Question 1

why is iron deficiency anemia a microcytic anemia?

Accepted Answer

Microcytic: Iron is needed in order for the body to produce hemoglobin (hb) -a substance in red blood cells (rbc) that enables them to carry oxygen.Without hb, RBC will not be able to transport blood to tissues. Microcytosis means the presence of rbcs with a MCV (volume of average rbc) less than normal--smaller rbc. In iron deficiency- there is decreased hb content within the rbc, so it is smaller /microcytic.

Question 2

i am a 34-yr-old female diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia two years ago. gi has not recommended colonoscopy. should i be concerned?

Accepted Answer

No: most females of child bearing age who are iron deficiency can attribute it to their menses. if you are not having GI symptoms or black or bloody stools, I would see that as appropriate.

Question 3

i haven't hit puberty and im 16, i had/have mild iron deficiency anemia, is this the reason why i haven't hit puberty? i have a poor apetite as well?

Accepted Answer

Not likely: Mild iron deficiency can cause a variety of symptoms by stopping puberty altogether is not one of them.The process requires the input of hormones & target tissue in the body. Failure to enter puberty by 14 in girls & 15 in boys requires an evaluation by a pediatric endocrinologist.Seek one out (and take some iron anyway).

Question 4

iron-deficiency anemia, is it a hereditary thing?

Accepted Answer

Possibly: There is a enzyme if I remember right called Tmprss6.  Mutations in this can cause iron deficiency.  I do not think it is available as a test yet.  It is being studied.

Question 5

can hemorrhoids be a cause of extreme iron deficiency anemia?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but so: Can colon cancer.  It depends on amount of bleeding, but hemorrhoids generally do not cause anemia.  Get it checked out.

Question 6

iron  deficiency anemia?

Accepted Answer

IDA: Lack of iron usually due to too much blood loss. At your age it is most likely due to menses.

Question 7

what causes iron deficiency anemia?

Accepted Answer

Low Iron: In women of reproductive age, one of the most common causes of iron deficiency is heavy periods.  There are other causes.  Blood loss, acute or chronic, can cause it as well.  To determine the cause, see a doctor for evaluation and appropriate testing and treatment.

Question 8

can iron deficiency anemia be a symptom of another problem?

Accepted Answer

Yes: There can be many reasons for iron deficiency anemia.  It is best to have an evaluation by a physician for possible causes.

Question 9

what are the consequences of not treating iron deficiency anemia?

Accepted Answer

Iron deficiency anem: Low iron makes you tired, pale, lightheaded, and short of breath. It can cause "pica" (craving something unusual). The most common symptom is munching ice. Additional symptoms include foggy thinking, poor hair and nail growth, itching, and restless legs. Pregnant women with low iron can have children with lower iq scores than if they had adequate iron stores.

Question 10

can you suggest a unique and interesting name for my project on iron deficiency anemia?

Accepted Answer

? Pumping Iron: You're  pumping up your blood when you make sure you get enough iron!  Just a thought ... hope you get more/better suggestions!  Good luck!

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Doctor answers about:

Iron deficiency anemia and styes

A member asked:

Why is iron deficiency anemia a microcytic anemia?

A member asked:

I am a 34-yr-old female diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia two years ago. gi has not recommended colonoscopy. should i be concerned?

A member asked:

I haven't hit puberty and im 16, i had/have mild iron deficiency anemia, is this the reason why i haven't hit puberty? i have a poor apetite as well?

A member asked:

Iron-deficiency anemia, is it a hereditary thing?

A member asked:

Can hemorrhoids be a cause of extreme iron deficiency anemia?

A member asked:

Iron deficiency anemia?

A member asked:

What causes iron deficiency anemia?

A member asked:

Can iron deficiency anemia be a symptom of another problem?

A member asked:

What are the consequences of not treating iron deficiency anemia?

A member asked:

Can you suggest a unique and interesting name for my project on iron deficiency anemia?

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