Fatigue – a symptom, not a diagnosis
Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms that brings patients to the doctor. It can be related to various factors – from lifestyle to chronic diseases. However, one of the most frequent biological causes is low iron levels, which can lead to iron deficiency anemia.
What is iron deficiency?
Iron is an essential micronutrient required for the synthesis of hemoglobin – the protein responsible for oxygen transport in the blood. If iron levels are low, tissues do not receive enough oxygen, causing fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating.
According to studies, iron deficiency is common in all age groups, especially in women of reproductive age, pregnant women, and seniors. Research shows that a ferritin level below 30 ng/ml is a clinically significant indicator for diagnosing iron deficiency.
Symptoms that may indicate iron deficiency
- Persistent fatigue and weakness
- Pale skin and mucous membranes
- Shortness of breath with minimal exertion
- Hair loss and brittle nails
- Headaches, dizziness, palpitations
- Craving for non-food items (such as ice or chalk)
Diagnosis: Ferritin and Iron Tests
Fatigue and iron deficiency: what happens in the body?
- Iron is a vital component of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen to tissues. If iron levels are low, oxygen delivery decreases, leading to fatigue, weakness, and difficulty concentrating.
- Ferritin is a protein that stores iron. Low ferritin is often an early sign of iron deficiency, even if hemoglobin is still within normal limits.
- Low ferritin (<30 ng/ml) is associated with fatigue, brittle hair and nails, shortness of breath, headaches, and even restless legs syndrome.
- To accurately determine iron levels, blood tests are needed:
- Ferritin measurement – the most precise indicator of iron stores
- Transferrin saturation
- Complete blood count
Nutrition and iron absorption
Iron absorption depends on its form:
- Heme iron (from animal products) is absorbed better
- Non-heme iron (from plant products) is absorbed less efficiently, but absorption is enhanced by vitamin C
Iron-rich foods:
- Beef liver, red meat, chicken
- Spinach, lentils, beans, tofu
- Dried fruits, nuts, beets, broccoli
Iron supplements and treatment
- Treatment includes iron supplements (oral or intravenous), dietary adjustments, and vitamin C intake to improve absorption
- Supplements should be taken for at least 3–6 months to restore iron stores
- Important: Iron supplements should be taken on an empty stomach, avoiding coffee, tea, and dairy products, which inhibit absorption
Low iron levels are a common but often overlooked cause of fatigue. Timely diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve quality of life. If you experience persistent fatigue, get a blood test and consult one of our specialists at “Republikas laukuma klīnika”.
