The signs of iron deficiency may not be obvious, but you should be aware that your body needs extra iron in order to function normally. In this article we will review symptoms, treatment and other resources related to iron deficiency. In addition, we’ll discuss Haemochromatosis, Crohn’s disease, Irritable bowel syndrome and chronic blood loss.
Haemochromatosis is a genetic disorder in which the body has a difficult time controlling its iron levels. The hormone hepcidin is responsible for controlling the amount of iron absorbed in the body. Higher levels of this hormone tell the body to absorb less iron while lower levels cause the body to absorb more iron. People with hemochromatosis have low levels of hepcidin, which leads to an overabsorption of iron. The condition is hereditary, and people with two copies of this gene are at a greater risk of developing the disorder.
A blood test can be performed to determine if you have the disorder. The doctor will look for symptoms, such as liver disease, and ask about any family history of hemochromatosis. Genetic tests are also used to look for any mutations in the gene that cause hemochromatosis.
There are many potential symptoms of Crohn’s disease that can be caused by an iron deficiency, and the right treatment depends on addressing the root cause. Iron supplementation alone is not sufficient to treat Crohn’s disease, so patients should seek the assistance of a physician.
Crohn’s disease is characterized by inflammation of the digestive tract. This inflammation disrupts the absorption sites for nutrients in the small intestine. This affects the absorption of iron, which is mainly absorbed in the duodenum. A person with Crohn’s disease may have iron deficiency symptoms if they experience menstrual bleeding.
Iron deficiency anemia can affect the quality of life of people with Crohn’s disease and other forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Patients with iron deficiency anemia can have a lower chance of achieving remission. However, the symptoms and risks of iron deficiency can be managed.
Irritable bowel syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a common symptom of an iron deficiency. The recommended daily intake of iron is around 15 mg. However, only about 1 to 2 mg of this iron is absorbed into the body. The rest is excreted in the stool. Iron deficiency can be treated with diet and iron supplements. Iron rich foods include meat, poultry, fish, and enriched cereals. Vegetables and eggs also contain high levels of iron.
If you have an IBS condition, it is imperative to consult a doctor to determine if you have a deficiency. A low level of iron can result in anemia, which affects red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. The condition often manifests itself in menstruating women.
Chronic blood loss
Chronic blood loss due to iron deficincy is a serious condition and requires treatment. It occurs when the body cannot produce enough red blood cells, causing it to be weak and anemic. Luckily, there are several treatment options. One of these is iron supplementation. These supplements are usually given in the form of tablets. It is also possible to receive iron intravenously.
Women are particularly at risk for iron-deficiency anemia. Their menstrual cycles can cause blood loss, and their bodies often require more blood during pregnancy. Older adults are also at risk of iron-deficiency anemia, particularly if they have a history of chronic medical conditions. Other risk factors include heavy menstrual periods and surgeries.
Increased iron requirements
The increased iron requirements during pregnancy result from the fact that a pregnant woman’s blood volume increases by about 35 percent. In addition, a pregnant woman’s placenta and other maternal tissues increase in size. As a result, the iron requirement of a pregnant woman’s body increases by about five milligrams per day. Additionally, during pregnancy, menstruation ceases and iron absorption increases. The CDC recommends periodic screening for anemia in pregnant women.
Other factors that increase a woman’s iron requirement include pregnancy, menstruation, and growth spurts. In addition, some women have abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract that can decrease their ability to absorb iron. For example, excessive stomach acid decreases the absorption of iron. Furthermore, women with previous iron-deficiency anemia are more likely to suffer from iron-deficiency anemia.