Iron Deficiency Symptoms In Anorexia
How Is Iron Deficiency Treated In Eating Disorders?

Iron deficiency symptoms, or signs of iron deficiency in anorexia and other eating disorders, are often due to a low red blood cell count as a result of self starvation, and lack of iron in the diet. It may also suggest chronic blood loss, or bowel problems from laxative abuse.

Iron is a critical nutrient because it responsible for removing carbon dioxide, and carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of our bodies.

In the average person, iron deficiency symptoms are almost always brought on by things such as heavy menstrual periods, ulcers, or certain types of cancer.

Some people are not aware of the fact that it is possible to have low iron levels (deficiency) without actually having iron deficiency anemia. Anemia is the advanced stage of iron deficiency.

When we consume iron rich foods, and our body has enough iron to perform its vital functions - (functional iron) - then anything that's left over is stored in the spleen, bone marrow and liver for later use - (stored iron).

If our bodies require more iron than what's being taken in, it will turn to its reserves (iron stores) for more. Once the body's stored iron is depleted, this results in anemia, which can be fatal if not treated properly.

Iron Deficiency Symptoms vs. Iron Deficiency Anemia Symptoms

Iron deficiency symptoms are not usually painful, although they can be annoying, sometimes alarming, and should be taken seriously.

There is some overlap between symptoms of iron deficiency and the symptoms that you see in someone who is anemic, but by the time iron depletion reaches the stage of anemia, the signs are usually more obvious and occur more frequently.

Some signs of iron deficiency are:

• Pale or yellowish skin coloring
• Fatigue
• Weakened immune system - catches colds or gets sick very easily
• Hair loss
• Irritable - short fuse, or quick to anger
• Pagophagia - eating ice, or iced drinks
• Pica Eating Disorder

For more information, compare the above list with more severe anemia symptoms.

Iron Deficiency Symptoms In Blood Test Results

If your doctor observes what appears to be iron deficiency symptoms, he/she will perform a series of tests, usually beginning with a blood test or full blood count. This will indicate how much iron is in the blood to see if there is in fact a deficiency.

They will also check to see how much iron is present in your iron stores, which will tell him/her whether or not you are anemic.

Some common results that you see from these lab work-ups are:

• Low serum iron - the amount if iron in the blood that is bound to plasma proteins
• Low ferritin levels - how much iron is stored

In some cases, a fecal test may show positive for blood, which is likely an indication of internal bleeding.

Iron Deficiency Treatment - Difficulty With Iron Absorption

The plan for iron deficiency treatment depends on the underlying cause. Iron supplements are effective, as long as iron absorption isn't a problem.

I had quite a struggle with this. For some reason, my body was not able to absorb the iron supplements that I was getting. It was my dietitian who helped me learn to combine foods high in iron with other foods that aid in the absorption of iron.

Doctors will usually check for other medical conditions, such as problems with bone marrow, internal bleeding, or cancer and put together a treatment plan based on those results.

It's important to remember that ongoing deficiency will lead to worsening of the symptoms mentioned above, and eventually to anemia. If you are concerned about any of these symptoms, consult a doctor as soon as possible.

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