Iron deficiency anemia

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Iron deficiency anemia

Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body does not have enough iron. It can cause weakness, pale skin, and general tiredness.

The body needs iron to produce new red blood cells. Low iron levels can be caused by:

Bleeding from conditions such as ulcers, heavy menstrual periods, or cancer.
Poor absorption of iron by the body.
Lack of iron in the diet or not enough iron in the diet during times of growth, such as pregnancy, early childhood, and the teen years.

Iron deficiency anemia is usually diagnosed using blood tests, but the cause is usually found when the doctor is taking a medical history or performing a colonoscopy. Treatment often includes making diet changes, taking iron supplements, and treating other conditions or problems that may be causing iron deficiency. In rare cases, blood transfusions may be needed.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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