Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common forms of anemia, occurring when the body lacks the iron needed to form hemoglobin. In red blood cells, hemoglobin is responsible for binding and transporting oxygen throughout the body.
If not treated early, iron deficiency anemia can develop into more serious health problems. This article will briefly discuss the causes, symptoms, and potential complications of iron deficiency anemia.
Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks iron, preventing it from producing enough hemoglobin to form red blood cells. Hemoglobin plays a vital role in carrying oxygen throughout the body.
Iron deficiency can be caused by bleeding, pregnancy, or impaired iron absorption. Anemia caused by low iron levels can be recognized by the following symptoms:
- Dizzy and face looks pale.
- Decreased appetite, especially in children.
- Foods you normally eat may taste strange or unusual.
- Fatigue that does not improve despite adequate rest.
- Tingling or discomfort in the feet.
- Shortness of breath and chest pain, especially during activity.
- Restless leg syndrome (an uncomfortable sensation in the legs when resting).
- Swollen or painful tongue, and difficulty swallowing.
- Hair loss and nails become brittle or break easily.
- Coldness in the hands and feet.
- Ringing in the ears.
- Sores at the corners of the mouth ( angular cheilitis ).
Complications of Iron Deficiency Anemia
If not treated properly, iron deficiency anemia can lead to various serious complications that impact quality of life and long-term health. Here are some common complications:
1. Premature Birth
Pregnant women with iron deficiency anemia have a higher risk of giving birth prematurely or with a low birth weight.
To support a healthy pregnancy, pregnant women are advised to meet their iron needs through diet and supplements recommended by their doctor.
2. Increased Risk of Infection
Children who experience iron deficiency anemia tend to have weaker immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections.
Prevention can be done by providing exclusive breastfeeding for six months, followed by complementary foods (MPASI) that are rich in iron, such as fortified cereals.
3. Growth Problems
Anemia in infants and children can disrupt their physical growth and development. Children with iron deficiency anemia tend to experience stunted growth, characterized by body posture and weight that are disproportionate to their age.
4. Chronic Fatigue and Decreased Concentration
A lack of hemoglobin reduces the oxygen supply to body tissues, causing the body to tire easily, even after adequate rest. This fatigue is often accompanied by dizziness, weakness, and decreased concentration, especially in active adults and students.
5. Heart problems
Iron deficiency anemia causes the heart to work harder to pump blood to meet the body's oxygen needs. Over the long term, this condition can lead to arrhythmias, heart enlargement, and even heart failure.
How to Treat Iron Deficiency Anemia?
Treatment for iron deficiency anemia involves increasing iron intake, either through food or supplements. Sufferers are encouraged to consume iron-rich foods such as red meat, green vegetables, and fish.
When iron levels in the body are too low, doctors will usually prescribe supplements. If the cause is bleeding, such as from polyps or fibroids, surgery may be necessary. In cases of impaired absorption, treatment is given with special medications.
If the condition does not improve with initial treatment, a blood transfusion can be a further step to increase hemoglobin levels quickly.
Visit a Doctor to Get the Right Treatment
If symptoms of iron deficiency anemia persist, consult a doctor immediately. This condition can worsen and have serious health consequences if not treated promptly and properly.
To confirm the patient's condition, the doctor will perform a thorough blood test to evaluate hemoglobin and red blood cells.
If necessary, additional examinations such as endoscopy, pelvic ultrasound, or blood tests in the stool will be performed to determine the exact cause and determine appropriate treatment steps.
The article was written by Dr. Ivan Banjuradja, Sp.PD (Internist Specialist at EMC Pulomas Hospital).