THE MOST COMMON CAUSE OF ANAEMIA
Iron Deficiency Anaemia
A common form of anaemia caused by inadequate iron, leading to fatigue, weakness, pallor and breathlessness. Effectively treated with iron supplementation and identification of any underlying cause of iron loss.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Iron Deficiency Anaemia
Iron deficiency anaemia is the most common cause of anaemia worldwide, occurring when the body does not have enough iron to produce sufficient haemoglobin — the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Common causes include inadequate dietary iron, increased iron needs (pregnancy, growth), blood loss (heavy menstrual periods, gastrointestinal bleeding from ulcers, polyps, cancer or haemorrhoids) and impaired iron absorption (coeliac disease, gut surgery). Typical features include tiredness, weakness, pallor, breathlessness on exertion, palpitations, dizziness, brittle nails, hair loss, restless legs and reduced exercise tolerance. Diagnosis is confirmed with blood tests showing low haemoglobin and iron studies showing low ferritin. Identifying and treating the underlying cause of iron loss is essential, particularly in adult men and postmenopausal women, where gastrointestinal bleeding must be ruled out. Treatment includes iron supplementation and addressing the underlying cause. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides comprehensive iron deficiency anaemia evaluation and care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Inadequate dietary iron intake
- Heavy menstrual periods in women
- Gastrointestinal bleeding from ulcers, polyps or cancer
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (increased needs)
- Impaired iron absorption due to coeliac disease or gut surgery
- Repeated blood donation in some donors
- Haemorrhoids causing chronic blood loss
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Complete blood count, iron studies (ferritin, iron, TIBC) and tests for cause of iron loss
Essential in adult men and postmenopausal women — gastrointestinal evaluation often needed
Iron supplementation (oral or IV) and treatment of the underlying cause
Iron supplementation typically continued for several months
Iron-rich foods and vitamin C-containing foods support iron absorption
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Iron Replacement with Cause Identification
The most effective approach is iron supplementation combined with structured workup to identify and treat the underlying cause of iron loss — particularly important in adult men and postmenopausal women, where gastrointestinal evaluation is often needed.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, examines the patient and arranges complete blood count, iron studies and tests for cause of iron loss.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created with iron supplementation and structured workup of any underlying cause.
- 3
Medical Management
Iron supplementation (oral or intravenous), dietary advice and treatment of the identified underlying cause.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Regular follow-up with blood tests to monitor response, complete the underlying-cause workup and prevent recurrence.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Oral Iron Supplementation
Oral iron supplementation is the first-line treatment for most patients, taken for several months until iron stores are replenished.
Intravenous Iron in Selected Patients
Intravenous iron is used when oral therapy is not tolerated, not effective, or rapid replacement is needed.
Investigation of Underlying Cause
Identifying the cause of iron loss is essential — often requiring gastrointestinal evaluation including endoscopy, particularly in adult men and postmenopausal women.
Dietary Advice
Iron-rich foods (lean meat, dark leafy greens, pulses, fortified foods) and vitamin C-containing foods support iron absorption.
Treatment of Underlying Cause
Specific treatment is provided for the underlying cause — managing heavy menstrual periods, treating ulcers or polyps, or addressing absorption issues.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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