Typical Symptoms of Low Iron Anemia

• Feeling unusually tired or physically weak due to decreased oxygen delivery to tissues and muscles.

• Paleness (pallor) of the face, inside of the eyelids, lips, and nails caused by reduced hemoglobin.

• Difficulty breathing or feeling winded, especially during physical activity.

• Low oxygen levels can affect brain function, causing dizziness when standing up or moving quickly.

• The heart works harder to deliver oxygen, leading to a faster or irregular pulse.

• Decreased oxygen supply to the brain can trigger frequent or persistent headaches.

• Poor circulation and reduced red blood cells can lead to a feeling of being cold.

• Nails may become thin, brittle, and develop a concave or spoon-like shape.

• Iron deficiency may impair hair growth, leading to shedding or thinning.

• An uncomfortable urge to move the legs, often worsening at night, is associated with low iron levels.

• Unusual cravings for substances like ice, clay, dirt, or paper are linked to iron deficiency.

• The tongue may become inflamed, smooth, and sore, accompanied by difficulty swallowing.

• In severe cases, low hemoglobin can lead to reduced oxygen delivery to the heart, causing chest discomfort.

• Cognitive function, memory, and concentration can decline due to reduced oxygen delivery to the brain.

• Iron deficiency can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections.

• Mild Deficiency: Fatigue, weakness, and pallor may dominate.
• Moderate to Severe Deficiency: Symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, and RLS become more noticeable.

• Women of childbearing age (menstrual blood loss)
• Pregnant women (increased iron demand)
• Individuals with gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., celiac, Crohn’s)
• Vegans/vegetarians (low dietary iron intake)
• Individuals with chronic blood loss (e.g., ulcers, heavy periods, or internal bleeding)