Health care providers can assess anemia by testing your blood or saliva samples for iron deficiency anemia. Additional testing procedures, including colonoscopy and pelvic ultrasound may also be performed to ascertain its cause.
Anemia can be identified by having hemoglobin levels lower than average; pale skin on palm creases or inside eyelids are other indicators.
1. Redness
Iron plays an essential role in producing hemoglobin, the protein within red blood cells which transports oxygen throughout the body. If hemoglobin levels become deficient, skin can appear blue and bruised and also experience itching or pruritus – a symptom known as pruritus.
Anemia, or low hemoglobin and red blood cell counts, is a condition caused by lack of iron. This results in fatigue, weakness, decreased appetite and more susceptibility to infections than usual.
If you suffer from anemia, your physician may suggest either taking iron supplements or eating more iron-rich foods. Be sure to include both animal (haem) and non-animal proteins along with nutritious vegetables (cooking increases absorption).
2. Scalp Discoloration
If you’re experiencing brittle nails, headaches or pale skin it could be due to an iron deficiency. Low haemoglobin levels lead to low red blood cell production (anemia) as a result.
People at risk for iron deficiency include women who experience heavy menstrual cycles, those who regularly donate blood, those suffering from chronic bleeding such as nosebleeds or peptic ulcers and pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. Exercise frequently while eating a diet low in iron may also develop anemia.
Hemosiderin staining of the skin is an indicator of iron deficiency and occurs when hemoglobin breaks down, leaving behind excess iron in tissues. The discoloration manifests itself as dark or light bands on top of skin surfaces – usually over the shins but it may appear elsewhere too.
3. Dryness
Iron is essential in creating hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen throughout your body via red blood cells. If you don’t get enough iron from diet or your loss exceeds replacement, your red blood cell count may drop dramatically, leading to iron deficiency anemia, which causes dry skin, pale complexion and pruritus (itching). A more serious form of anemia – Aplastic anemia – can also result in itchy patches and petechiae (small pinpoint red or purple spots on skin) on skin surface.
Women of childbearing age are especially prone to anemia due to heavy menstrual bleeding and need for more iron during pregnancy, among other risk factors like heavy exercise, autoimmune disorders, hypothyroidism and specific medicines and treatments such as chemotherapy. A blood test will detect anemia; your physician can then provide supplements containing iron as well as advice about foods rich in this mineral.
4. Hair Loss
Hair loss is the hallmark symptom of iron deficiency, particularly among women. Additionally, this deficiency may cause dizziness, fatigue and cold hands or feet as the body struggles to get enough oxygen-rich blood flowing to these areas of its own.
Symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, red meat cravings or excess bleeding; your doctor will likely suggest taking iron tablets with added vitamin C for easier absorption in addition to eating iron-rich foods like red meat, nuts, dark greens and legumes. If excess bleeding persists or occurs at a different site than expected, further testing such as pelvic ultrasound or uterine biopsy might also be performed; in cases of excess bleeding a pelvic ultrasound or uterine biopsy might also be performed to identify its source and treat accordingly; genetic mutations or illnesses such as celiac disease could affect how your body absorbs iron absorption as well.
5. Hair Growth
Iron is essential in producing hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein present in red blood cells that helps maintain health in skin, nails and hair. Anemia caused by iron deficiency is more prevalent among premenopausal women due to monthly menstruation blood loss[138].
If you’re losing more hair than growing, iron deficiency may be to blame. Luckily, this form of hair loss doesn’t damage follicles and typically returns with treatment.
Diet changes and the addition of iron-rich foods or supplements may help. If you experience symptoms of iron deficiency, consult with a physician for a simple blood test to diagnose it and increase vitamin C consumption as this will allow the body to better absorb iron from food sources.
