Experts Warn Persistent Fatigue May Signal Iron Deficiency, Especially in Women of Reproductive Age
Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide and can cause symptoms beyond anemia, according to health experts. Women of reproductive age are particularly at risk due to blood loss during menstruation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, which increase the body's iron requirements. Additional risk factors include poor dietary iron intake, unbalanced vegetarian or vegan diets, frequent blood donations, malabsorption disorders like celiac disease, and gastrointestinal illnesses.
Symptoms of iron deficiency can include persistent fatigue, difficulty concentrating, dizziness, shortness of breath during exertion, heart palpitations, hair loss, brittle nails, and paleness. These symptoms are not exclusive to iron deficiency, so medical evaluation is essential. Notably, iron deficiency can exist without anemia, meaning hemoglobin levels may appear normal while the body's iron stores are depleted. In such cases, doctors may order ferritin tests to assess iron reserves, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Dietary improvements such as consuming red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, tahini, and green vegetables can help increase iron intake. However, significant deficiencies often require iron supplements, which should only be taken after medical diagnosis to avoid potential harm from excess iron. Treatment may also target underlying causes like gastrointestinal bleeding or absorption issues. Experts caution against self-medicating with iron supplements without proper blood tests and medical guidance.
