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Signs of iron deficiency

If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms you may be suffering from iron deficiency (ID)

Sore tongue or dry mouth2,10
Sore tongue or dry mouth2,10
Cold intolerance8
Cold intolerance8
Unusual cravings for non-food items such as dirt and ice2,9.
Unusual cravings for non-food items such as dirt and ice2,9.
Shortness of breath2
Shortness of breath2
Restless Leg Syndrome3,5
Restless Leg Syndrome3,5
Paleness2
Paleness2
Cracks and ulcers in your mouth6
Cracks and ulcers in your mouth6
Hair loss3
Hair loss3
Dizziness, irritability and loss of concentration2,4
Dizziness, irritability and loss of concentration2,4
Increased susceptibility to infection9
Increased susceptibility to infection9
Fatigue1,2
Fatigue1,2
Headaches2
Headaches2
Brittle or spooned-shaped nails2,7
Brittle or spooned-shaped nails2,7
Symptom checker Women

References:

  1. Wood MM, Elwood PC. Symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia: A community survey. Br J Prev Soc Med 1966;20:117-121.
  2. Mayo Clinic. Iron Deficiency Anaemia. Symptoms and Causes. [online] [cited 2017 July 25]. Available from: URL: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/iron-deficiency-anemia/symptoms-causes/dxc-20266514.
  3. Stein J, Dignass A. Management of iron deficiency anemia in inflammatory bowel disease – a practical approach. Ann Gastroenterol 2012;26(2):1-7.
  4. Radlowski EC, Johnson RW. Perinatal iron deficiency and neurocognitive development. Front Hum Neurosci 2013;7:1-11.
  5. Sun ER, Chen CA, Ho G, Earley CJ, Allen RP.Iron and the restless legs syndrome. Sleep 1998;21(4):371-377.
  6. Scully C. ABC of oral health: Mouth ulcers and other causes of orofacial soreness and pain. BMJ 2000;321(7254):162-165.
  7. Cashman MW, Sloan SB. Nutrition and nail disease. Clin Dermatol 2010;28(4):420-425.
  8. World Health Organisation. Iron deficiency anaemia. Assessment, prevention and control. [online] 2001 [cited 2017 Aug 1]. Available from: URL: http://www.who.int/nutrition/publications/micronutrients/anaemia_iron_deficiency/WHO_NHD_01.3/en/.
  9. Beard JL. Iron biology in Immune Function, Muscle Metabolism and Neuronal Functioning. J Nutr 2001;131(2):568S-580S.
  10. Wu YC, Wang YP, Chang JY, Cheng SJ, Chen HM, Sun A. Oral manifestations and blood profile in patients with iron deficiency anemia. J Formos Med Assoc 2014;113(2):83-87
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