NHS GP Dr Amir Khan has issued an urgent health alert, detailing five crucial warning signs that could indicate iron deficiency anaemia, a widespread condition impacting millions across the United Kingdom. In a recent educational clip titled '5 Signs you may be iron deficient', Dr Khan emphasised that this form of anaemia is the most common type, occurring when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce haemoglobin.
Understanding Iron Deficiency Anaemia
Dr Khan explained that haemoglobin is the vital substance in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. "Normally, your body maintains a steady supply of iron from dietary sources, storing excess for future haemoglobin production," he stated. "However, if iron intake is inadequate or losses exceed replacement rates, deficiency develops."
Common Causes and Vulnerable Groups
The GP highlighted several frequent causes, including insufficient dietary iron and blood loss through heavy menstrual periods. "Ladies, heavy periods are not normal; seek medical advice from your clinician," Dr Khan urged. Other triggers include gastrointestinal conditions like celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease, while in some instances, iron deficiency anaemia may signal underlying cancers.
According to NHS guidance, women experiencing menstruation—especially those with heavy flow—are particularly susceptible, alongside pregnant individuals. The American Society of Haematology notes that iron is essential for numerous bodily functions beyond haemoglobin production, including immune system support, muscle maintenance, and healthy skin, hair, and nails.
Vegetarians, vegans, and people following diets low in iron-rich foods face increased risk, as do those who have undergone bariatric procedures like gastric bypass surgery. Internal bleeding within the stomach and intestines represents another common cause of this deficiency.
Dr Khan's Five Warning Signs
1. Persistent Tiredness
Iron facilitates the production of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to organs. Without adequate iron, oxygen transport diminishes, depriving the body of vital energy and resulting in chronic fatigue.
2. Shortness of Breath and Chest Pain
When haemoglobin levels drop due to iron deficiency, oxygen levels typically decrease. This forces muscles to work harder during routine activities like walking, increasing breathing rates and causing breathlessness. The heart also strains to circulate available oxygen, potentially leading to chest discomfort.
3. Mouth Corner Cracks (Angular Cheilitis)
Iron plays a key role in skin health and wound healing. Deficiency can cause painful sores or cracks at the corners of the mouth, a condition medically termed angular cheilitis.
4. Brittle or Spoon-Shaped Nails (Koilonychia)
This symptom involves nails becoming concave or spoon-shaped instead of growing flat, known as koilonychia, indicating possible iron deficiency.
5. Restless Legs Syndrome
Iron deficiency can reduce dopamine levels in the blood, contributing to restless legs syndrome. This condition involves an irresistible urge to move the legs while at rest, often accompanied by unpleasant crawling or itching sensations in the feet and legs, typically worsening at night and disrupting sleep.
Dietary Sources and Medical Advice
Dr Khan recommended iron-rich foods such as liver, red meat, and shellfish for non-vegetarians, while suggesting legumes and pumpkin seeds as excellent alternatives for vegetarians. However, he stressed that anyone concerned about iron deficiency anaemia should consult a healthcare professional promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment.
