10 Signs of Iron Deficiency in the Body that are Easily Recognizable and How to Prevent Them

Kapanlagi.com - Nutrient and vitamin deficiencies in the body can cause various health problems. One important nutrient that the body needs is iron. Iron plays a crucial role in the process of red blood cell formation. Signs of iron deficiency in the body can be easily recognized by its various symptoms.

Iron is a part of essential minerals for the body. Because iron deficiency can affect the body's health. Iron has an important role in the process of red blood cell formation, which keeps the body fit and healthy. If the body lacks iron, it can cause several health problems related to the immune system.

Iron can be obtained from various foods such as fruits, vegetables, or meat as the main source of nutrients. Among the foods that contain iron such as liver, spinach, and oysters. However, unfortunately, many people are unaware when their bodies lack iron. Don't underestimate it, the lack of this nutrient can cause various health problems such as anemia.

There are various causes why someone might experience iron deficiency such as losing a lot of blood, especially during menstruation, disorders in the body to absorb iron nutrients, and lack of consumption of certain foods that contain iron. This condition can be characterized by certain symptoms.

So what are the signs of iron deficiency?

The signs of iron deficiency in the body that are easily recognizable are found in several points below. For more details, let's take a look at the following reviews regarding the signs of iron deficiency in the body summarized from various sources.

1. Hair Loss

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The first sign of iron deficiency in the body is experiencing hair loss. Hair loss can be considered abnormal if it exceeds the threshold amount. Normally, a person can experience hair loss of up to 100 strands per day. If it exceeds that limit, it can be one of the signs of certain health disorders, including iron deficiency.

The connection between iron and hair loss is that iron can strengthen hair follicles and promote hair growth. When the body has enough iron, the circulation of oxygen and nutrients through the blood can flow smoothly throughout the body.

2. Pale Skin

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Another sign of iron deficiency in the body is having pale skin. Although not always associated with a lack of iron, it is highly likely that pale skin is also associated with a lack of iron. As is known, iron plays an important role in the production of red blood cells that are distributed throughout the body.

A lack of iron nutrition in the body can cause a decrease in the number of red blood cells. This condition causes the face to appear paler. You can see signs of iron deficiency in the area of the lower eyelids, lips, and gums, which appear pale. However, further examination is needed to determine the exact iron deficiency in the body.

3. Shortness of Breath

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One sign of iron deficiency in the body is experiencing shortness of breath. This shortness of breath can occur because the body does not get enough oxygen due to a limited number of red blood cells. As a result, the lungs, which are an important part of the respiratory system, work harder and can trigger shortness of breath, as reported by liputan6.com.

4. Feeling Tired and Fatigued

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Another sign of iron deficiency in the body can be marked by feeling tired and fatigued. This condition can occur because the body lacks red blood cells or hemoglobin, which is associated with iron. Red blood cells are important for the body as they function to deliver oxygen to all organs. The lack of red blood cells can result in the body lacking energy and causing fatigue and lethargy. However, further examination is needed to determine the exact cause of feeling tired or fatigued.

5. Experiencing Headaches

One easily recognizable sign of iron deficiency is experiencing headaches. This is because iron plays an important role in the production of hemoglobin in the body. A low level of hemoglobin can cause various symptoms, including headaches. These headaches are often accompanied by dizziness and blurred vision. However, further examination is needed to determine the exact cause of the headaches.

6. Tongue Feels Stiff and Swollen

Another sign of iron deficiency is a stiff and swollen tongue. This condition may be experienced by individuals who lack iron. According to klikdokter, as cited by The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, a swollen tongue can be a sign of iron deficiency in the body. The tongue will feel more swollen and painful due to a low level of red blood cells or hemoglobin. In addition to the tongue, other parts of the mouth, especially the lips, may also experience swelling and cracking.

7. Susceptible to Infections

When the body lacks iron, it can also make it susceptible to infections. This condition can occur because iron is one of the essential nutrients associated with the immune system. Weak immune system can make it easier to get sick and infected from exposure to free radicals. Therefore, fulfilling the iron needs is necessary to prevent various infections and diseases.

8. Palpitations

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Palpitations can also be a sign of iron deficiency in the body. This condition can occur because the heart has to work extra hard to supply oxygen to the entire body. This can cause the heart to beat rapidly and irregularly. In certain conditions, these palpitations can trigger heart enlargement and heart failure as reported by hellosehat.com.

9. Disturbed Nail Health

As it is known, iron deficiency is closely related to anemia. One of the most common symptoms of anemia is disturbed nail health. In other words, several problems may arise due to iron deficiency, resulting in anemia, ranging from brittle nails to abnormal nail shapes. However, consulting a doctor is necessary to determine the exact cause of this health disorder.

10. Feeling Cold in Hands and Feet

Feet and hands can feel cold when the body lacks iron. Iron is one of the essential nutrients for delivering oxygen and red blood cells throughout the body. If there is a disruption or a small amount of iron, this condition may cause the feet and hands to feel colder due to reduced oxygen in those organs.

11. How to Prevent Iron Deficiency

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After knowing the signs of iron deficiency in the body, it is also important to understand how to prevent it. The ways to prevent iron deficiency are as follows:

- Consume foods that contain iron such as liver, soybeans and lentils, and spinach.

- Some types of seafood can also be a major source of iron, such as oysters, squid, and fish.

- Meet the body's vitamin C needs to be able to absorb iron.

- Avoid foods high in calcium.

Those are the 10 signs of iron deficiency in the body that are easily recognizable and how to prevent it. Further examination is needed to determine if the body is deficient in iron.

(kpl/nlw)