Symptoms of Iron Deficiency in Children

Iron deficiency  anemia is a common health problem in children. If your child is experiencing a lack of energy, it may be due to iron deficiency and requires consultation from your pediatrician. In this blog, we will discuss important topics such as the symptoms of iron deficiency in newborn and what exactly iron deficiency is. To learn more about anemia and receive the best care for your child, visit the best Paediatric Hospital in Noida.  Let’s see what our expert pediatrician Dr Vishrut Singh has to say about this.

If your child is suffering from iron deficiency, contact Felix Hospital in Noida at +91 9667064100.

What is Iron Deficiency Anemia?

Iron-deficiency anemia occurs when there isn't enough iron in the body. This condition results in a lower number of red blood cells (RBCs) than usual. RBCs contain hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen throughout the body. The body needs iron to produce hemoglobin. Without sufficient iron, the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells decreases, leading to anemia.

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency in Children

Iron deficiency anemia may go unnoticed in its early stages because symptoms are often mild or non-specific. However, as the deficiency progresses, it can lead to more pronounced signs and symptoms such as:

Fatigue and overall lack of energy:

• Why: Due to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood, leading to reduced energy production in cells.
• Example: Feeling tired easily during routine activities like climbing stairs or doing household chores.

Poor appetite:

• Why: A lack of appetite can result from alterations in taste and smell and ghrelin hormone alterations, common in anemia.
• Example: Not feeling hungry even after not eating for several hours.

Eating non-food items (pica):

• Why: Some people with anemia crave non-food items like ice, dirt, chalk or clay, which can indicate an iron deficiency.
• Example: Feeling a strong urge to chew ice or eat unusual substances not normally consumed as food.

Irritability or fussiness:

• Why: Changes in brain function due to reduced oxygen supply can lead to mood changes.
• Example: Easily getting upset or frustrated over minor issues.

Pale skin:

• Why: Reduced hemoglobin levels result in less red colour in the blood, making the skin appear paler.
• Example: Noticing a visibly lighter complexion compared to usual.

Brittle nails:

  - Why: Poor blood circulation and reduced oxygen delivery to tissues can weaken nails.
  - Example: Nails becoming fragile, prone to breaking or splitting.

Cold hands and feet:

• Why: Decreased blood flow to extremities due to low hemoglobin levels affects temperature regulation.
• Example: Feeling excessively cold in hands and feet even in warm environments.

Cracks on the side of the mouth:

• Why: Known as angular cheilitis, it can result from both iron and vitamin B deficiencies.
• Example: Experiencing painful cracks or sores at the corners of the mouth.

Headaches:

• Why: Decreased oxygen to the brain can trigger headaches.
• Example: Experiencing frequent or persistent headaches.

Dizziness:

• Why: Insufficient oxygen delivery to the brain affects balance and can lead to dizziness.
• Example: Feeling light-headed or unsteady, especially when standing up quickly.

Rapid breathing and/or shortness of breath:

• Why: The body compensates for low oxygen levels by increasing breathing rate.
• Example: Feeling out of breath with minimal exertion, like walking short distances.

Fast heartbeat:

• Why: Anemia can cause the heart to beat faster to try to distribute oxygen more efficiently.
• Example: Noticing a rapid or irregular heartbeat, especially during rest.

These symptoms can vary in severity depending on the degree of anemia and individual health factors. If you suspect you or someone else may have anemia based on these symptoms, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Doctors for Anemia at Felix hospital

Dr. Niraj Kumar is a seasoned pediatrician and neonatology specialist with over 11 years of experience. His expertise includes infant and child nutrition, childhood infections, limping child, child development disease treatment, thyroid disease in newborn, growth and development evaluation/management, and vaccination/immunization.

Dr. Prabhat Kumar, with 9 years of experience, specializes in infectious diseases, general pediatrics, and growth and development. He is well-versed in treating various childhood illnesses and teenage health issues.

