About this disease
What it is about
Iron is a vital mineral that we obtain through our diet. It is needed above all for the production of the red blood pigment known as hemoglobin. Hemoglobin binds the oxygen absorbed through the lungs and transports it to the individual cells of the body. If there is an iron deficiency, not enough hemoglobin can be produced, which worsens the oxygen supply to the tissues. This explains the very different symptoms of iron deficiency, depending on the severity of the deficiency.
Types
Our body needs about one milligram of iron per day. However, we can only absorb about one tenth of the amount of iron supplied with food from the intestines. Therefore, the daily intake must be sufficiently high. An iron deficiency can therefore be caused by an insufficient supply in the diet, but also by a disturbance in the already low absorption capacity via the intestine. Iron deficiency can also result from marked or repeated blood loss. In certain situations, such as pregnancy and lactation, the iron requirement is even higher than normal.
Symptoms and consequences
To a certain extent, normal blood formation can be maintained even if iron deficiency is already present. This is referred to as latent iron deficiency. Nevertheless, symptoms such as fatigue, reduced performance or hair and nail changes can already occur. If the iron deficiency continues to increase, not enough blood can be produced and iron deficiency anemia occurs. Depending on the severity, the symptoms can be very different. They range from mild circulatory problems and dizziness to shortness of breath and rapid exhaustion.
What we do for you
Examination and diagnosis
Whether an iron deficiency is present can first be determined by a blood test. The next step is to get to the bottom of the cause of the iron deficiency. A discussion about dietary habits, bleeding signs and, in women, the intensity of menstruation can provide information. In some cases, it may also be useful to perform a gastroscopy and/or colonoscopy to look for hidden bleeding in the intestines.
Treatment
An iron deficiency must be covered by an additional iron supply. This can be done by taking iron supplements. If these are not well tolerated or if oral administration is not sufficient to compensate for the iron deficiency, iron infusions can be given.