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Iron deficiency is a common condition that can lead to anemia, a condition where your body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your tissues. 

What is Iron-Deficiency Anemia?

Iron is essential for various bodily functions, including the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. When your body lacks iron, it can't produce enough hemoglobin, resulting in iron-deficiency anemia. This condition can lead to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and pale skin.

Signs and Symptoms

Iron-deficiency anemia can manifest through various signs and symptoms, indicating decreased oxygen delivery to the body. These may include pale or yellowish skin, fatigue, weakness, rapid heartbeat, headache, and cravings for unusual substances like ice or clay. Additionally, people may experience hair loss, brittle nails, or a sore or smooth tongue.

Who is at Risk?

Several groups of people are at higher risk of developing iron-deficiency anemia:

Menstruating Women

Women who have heavy menstrual periods are particularly vulnerable due to monthly blood loss.

Pregnant, Breastfeeding Women 

Pregnant or breastfeeding women have increased iron needs to support both their own health and that of their baby.

Post Surgery

Patients who have undergone major surgery or experienced physical trauma may experience blood loss, leading to iron deficiency.

Gastrointestinal Diseases

People with gastrointestinal diseases like celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, or Crohn's disease may have impaired iron absorption.

Those with peptic ulcer disease or who have undergone bariatric procedures like gastric bypass are also at risk.

Less common causes of iron deficiency include gastrointestinal bleeding, chronic nosebleeds, blood loss from the kidneys or bladder, and frequent blood donations.

Vegetarians, Vegans

Vegetarians, vegans, and people with diets low in iron-rich foods may not consume enough iron to meet their body's needs.

Excessive Milk

Children who consume excessive amounts of cow's milk may experience decreased iron absorption and chronic blood loss.