impaired Ability to Absorb Iron. Certain medical conditions or surgeries can interfere with how the body absorbs iron. Menstrual Bleeding. Internal Bleeding. Pregnancy. Chronic Kidney Disease. Inflammatory Conditions.

What causes low iron saturation?

Some causes of low iron saturation include chronic iron deficiency, uremia, nephrotic syndrome and extensive cancer, according to Medscape. Dietary causes of low iron deficiency include not incorporating enough foods containing iron into the diet, notes Mayo Clinic.

What is low iron and anemia?

Anemia that is due to low iron levels is called iron deficiency anemia. Young women are likely to have low grade iron deficiency anemia because of the loss of blood each month through normal menstruation. This is generally without any major symptoms as the blood loss is relatively small and temporary.