Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common types of anemia occurs as a result of the body iron deficiency. This condition results in a decrease in the number of healthy red blood cells in the body.
Iron is an important mineral that the body needs to produce one of the components of red blood cells, namely hemoglobin. Hemoglobin itself is a protein that functions to transport oxygen to be distributed throughout the body's tissues.
When the body lacks iron, the body cannot produce enough hemoglobin so that the red blood cells lack hemoglobin. As a result, the supply of oxygen in the blood is reduced and the body does not get enough oxygen. This can cause weakness, fatigue, and even shortness of breath.
Iron deficiency anemia in pregnant women can interfere with fetal and infant development. In addition, this condition also increases the risk of premature birth, infectious diseases, to maternal and child mortality.
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia, which is about 50% of all types of anemia.
Causes and Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia
The causes of iron deficiency anemia vary. This condition often occurs in people who have the following conditions:
- Less consumption of foods that contain iron
- Cannot absorb iron optimally
- Bleeding
- Are pregnant so need more iron
Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia can be difficult to detect if the degree is still mild. However, this condition can be characterized by feeling tired, weak, dizzy, decreased appetite, and a faster or pounding heart rate.
How to treat and prevent iron deficiency anemia
Iron deficiency anemia is generally easy to treat. Treatment aims to restore the iron levels needed by the body and treat the underlying cause.
In order for iron levels in the body to return to normal, patients will be advised to increase iron intake, for example by consuming red meat and dark green vegetables and iron supplements.
Meanwhile, the treatment of the underlying cause of iron deficiency anemia depends on the type of disease. If the cause is heavy bleeding and a very low hemoglobin level, your doctor may order a red blood cell transfusion.
Iron deficiency anemia can be prevented by eating foods rich in iron, such as meat, egg yolks, and milk. In addition, consumption of foods or drinks that contain vitamin C can also increase the process of iron absorption.