Anemia/Iron Deficiency in Dallas, TX

A shortage of oxygen can present as a number of iron deficiency complications. The most typical symptoms of iron deficiency anemia could include:

• Fast heartbeat (tachycardia)
• Cold hands and feet
• Fatigue that cannot be explained
• Shortness of breath or pain in one's chest
• Loss of appetite
• A lack of strength
• Hair loss
• Sore or smooth tongue
• Pain in one's head
• Brittle nails
• Craving for ice or clay (pagophagia)
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Paleness of the skin

Iron deficiency anemia should never be self-diagnosed, and taking iron supplements without medical supervision might be detrimental. Help is available for iron deficiency in Dallas, TX. Consult with a doctor if you experience any combination of the above symptoms consistently. If you or someone you love is suffering from these symptoms, we encourage you to call a local Digestive Health Associates of Texas practice and ask about investigating the possibility of iron deficiency.

Treatments for iron deficiency anemia are extremely straightforward, and their primary goal is to increase the amount of iron in the body. It is important to note, however, that some other conditions and/or medications could interfere with the absorption of iron. The most frequently used treatments for iron deficiency anemia include:

• Surgery or treatment for internal bleeding
• Treatment for diseases that impact absorption, like Celiac disease or Crohn's disease
• Use of oral contraceptives for reduction of menstrual bleeding
• Taking iron supplements on an empty stomach
• Taking antibiotics for treatment of peptic ulcers
• Eating more iron-rich foods
• Swallowing iron tablets without antacids
• Taking iron tablets at the same time as vitamin C

Iron-rich foods:

• Legumes
• Poultry
• Dried fruit
• Leafy greens
• Beans
• Beef or other red meat
• Seafood
• Pork

Vitamin C-rich foods (to help with iron absorption):

• Tomatoes
• Melons
• Broccoli
• Kiwi
• Oranges
• Leafy greens
• Grapefruit