Women miss warning signs of iron deficiency by mistaking them as harmless conditions β as one in 10 women have iron deficiency anemia
- Iron is essential for making red blood cells, which transport oxygen throughout the body
- But many women may miss lesser-known symptoms of iron deficiency
- These include tinnitus, hair loss, mouth ulcers and an altered sense of taste
Women may miss the warning signs of a potentially fatal iron deficiency by mistaking them as harmless conditions, doctors warn.
Iron is essential for the production of red blood cells, which help transport oxygen throughout the body.
But around one in 10 women have iron deficiency anemia β twice as many men develop the condition.
A deficiency of iron β found in red meat and green leafy vegetables β in our diets can increase the risk of heart disease, serious infections and kidney failure.
While doctors from testing agency London Medical Laboratory say many people will recognize fatigue, extremely pale skin, shortness of breath and palpitations as ‘red flags’ for the condition, lesser-known symptoms include ringing in the ears, hair loss and mouth ulcers.
Women may miss the warning signs of a potentially fatal iron deficiency by mistaking them as harmless conditions, doctors warn. Iron is essential for the production of red blood cells, which help transport oxygen throughout the body
Many people will recognize fatigue, extremely pale skin, shortness of breath and palpitations as ‘red flags’ for iron deficiency, but lesser-known symptoms include mouth ulcers, an altered sense of taste, difficulty swallowing and a sore or itchy tongue.
The clinic also warns of an altered sense of taste, swallowing problems and a sore or itchy tongue.
Anemia can be caused by bleeding, so women with heavy periods are at increased risk.
Bleeding in the stomach or intestines, as a side effect of a stomach ulcer or excessive use of anti-inflammatory medications, is another cause.
βAnyone suffering from these symptoms is advised to seek medical advice and consider a blood test to detect possible causes,β said clinical lead Dr Avinash Hari Narayanan.
‘Pregnant and younger women should pay particular attention as they are most at risk.’
Recent research published in the medical journal The Lancet shows that the number of cases worldwide has risen to 1.9 billion, up from 1.5 billion in 1990. This is mainly due to poor diet.
In Britain, 57,000 people are admitted to hospital every year due to anemia, but many cases are preventable, says Dr Hari Narayanan.
‘Very often, anemia caused by iron deficiency can be easily treated with supplements and dietary changes.
‘In Britain, hundreds of thousands of women of childbearing age are thought to have the condition, but many never suspect it.’
Those who think they may have iron deficiency anemia can request a blood test from their doctor.