Iron deficiency can lead to many serious health problems and diseases like anemia. Anemia is perhaps one of the most well known iron deficiency diseases. It occurs when bone marrow lacks of sufficient iron to produce hemoglobin in healthy red blood cells. Patients who suffer from anemia will have smaller and fewer red blood cells than normal person. The lack of healthy red blood cells will lead to reduced oxygen supply to body’s organs. Eventually, organ failure and death may occur.

            Excessive bleeding can cause iron deficiency. Therefore, women are especially vulnerable during menstruation. The studies show that women are ten time likely as men to have iron deficiency during menstruation. Proper diet and iron supplements can prevent iron deficiency. Some of the iron rich foods are green leafy vegetables, tofu, beans, all types of meats. However, if you have malabsorption problem, you should consult your health care professional for further help.

            Symptoms of iron deficiency are light headedness, fatigue, pale appearance, irritably, shortness of breath. Symptoms of serious iron deficiency like anemia are iron def ringing in the ears, fainting, numbness, or visual hallucinations. If you experience these symptoms, you should talk to your doctor. If iron deficiency is left untreated, it can be life threatening. But, it can be prevented with early treatment.