How common are palpitations in iron deficiency anaemia?

Iron deficiency anaemia reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen. The heart may beat faster or more forcefully to meet the body's needs, which can be felt as palpitations. Tiredness, reduced exercise tolerance, breathlessness on exertion, light-headedness, headache or pale skin may occur as well. These features need a proper assessment rather than self-diagnosis.

Book an appointment for ongoing palpitations, fatigue or breathlessness. A clinician may arrange blood tests to check for anaemia and iron status, then look for a possible reason for iron deficiency if it is found. Do not start iron supplements solely because of palpitations; the dose and underlying cause both matter.

Seek urgent care for chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath, black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, or a heartbeat that remains very fast or irregular. Heavy bleeding with dizziness or weakness also needs prompt medical attention.

Ask whether blood tests are appropriate, whether bleeding, diet, absorption or another issue could be contributing, and whether your pulse needs an ECG check. Tell the clinician about menstrual bleeding, stomach symptoms and all medicines or supplements.