Iron deficiency
The importance of iron
Iron is a mineral that your body receives from the food you eat. Your body needs iron to make red blood cells, which carry oxygen to your organs. If you aren't getting enough iron, or you're losing too much iron, you can develop iron deficiency. Heavy menstrual bleeding is one of the most common causes of iron deficiency.
Heme
Hemoglobin
Red blood cell
Oxygen
Iron
Iron from diet
Red blood cells deliver oxygen to organs
Iron Deficiency
Red blood cells lost to heavy menstrual bleeding
Red blood cells recycled in the spleen
Signs and symptoms of iron deficiency:
Fatigue
Pale skin
Brittle/grooved nails
Dizziness
Weakness
Hair loss
Pica...
The uncontrollable urge to
eat things that are not food, like
dirt, soap, or ice.
Restless leg syndrome
Iron deficiency anemia
Red blood cells are the richest source of iron in the body. Over time, iron deficiency can lead to a decrease in red blood cells. This condition is called iron deficiency anemia.
Less iron
Less red blood cells made
Less red blood cells in circulation
Red blood cells lost to heavy menstrual bleeding
Iron deficiency anemia
Less iron = Less red blood cells
More iron = More red blood cells
Signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anemia:
You may experience all of the signs and symptoms of iron deficiency in addition to the following:
Shortness of breath when exercising
Chest pain or pressure when exercising
Fainting