July 20, 2018 |  written by IVX Health

Iron Deficient? How to Know the Signs and Symptoms


Wondering if you might be iron deficient? Iron deficiency and anemia can cause a host of problems, so it’s important to know the symptoms.

Fatigue

If you find yourself unusually tired even though you’re getting a decent amount of sleep, you could be iron deficient. Iron is used to create hemoglobin, which carries oxygen through your body. When you don’t have enough iron, you don’t have enough hemoglobin, and thus your body isn’t getting the oxygen it needs to function properly.

Shortness of Breath

Similarly, if you find yourself breathing harder than usual after minor exertion or seemingly normal activities like walking, you may not have enough iron. Muscles need oxygen to perform, and if your body isn’t transporting oxygen efficiently, it’s going to think it needs more to get the job done. Be incredibly mindful of this symptom and don’t over do it.

Irregular Heartbeat

If you experience an irregular heartbeat or heart palpitations, iron deficiency could be the culprit. When you don’t have enough hemoglobin, your heart has to work harder to get oxygen to your tissues. If you haven’t been diagnosed with iron deficiency or are noticing your irregular heartbeats seem too regular, schedule an appointment to have your doctor run further testing.

Headaches

While headaches can seem like a common health problem, low hemoglobin and iron levels can cause frequent, persisting headaches. If your brain isn’t getting enough oxygen, blood vessels will swell and cause pressure and pain. Dizziness can also accompany iron deficiency related headaches.

Diagnosing Iron Deficiency

Low iron levels left untreated for a long period of time can lead to iron deficiency, making it incredibly important to take note if you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms and discuss a simple blood test to confirm the issue with your doctor. While some people can take over-the-counter iron supplements to address their issues, others will need a more direct approach such as regular infusions with biologic therapies such as Feraheme.

Treatment at IVX Health

If biologics like Remicade, Actemra or Orencia  are a part of your chronic illness treatment plan, then consider choosing IVX Health for your ongoing care needs. IVX Health makes it possible to receive your therapy in a comfortable, convenient, and private environment.

With a private suite for every patient, you can watch your favorite Netflix show or movie on the big screen TV in each room, use a laptop or other mobile device to surf the web, or simply hang out with family and friends. We always have chairs for guests, and each center has a family room that is spacious and private if you need to bring your kids to your treatment. We also offer flexible appointment scheduling – including evenings and Saturdays – at any of our convenient locations.

At IVX Health, we truly are invested in helping you live your best life. If you’re ready to experience a new kind of infusion clinic, click here to learn how to move your infusion or injection therapy to IVX Health.