What does generalised weakness feel like with iron deficiency anaemia?

You may struggle to keep going through normal activities, need more rest, or feel short of breath when climbing stairs. Headaches, dizziness, paler skin, a fast heartbeat, cold hands and feet, brittle nails or hair changes may occur. Some people develop unusual cravings, such as wanting to chew non-food items, though this is not present in everyone.

Iron deficiency reduces the material needed to make haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in red blood cells. It may result from blood loss, low intake, reduced absorption or increased needs. Testing can confirm iron deficiency and helps clinicians look for the reason it developed.

Arrange an assessment if weakness continues or affects your routine. Tell the clinician about heavy periods, pregnancy, stomach symptoms, dietary restrictions, blood donation, black stools or other bleeding. Blood tests may assess the blood count and iron stores. Use iron treatment only as advised, and ask how it should be taken with food or other medicines.

Get urgent medical help for chest pain, severe breathlessness at rest, fainting, confusion, a persistent racing heartbeat, or heavy bleeding. Black or bloody stools with marked weakness need prompt attention. Sudden one-sided weakness or trouble speaking is an emergency and should not be attributed to iron deficiency.

Ask whether your symptoms fit iron deficiency, which tests are needed, and what source of blood loss or reduced absorption should be considered. Ask when improvement should be reviewed and what to do if treatment causes stomach upset.