Iron deficiency is a condition where the body lacks sufficient iron, essential for producing hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
_Causes:_
1. Inadequate dietary iron
2. Increased iron requirements (pregnancy, growth)
3. Chronic blood loss (menstruation, ulcers)
4. Internal bleeding (cancer, polyps)
5. Gastrointestinal disorders (celiac disease, Crohn's)
6. Surgery or trauma
7. Vegetarian or vegan diet
_Symptoms:_
1. Fatigue, weakness
2. Pale skin
3. Shortness of breath
4. Headaches
5. Dizziness
6. Cold hands and feet
7. Hair loss
8. Poor appetite
9. Restless leg syndrome
_Stages of Iron Deficiency:_
1. Iron depletion (low iron stores)
2. Iron deficiency without anemia (low iron, no anemia)
3. Iron deficiency anemia (low iron, low hemoglobin)
_Diagnosis:_
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
2. Serum iron and transferrin saturation
3. Ferritin levels
4. Physical examination
_Treatment:_
1. Dietary changes:
- Increase iron-rich foods (red meat, spinach, beans)
- Vitamin C enhances iron absorption
2. Supplements:
- Ferrous sulfate or ferrous gluconate
- Liquid iron supplements for severe deficiency
3. Address underlying causes:
- Treat bleeding disorders
- Manage gastrointestinal conditions
_Prevention:_
1. Balanced diet
2. Regular health check-ups
3. Iron supplements during pregnancy
4. Cooking in cast-iron cookware
_Complications:_
1. Anemia
2. Poor cognitive function
3. Increased risk of infections
4. Heart problems
5. Pregnancy complications
_Iron-Rich Foods:_
1. Red meat
2. Poultry
3. Fish
4. Legumes (lentils, chickpeas)
5. Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
6. Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds)
7. Whole grains
_Recommended Daily Intake:_
1. Adult males: 8 mg/day
2. Adult females: 18 mg/day (19-50 years)
3. Pregnant women: 27 mg/day
Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
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