Iron-deficiency anaemia

Iron-deficiency anaemia is a lack of healthy red blood cells due to low iron, causing tiredness, pale skin and breathlessness. It's treated by finding and addressing the cause and replacing iron through diet or supplements.

Symptoms

  • Tiredness and weakness
  • Pale skin
  • Breathlessness
  • Dizziness
  • Brittle nails or hair changes

When to see a doctor

  • Ongoing tiredness, pallor or breathlessness
  • Heavy periods or any sign of gut bleeding
  • Before taking long-term iron supplements

FAQs

Why is finding the cause important?

Replacing iron treats the anaemia, but the underlying cause (like heavy periods or gut bleeding) must be found and addressed so it doesn't return or hide a more serious problem.