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Worldwide, Iron Deficiency Anaemia is the most common kind of anaemia. Iron deficiency anaemia occurs when the body does not have enough iron to make sufficient haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen. With low levels of haemoglobin, insufficient oxygen reaches the organs and tissues; thus, they function poorly. The organs and tissues can't work properly and have less energy.

The condition can be caused by poor dietary intake of iron, persistent blood loss, heavy menstruation, gastrointestinal problems, pregnancy, or poor absorption of iron. The categories at most risk are infants, young children, adolescent girls, pregnant women and the elderly.

Typical symptoms include excessive fatigue, weakness and pallor, dizziness, shortness of breath, headaches, cold hands and feet, brittle nails and difficulty concentrating. In severe cases, you may experience chest pain, a racing heart, or restless legs.

Diagnosis consists of a CBC, serum ferritin, serum iron, transferrin saturation, and other iron assays to confirm iron deficiency and estimate its severity.
Treatment includes diagnosing and treating the underlying cause and restoring iron stores using iron-rich foods, oral iron supplements, or intravenous iron therapy, as needed. Red meat, spinach, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals can raise iron. Most people diagnosed early and appropriately managed recover completely and do not have long-term repercussions.