Dr. Divya Gupta, a pediatrician and pediatric surgeon with 12 years of experience, focuses on thyroid disease in newborn, growth and development evaluation/management, vaccination/immunization, child vaccination, and newborn care. She offers expert consultation for childhood illnesses, immunizations, and vaccinations.

Dr. Vishrut Singh, with over 11 years of experience, is a dedicated pediatrician specializing in diagnosing and treating various pediatric conditions. He provides personalized care and tailored treatment plans to enhance patient health and meet individual needs.

Contact Felix Hospital in Noida today at +91 9667064100 for expert care and treatment.

 

Conclusion

Iron deficiency anemia in newborns can manifest through a variety of symptoms, often subtle at first but becoming more pronounced as the deficiency worsens. Recognizing these signs early and seeking medical attention is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in iron and consulting with healthcare professionals can help manage and prevent iron deficiency. If you observe any of these symptoms in your newborn, seek comprehensive care and guidance from the top Child Specialist in Noida.

FAQs 

1.) What happens when your iron is low?
When your iron levels are low, your body can't produce enough hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, pale skin, brittle nails, and cold hands and feet. If left untreated, iron deficiency can progress to iron-deficiency anemia, a more severe condition that requires medical attention.

2.) How to fix iron deficiency?

To fix iron deficiency, you can:

• Increase Iron Intake: Consume more iron-rich foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, spinach, and fortified cereals.
• Iron Supplements: Take iron supplements as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
• Vitamin C: Enhance iron absorption by including vitamin C-rich foods (like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and broccoli) in your diet.
• Avoid Inhibitors: Limit foods and drinks that inhibit iron absorption, such as coffee, tea, and high-calcium foods, during iron-rich meals.

3.) What drinks are high in iron?

Drinks themselves are generally not high in iron, but some can help improve iron absorption:

• Smoothies: Made with spinach, kale, and fruits rich in vitamin C like strawberries and oranges.
• Fortified Juices: Some orange juices are fortified with iron.
• Beetroot Juice: While not very high in iron, it can boost red blood cell production.

4.) How to boost iron immediately?

To boost iron levels immediately:

• Consume Iron-Rich Foods: Include liver, red meat, poultry, fish, lentils, and spinach in your meals.
• Pair with Vitamin C: Eat foods high in vitamin C alongside iron-rich foods to enhance absorption.
• Iron Supplements: Taking iron supplements as directed by a healthcare provider can quickly improve iron levels.

5.) What food is highest in iron?

• Red Meat: Beef, lamb, and liver are particularly high in iron.
• Seafood: Oysters, clams, and shrimp.
• Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and beans.
• Leafy Greens: Spinach and Swiss chard.
• Nuts and Seeds: Pumpkin seeds, cashews, and sunflower seeds.
• Fortified Foods: Cereals, bread, and pasta.

6.) How to check iron levels at home?

At-home tests for checking iron levels include:

• Home Test Kits: Available online or at pharmacies, these kits typically involve a finger prick to collect a small blood sample, which you then send to a lab for analysis.
• Observing Symptoms: Noticing symptoms like extreme fatigue, pallor, and shortness of breath can indicate low iron levels, but these are not definitive without a blood test.

7.) What is a normal iron level?

Normal iron levels can vary, but generally:

• Serum Iron: 60-170 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL).
• Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC): 240-450 mcg/dL.
• Ferritin: 
• Men: 20-500 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).
• Women: 20-200 ng/mL.
   

It's important to get tested by a healthcare provider to understand your specific levels.

8.) Are eggs high in iron?
Eggs contain some iron, but they are not considered a high-iron food. One large egg has about 0.9 mg of iron. While eggs are nutritious, other sources like red meat, seafood, legumes, and leafy greens provide higher iron content.

9.) Is 7 iron levels low?
Yes, a serum iron level of 7 mcg/dL is considered very low and indicates iron deficiency. Normal levels range from 60-170 mcg/dL, so a level of 7 mcg/dL would typically be associated with significant iron deficiency anemia and would require medical evaluation and treatment.