What are the signs of iron deficiency anemia?

Answer:

Iron deficiency anemia, which can be diagnosed with a blood test, is most common in menstruating women, but is also commonly seen in children and women who are pregnant. Few men are deficient in iron, and some may be at risk of excess iron.

Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia can include fatigue and shortness of breath, rapid or irregular heartbeats, changes in skin and nails, restless legs syndrome, unusual cravings (pica), and others. This can be treated with iron supplementation. Even in women who are not iron deficient, iron supplementation may help to improve unexplained fatigue.

Learn how much and which forms of iron to take to prevent or treat iron deficiency in the ConsumerTips section of the Iron Supplements Review, which also includes information about how to avoid an upset stomach when taking iron. Also see our top choices for iron supplements based on our independent tests of quality and comparison of ingredients and cost. In addition, find out if anemia can impact pulse oximeter readings.