What are the symptoms of iron deficiency in the body?

Iron is the main trace element in the body, and its role in the functioning of the circulatory system and shaping our daily well-being cannot be overestimated. It is worth ensuring an adequate supply of iron and regularly checking your blood count, as this can prevent many physiological disorders.

1. Why is iron so important?
2. How does iron deficiency occur?
3. Who is particularly at risk of anaemia?
4. What are the symptoms of iron deficiency and anaemia?

Why is iron so important?

Iron is the most abundant microelement in the body and has a significant impact on health and physical and mental performance. It is responsible for the proper functioning of muscles and the brain. It is a component of proteins present in red blood cells that transport oxygen to tissues, which has a direct impact on exercise tolerance, attention span and concentration.

In addition, it indirectly influences many metabolic processes necessary for, among other things, the condition of connective tissues and the synthesis of certain hormones. It is also needed for DNA synthesis and repair, as well as for numerous processes related to cellular homeostasis.

How does iron deficiency occur?

The body's iron reserves are depleted in stages. However, these stages do not have a strictly defined time frame, as the excretion of this element does not occur at a regular rhythm and rate. Its level therefore depends mainly on systematic supply and absorption. When the body's iron requirements are not met, as well as in cases of heavy bleeding, physiological processes begin to use up certain natural reserves.

Failure to respond appropriately, i.e. by consuming easily absorbable iron, results in a further reduction in its stored amounts and a decrease in the number of red blood cells. The worsening of this condition leads to anaemia, when the following levels decrease: haemoglobin in the blood (which carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues), the volume of red blood cells (and haematocrit), and the reserves of ferritin and transferrin (proteins responsible for storage in the liver and concentration in plasma, respectively).

Who is particularly at risk of anaemia?

This microelement is one of the most commonly deficient nutritional compounds. Deficiencies most often occur in elimination and poorly balanced diets, as well as in children and women during menstruation or pregnancy. In addition, the risk of deficiency may develop in the elderly, competitive endurance athletes, or in cases of chronic renal failure.

What are the symptoms of iron deficiency and anaemia?

The most troublesome symptoms include constant fatigue and weakness, as they cause a decrease in concentration and performance, and thus also in the effectiveness of activities undertaken. Dizziness, shortness of breath or heart rhythm disturbances may also occur.

Other characteristic symptoms include pale skin, brittle nails, hair loss and reduced tolerance to low temperatures. One of the most peculiar symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia is a mental disorder in which one may experience an increased appetite for non-food products, such as soil or dirt in the broad sense.