E61.1: Iron deficiency

You have been found to have an iron deficiency.

Iron is a very important part of red blood cells. The red blood cells bring oxygen from the lungs into the entire body. Iron is also a component of important proteins in the body.

Large amounts of iron are contained in animal products and moreover in various kinds of vegetables, legumes, nuts and grains. There are many different causes for the body having insufficient iron. It is possible for too little iron to be absorbed with food. In some people, iron may not be properly absorbed from food. In some situations, your body needs more iron than it would normally. That is the case in pregnant or nursing women, for example. Also when you are growing or doing a lot of exercise, your body needs additional iron. If the body loses a lot of blood, it also loses a lot of iron. You may then have too little iron in your body.

An iron deficiency may cause you to have dry skin, dry lips and brittle nails. Dry skin can itch severely. Sometimes the hair on your head may fall out. The mucous membrane in your mouth may become inflamed and painful. Furthermore, you may have headaches. You may have trouble concentrating on something or get upset more quickly than usual. If you have an iron deficiency, you may also feel feeble and look pale.