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Learn about iron-deficiency anemia from the Office on Women’s Health.

After being diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia, it is important to follow your treatment plan, such as taking prescribed iron supplements. You should monitor your condition for new or worsening symptoms. Your doctor may want to repeat blood tests to check that your anemia is improving.

Treatment for iron-deficiency anemia will depend on its cause and severity. Treatments may include iron supplements, red blood cell transfusions, changes in your eating pattern, or procedures like endoscopy to stop bleeding.

To diagnose iron-deficiency anemia, your doctor may do a physical exam, or order blood tests or other diagnostic tests. Blood tests will show a low hemoglobin level and low level of iron in your blood.

Iron-deficiency anemia can range from mild to severe. People with mild or moderate iron-deficiency anemia may not have any signs or symptoms. Common signs and symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia include pale skin, fatigue and shortness of breath. Complications of iron-deficiency anemia include heart problems such as arrhythmias and depression.

To screen for iron-deficiency anemia your doctor may order a blood test called a complete blood count (CBC). Prevention of iron-deficiency anemia includes consuming enough iron and controlling other medical conditions that are risk factors for iron-deficiency anemia.

Risk factors for iron-deficiency anemia include being of certain age groups, some unhealthy environmental factors, family history and genetics, being female, and certain lifestyle habits such as vegetarianism.

Causes of iron-deficiency anemia include blood loss, consuming too little iron, problems absorbing iron, and certain medical conditions.