Which specialist treats iron deficiency anaemia?

Iron deficiency anaemia develops when the body does not have enough iron to make the haemoglobin needed to carry oxygen. It may cause pale skin, shortness of breath, palpitations, tiredness, headaches, or restless legs. A GP can arrange a blood test, review your diet and medicines, and ask about menstrual bleeding, pregnancy, digestive symptoms, or other possible blood loss.

Treatment may include prescribed iron and investigation of why iron became low. A haematologist may be involved when anaemia is severe, recurrent, unexplained, or does not respond as expected. A gynaecologist may help when heavy menstrual bleeding is contributing, while a gastroenterology referral may be considered for digestive blood loss.

Book a GP appointment and bring previous blood results, a medicine and supplement list, and details of bleeding, diet, bowel changes, or pregnancy. Do not assume that tiredness alone proves iron deficiency. Take iron only as directed, because the right preparation and timing vary and side effects can include constipation or stomach upset. Ask how treatment response will be checked.

Arrange prompt assessment for worsening breathlessness, frequent palpitations, marked weakness, or fainting. Seek emergency help for chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, collapse, or heavy bleeding. Anaemia can have several causes, so treating the low iron without investigating ongoing blood loss may leave the problem unresolved.

Ask which blood tests are needed, what may be causing the deficiency, how long treatment should continue, when repeat testing is due, and whether a haematology, gynaecology, or digestive-system referral is appropriate.