How Can I Tell If I Have an Iron Deficiency?

Iron deficiency occurs when your body does not have enough of the mineral iron.

Your body requires iron to make hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that enables them to carry oxygen throughout your body. Insufficient hemoglobin means your tissues and muscles will not receive adequate oxygen to function effectively, potentially resulting in anemia.

While different types of anemia exist, iron deficiency anemia is the most common. The signs and symptoms of iron deficiency vary based on:

• The severity of the anemia
• How quickly it develops
• Your age
• Your current state of health

Some people experience no symptoms at all. Here are the primary signs and symptoms of iron deficiency.

Unusual Tiredness

This is a common symptom of iron deficiency anemia. Without sufficient hemoglobin, your heart must work harder to move oxygen-rich blood throughout your body, causing fatigue.

Paler Skin

Hemoglobin in red blood cells gives blood its red color. Low levels during iron deficiency make blood less red, causing skin to lose color and warmth.

Shortness of Breath

Low hemoglobin means low oxygen levels. Your muscles will not receive enough oxygen for normal activities like walking. Your body responds by increasing breathing rate to obtain more oxygen.

Headaches

Iron deficiency may cause headaches, particularly in women. Frequent, recurrent headaches could indicate iron deficiency.

Heart Palpitations

Noticeable heartbeats can signal iron deficiency anemia. With low hemoglobin, your heart works harder to carry oxygen, potentially causing irregular heartbeats or rapid heartbeat sensations.

Dry and Damaged Hair and Skin

When skin and hair lack oxygen, they become dry and weak. Significant hair loss beyond normal shedding may relate to iron deficiency.

Swelling and Soreness of Tongue and Mouth

Look for signs including a swollen, inflamed, pale, or unusually smooth tongue. Iron deficiency may also cause:

• A dry mouth
• A burning sensation in your mouth
• Sore red cracks at mouth corners
• Mouth ulcers

Restless Legs

Iron deficiency links to restless legs syndrome, a strong urge to move your legs while at rest. It can also cause unpleasant, crawling, or itchy sensations in your feet and legs, typically worse at night and disrupting sleep. Approximately 25% of people with iron deficiency anemia experience restless legs syndrome, and the prevalence is nine times higher in those with iron deficiency compared to the general population.

Brittle or Spoon-Shaped Fingernails

Called koilonychia, this is a much less common symptom. Initially, nails become brittle, chipping and cracking easily. In severe iron deficiency, spoon-shaped nails may develop, where the nail’s middle dips and edges raise, creating a spoon-like appearance. This rare side effect occurs in only about 5% of people with iron deficiency and typically appears only in severe cases.

Other Potential Signs

Additional, typically less common signs that may indicate low iron include:

• Strange cravings
• Feelings of depression
• Cold hands and feet
• More frequent infections

These symptoms can link to many conditions besides iron deficiency, so professional evaluation is important for accurate diagnosis. If you are experiencing these symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider for proper testing and treatment.