Dr. Nimra Ali • Healthcare Ecosystem
Iron Deficiency Anemia: Signs and Treatment
Iron deficiency anemia affects 50% of Pakistani women. Learn the symptoms, diagnosis, and effective treatment strategies.
A National Health Crisis
Iron deficiency anemia affects nearly half of all women and children in Pakistan. It's caused by poor dietary iron intake, repeated pregnancies, and parasitic infections.
Key Symptoms
- Persistent fatigue and weakness
- Pale skin, especially inner eyelids and nail beds
- Shortness of breath on mild exertion
- Brittle nails, hair loss
- Craving for non-food items (pica)
Treatment
Oral iron supplements (ferrous sulfate) taken with vitamin C enhance absorption. Dietary sources include red meat, spinach, lentils, and dates. Severe cases may require IV iron therapy.