Low iron levels can occur to varying degrees, and everyone can experience low iron levels for different reasons. Women can experience iron loss in connection with menstruation or pregnancy and childbirth, but you can also experience iron loss in connection with physical activity and exercise. The symptoms of low iron levels in the body can vary, but here are 8 common symptoms:
- Fatigue and exhaustion: Low iron levels can cause the body to receive less oxygen, which can make you feel tired and fatigued.
- Pale skin: Low iron levels can lead to reduced production of hemoglobin, which can make your skin paler than usual.
- Dizziness and headaches: Reduced oxygen supply to the brain due to low iron levels can lead to dizziness and headaches.
- Shortness of breath: If your body is not getting enough oxygen due to iron loss, you may feel short of breath.
- Heart palpitations: Low iron levels can cause your heart to beat faster than normal to compensate for reduced oxygen levels in the body.
- Dry skin and hair: Your skin and hair become drier than usual as a result of low iron levels.
- Irregular menstruation: Women who have low iron levels may experience irregular menstruation.
- Reduced immune system: Iron plays an important role in the immune system, and low iron levels can lead to reduced immunity and increased risk of infections.
What can you do if you experience symptoms of low iron levels?
If you experience any of the above symptoms or think you may have low iron levels, you may want to talk to your doctor to find out if you have low iron levels. A blood test can easily confirm if you have low iron levels.
