What to know about iron deficiency anaemia in women

Iron deficiency means the body lacks enough iron to produce healthy haemoglobin. Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding is a common contributor, while pregnancy and breastfeeding can increase demand. Low iron intake, coeliac disease, stomach conditions, some medicines and bleeding from the digestive tract are other possibilities. The right explanation cannot be chosen from symptoms alone.

Tiredness, reduced stamina, headaches, dizziness, pale skin, breathlessness or a pounding heartbeat can occur. Some people develop brittle nails, hair shedding or a craving to chew non-food items. A blood count and iron studies help confirm the problem and guide the next step.

Take iron replacement as prescribed and report constipation, nausea, abdominal discomfort or difficulty swallowing it. Food sources include meat, lentils, beans, leafy vegetables and iron-fortified foods. Pairing plant sources with fruit or vegetables rich in vitamin C may support absorption. Ask about spacing iron from tea, coffee, calcium supplements or other medicines.

If periods are heavy, describe how often you change pads or tampons, whether clots occur and how long bleeding lasts. This helps a clinician decide whether menstrual treatment or further investigation is needed.

Seek prompt care for fainting, chest pain, breathlessness at rest, a fast heartbeat that persists, severe weakness or bleeding that is heavy or prolonged. Emergency help is appropriate for collapse, severe breathing difficulty, confusion or signs of major blood loss. New digestive bleeding or black stools should also be assessed, especially if you are not taking iron.

Ask what your blood results show, why iron may be low, how long treatment should continue, and when testing will be repeated. Discuss menstrual bleeding, diet, digestive symptoms and medicines so the plan addresses the source as well as the deficiency.