Diseases

Iron Deficiency

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Iron deficiency anemia is a common type of anemia — a condition in which blood lacks adequate healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body's tissues. As the name implies, iron deficiency anemia is due to insufficient iron.

SYMPTOMS

Whole body: dizziness, fatigue, or light-headedness
Heart: fast heart rate or palpitations
Also common: brittle nails, pallor, or shortness of breath

CAUSES

Low, chronic blood loss within the body — such as from a peptic ulcer, a hiatal hernia, a colon polyp or colorectal cancer — can cause iron deficiency anemia. Gastrointestinal bleeding can result from regular use of some over-the-counter pain relievers, especially aspirin. A lack of iron in your diet.