How is iron deficiency anemia diagnosed?

Written by He Li Fang
Hematology
Updated on September 15, 2024
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The diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia includes two aspects: one is to establish whether there is anemia caused by iron deficiency, and the other is to clarify the cause of the iron deficiency. First, we need to carefully inquire and analyze the medical history, combined with the patient's physical examination, which can provide a series of clues for diagnosing iron deficiency anemia. A definitive diagnosis also requires laboratory evidence. Clinically, we can divide iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia into three stages: iron deficiency, iron-deficient erythropoiesis, and iron deficiency anemia. The following describes the diagnostic criteria for iron deficiency anemia specifically. Iron deficiency anemia is characterized by a significant reduction in hemoglobin in red blood cells, presenting as microcytic hypochromic anemia. Its diagnostic basis includes three aspects: first, conforming to the diagnosis of iron deficiency and iron-deficient erythropoiesis; second, having microcytic hypochromic anemia; and third, effective treatment with iron supplements. These three factors together can confirm the diagnosis of this disease.

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Written by Li Guo Bao
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Can iron deficiency anemia be cured?

Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common types of anemia clinically. The principle of treating iron deficiency anemia involves etiological treatment and symptomatic treatment. Etiological treatment means treating according to different causes, while symptomatic treatment involves correcting anemia and supplementing the raw materials for blood formation. The most common causes of iron deficiency anemia include gastrointestinal bleeding, internal hemorrhoids bleeding, hookworm and roundworm infections, malnutrition, and, notably in women, excessive menstrual bleeding and excessive bleeding during pregnancy and childbirth. These are common causes of iron deficiency anemia seen clinically. With the cause of iron deficiency anemia identified, the treatment often has a relatively high cure rate.

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Written by He Li Fang
Hematology
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Diet for Iron Deficiency Anemia

Patients with iron-deficiency anemia need to undergo pharmacological treatment with oral or injective iron supplements. In addition, patient health education should be enhanced to guide them in following a scientific and reasonable diet. For example, patients who are picky eaters or have insufficient intake should change their dietary structure and lifestyle in order to increase iron intake and bioavailability. This ensures that all key nutrients involved in the production of red blood cells are sufficient. Moreover, it is necessary to increase the intake of iron-rich foods, mainly including animal liver, blood, as well as soybeans, black fungus, egg yolks, brown sugar, lean meat, sheep kidneys, dried fruits, and sesame paste.

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Written by Zhang Xiao Le
Hematology
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Does iron deficiency anemia cause tiredness?

Patients with iron-deficiency anemia can exhibit symptoms of fatigue. Anemia is characterized by red blood cells and hemoglobin levels that are below the normal range. Red blood cells are the main cells responsible for transporting oxygen in the body. Oxygen enters the blood through gas exchange in the lungs and is then delivered throughout the body by red blood cells to supply oxygen. Therefore, patients with anemia will show varying degrees of ischemia and hypoxia. In the nervous system, this can be manifested as lethargy, insomnia, frequent dreaming, tinnitus, blurry vision, fainting, and lack of concentration. As the severity of anemia increases, these symptoms may also worsen. Patients with severe anemia may exhibit significant lethargy and drowsiness.

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Written by He Li Fang
Hematology
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How long should iron supplements be taken for iron deficiency anemia?

First, it's important to understand that in treating iron deficiency anemia, addressing the underlying cause is the top priority. It's crucial to eliminate the causes of iron deficiency as much as possible. Solely supplementing with iron can only restore the blood picture, and neglecting the treatment of the primary illness will not lead to a thorough treatment of the anemia. Once the medication for anemia is stopped, it can easily relapse. So how long should iron supplements be taken for iron deficiency anemia? Generally, after patients start taking iron supplements, they can quickly feel an improvement in symptoms. The reticulocyte count tends to rise within three to four days after starting the supplements, reaching a peak around seven days. Hemoglobin shows a significant increase two weeks after starting the medication and can return to normal levels within one to two months. However, even after hemoglobin returns to normal, iron treatment should continue until the serum ferritin level has returned to 50 micrograms per liter before stopping the medication. If it's not possible to monitor serum ferritin, then iron supplements should be continued for three more months after hemoglobin has normalized, to replenish the body's iron stores. Therefore, the treatment of iron deficiency anemia with iron supplements generally lasts for three to six months.

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Pediatrics
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Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia in babies

Any age can develop the disease, but it is most commonly seen between six months and two years old, with a relatively slow onset. Generally, there is a gradual pallor of the skin and mucous membranes, most notably in the eyes, lips, oral mucosa, and nail beds. Affected children tend to be fatigued and less active, and older children may experience symptoms such as dizziness and darkening before the eyes. Physical examination may reveal enlargement of the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes; the more severe the anemia, the more pronounced the enlargement. Anemia can lead to a decreased appetite, and in some cases, pica, such as a craving to eat non-food items like soil or walls, may occur. Symptoms may also include vomiting, diarrhea, glossitis, and stomatitis. There is a general listlessness, lack of concentration, impaired memory, and intelligence that may be lower than peers of the same age. Iron deficiency anemia can also lead to decreased cellular immune function, making infections more likely.