The ferritin test measures the amount of iron-storing protein in the blood. High levels indicate excess iron, while low levels suggest iron deficiency. Causes of low ferritin levels include anemia, liver disease, and malnutrition. Symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, and pale skin. Treatment options include dietary changes and iron supplements. It is important to treat low ferritin levels quickly to avoid serious health problems.
Ferritin is a protein in the body that stores and releases iron. A ferritin test, or iron test, measures the amount of ferritin in the blood. High levels mean the body is storing too much iron. Low ferritin levels indicate an iron deficiency.
There are many causes of iron deficiency that lead to abnormally low ferritin levels. Iron deficiency anemia is the most common cause of low levels. Other causes may include liver disease, hypothyroidism, acute hepatitis, long-term digestive tract bleeding, and malnutrition. If a woman has abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding, ferritin levels may be low.
Iron deficiency and low ferritin levels are linked, so the symptoms are the same. Dizziness, tiredness and headaches are common. People may also experience loss of appetite, pale skin or eye color, irritability, and brittle nails. In more rare cases, an urge to eat non-food items or compulsive ice-eating has been reported.
When symptoms occur, doctors will first order a blood test. If smaller red blood cell counts and hemoglobin levels appear low, this leads to a ferritin test along with other iron tests. The results of this test usually lead to a diagnosis of iron deficiency because ferritin levels are below the normal range.
Low ferritin levels are measured by the ferritin test, which is very similar to a standard blood test. In some cases, it may be necessary to test more than once. As iron levels drop, iron stores begin to adjust as they try to replace iron. Another second test would show a decrease, albeit minimal.
There are several methods used to treat low ferritin and iron deficiency. The first is a change in dietary needs. Increasing iron-rich foods helps in two ways. Iron-rich foods, such as soybeans, spinach and broccoli, help raise iron levels naturally, while also increasing the amount of iron stored in the protein ferritin.
Adding supplements is another way to treat low ferritin levels. Iron supplements, such as ferrous sulfate, are available both over-the-counter and by prescription. Many doctors recommend taking vitamin C supplements with iron supplements. Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron.
It is important to treat low ferritin levels quickly. Iron deficiency causes red blood cell problems. When the body doesn’t have enough iron, it can’t make red blood cells. This reduces the amount of oxygen and nutrients distributed throughout the body from the blood. If low iron isn’t treated, serious problems can occur, such as heart problems.
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