Iron-Deficiency Anemia - Signs, Symptoms, and Complications - Signs, Symptoms, and Complications

Common signs of iron-deficiency anemia include:

• Brittle nails or spooning of the nails
• Cracks at the sides of the mouth
• Pale skin
• Swelling or soreness of the tongue

Common symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia include: 

• Chest pain
• Coldness in the hands and feet
• Difficulty concentrating
• Dizziness
• Fatigue, or feeling tired, is the most common symptom. This can make it hard to find the energy to do normal activities.
• Headache
• Irregular heartbeat. This is a sign of more serious iron-deficiency anemia.
• Pica, which are unusual cravings for nonfood items, such as ice, dirt, paint, or starch.
• Restless legs syndrome
• Shortness of breath
• Weakness

Undiagnosed or untreated iron-deficiency anemia may cause the following complications:

• Depression
• Heart problems. If you do not have enough hemoglobin-carrying red blood cells, your heart has to work harder to move oxygen-rich blood through your body. Cells in tissues need a steady supply of oxygen to work well. Normally, hemoglobin in red blood cells takes up oxygen in the lungs and carries it to all the tissues of the body. When your heart has to work harder, this can lead to several conditions: irregular heartbeats called arrhythmias, a heart murmur, an enlarged heart, or even heart failure.
• Increased risk of infections
• Motor or cognitive development delays in children
• Pregnancy complications, such as preterm delivery or giving birth to a baby with low birth weight

In people with chronic conditions, iron-deficiency anemia can make their condition worse or result in treatments not working as well.

• Diagnosis will discuss any procedures used to detect signs of iron-deficiency anemia and help rule out other types of anemia.
• Treatment will explain treatment-related complications or side effects.