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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffInitially, iron deficiency anemia can be so mild that it goes unnoticed. But as the body becomes more deficient in iron and anemia worsens, the signs and symptoms intensify.
Iron deficiency anemia symptoms may include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Pale skin
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Headache
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Cold hands and feet
- Irritability
- Inflammation or soreness of your tongue
- Increased likelihood of infections
- Brittle nails
- Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- Unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances, such as ice, dirt or pure starch
- Poor appetite, especially in infants and children with iron deficiency anemia
- Restless legs syndrome — an uncomfortable tingling or crawling feeling in your legs
When to see a doctor
If you or your child develops signs and symptoms that suggest iron deficiency anemia, see your doctor. Iron deficiency anemia isn't something to self-diagnose or treat. Take iron supplements only with a doctor's supervision. Overloading the body with iron can be dangerous because excess iron accumulation can damage your liver and cause other complications.
- Iron-deficiency anemia. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/ida/ida_all.html. Accessed Jan. 22, 2009.
- Schrier SL. Causes and diagnosis of anemia due to iron deficiency. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 19, 2009.
- Schrier SL. Approach to the adult patient with anemia. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 19, 2009.
- Mesa R (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Jan. 28, 2009.
- Schrier SL. Treatment of anemia due to iron deficiency. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 19, 2009.
