Iron deficiency

Iron deficiency is a common condition that can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other health concerns. Get expert advice from our Australian-registered online doctors, available 24/7.

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When to consult a doctor for iron deficiency ?

If symptoms are persistent or recurrent

See a doctor if you experience chronic fatigue, ongoing weakness, dizziness, or shortness of breath, as these may indicate underlying iron deficiency requiring treatment.

If noticeable physical signs appear

Consult a doctor if you have pale skin, brittle nails, hair loss, frequent headaches, or unusual cravings for non-food items, which can signal iron deficiency.

If complications or high-risk situations occur

Seek medical advice if you have heart palpitations, are pregnant, or if a child shows signs of iron deficiency, to ensure proper diagnosis and management.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed.by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

Causes

Iron deficiency can result from blood loss or a diet low in iron-rich foods. It may cause fatigue, poor concentration, and increased infections. Iron comes in two forms: haem (animal sources) and non-haem (plant sources). Non-haem iron is less easily absorbed, but pairing it with vitamin C-rich foods (e.g., citrus fruits) can improve absorption. Common causes include:

Not eating enough iron-rich foods: As your body does not produce iron, you need to consume iron-rich foods through your diet. People at higher risk of iron deficiency due to dietary intake include:
- Children and teenagers (especially females)
- Women with heavy menstrual periods
- Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals
- Vegetarians and vegans who may not get enough iron from plant-based sources
- Babies who are fed cow’s milk instead of breast milk or iron-fortified formula

Difficulty absorbing iron: Iron from food is absorbed in the stomach and intestines. Certain conditions and medical procedures can reduce iron absorption, such as:
- Coeliac disease or other digestive disorders
- Stomach surgery (e.g., gastric bypass)
- Certain medications that reduce stomach acid

Blood loss: Losing blood means losing iron, which can lead to deficiency. Common causes of excessive blood loss include:
- Heavy menstrual periods (leading to chronic iron depletion)
- Gastrointestinal bleeding due to ulcers, bowel polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or cancer
- Frequent blood donation
- Surgery or injury-related blood loss
- Parasitic infections such as hookworms

Symptoms

Iron deficiency can affect multiple body systems, leading to physical, cognitive, and circulatory symptoms, including:

Fatigue and weakness: Feeling excessively tired or lacking energy

Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing even with mild activity

Pale skin: Noticeable paleness, especially in the face and inner eyelids

Dizziness or light-headedness: Frequent spells of feeling faint

Cold hands and feet: Poor circulation due to low oxygen levels

Brittle nails and hair loss: Nails becoming weak and hair thinning or falling out

Frequent headaches: Oxygen deprivation leading to persistent headaches

Unusual cravings: A desire to eat non-food items like ice, dirt, or chalk

Rapid heartbeat or palpitations: The heart working harder to compensate for low oxygen levels

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