What is iron deficiency anemia?
Disease description:
I don't know what's going on with me lately, but I've been experiencing frequent abdominal discomfort and blood in my stool without hemorrhoids, as well as dizziness and blurred vision. I looked it up online, and it mentioned iron deficiency anemia. I'd like to ask, what exactly is iron deficiency anemia?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng
Iron deficiency anemia is a common blood disorder primarily caused by insufficient iron levels in the body, leading to reduced hemoglobin synthesis and consequently affecting the normal function of red blood cells. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to tissues and organs throughout the body. When the body lacks sufficient iron, hemoglobin synthesis is impaired, resulting in decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells and triggering a range of clinical symptoms.
Iron deficiency anemia commonly occurs in infants, young children, adolescents, pregnant women, and breastfeeding women—populations with increased iron requirements or impaired iron absorption. Symptoms include pallor, fatigue, dizziness, palpitations, shortness of breath, and, in severe cases, it can affect quality of life and work capacity.
The key to treating iron deficiency anemia is replenishing adequate iron to restore normal hemoglobin synthesis. This can usually be achieved through dietary adjustments, iron supplementation, or blood transfusions. Simultaneously, improving dietary habits can enhance iron absorption and utilization.
