Consequences of iron deficiency

Iron is an essential mineral for the proper functioning of our body. Its role is so important that it plays a part in blood formation and cell replication from gestation, favoring the growth of organs and tissues in the baby.

Therefore, iron deficiency can lead to complications from birth or manifest in adulthood through various ailments and diseases.

The problem with iron deficiency is that it tends to be a silent condition, making it difficult to detect until its consequences begin to appear. Undergoing regular medical check-ups and following the instructions of specialists in cases of iron deficiency is essential to maintain good health.

 

4 consequences of iron deficiency:

Iron-deficiency anemia

This is the most common type of anemia and is caused by a lack of iron. It results in a failure in the production of red blood cells and a decrease in hemoglobin, a protein responsible for transporting oxygen to tissues. Consequently, if an insufficient number of red blood cells are produced, organs and tissues do not receive adequate oxygen supply for their proper functioning.

Iron-deficiency anemia can be caused by various factors, such as:

• Poor nutrition.
• Prolonged bleeding due to menstruation.
• Prolonged use of medications (such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and similar drugs).
• Cancer, varicose veins, ulcers in the esophagus or stomach, and other digestive problems that cause bleeding throughout the gastrointestinal tract (esophagus, stomach, colon, and small intestine).

Iron-deficiency anemia can lead to fatigue, hair loss, headaches, brittle nails, difficulty breathing, among other consequences. Suffering from this condition during pregnancy can compromise fetal development, increase the risk of premature birth, and result in a low birth weight of the newborn.

 

Weakening of the immune system

Iron deficiency compromises the functioning of the immune system, which acts as the body’s defense against various diseases. A weakened immune system is not capable of protecting the body against multiple conditions, such as colds or recurrent infections. Additionally, it can worsen pre-existing diseases.

 

Cognitive and physical development problems

Iron deficiency during childhood and adolescence can cause learning difficulties, lack of concentration, anemia, etc. All of this could directly impact the physical and educational performance of the child or adolescent, affecting their overall development into adulthood.

 

Muscle weakness and fatigue

Iron deficiency can also manifest as tiredness and muscle weakness due to insufficient oxygen reaching the tissues. This affects performance in daily activities, cognitive function, and sports performance.

Iron deficiency can have long-term negative effects on health. It is a condition that can affect anyone at any stage of life, which is why it is important to monitor iron levels with medical professionals and, if iron deficiency is present, to consistently follow the prescribed treatment or supplementation to overcome this issue.

Source:

Olivares M y Walter T. Consecuencias de la deficiencia de hierro. Revista chilena de nutrición. 2023; 30(3): 226-233.