Signs of Iron Deficiency

Iron helps your body make hemoglobin (which carries oxygen in your blood) and supports healthy iron stores
(often measured as ferritin). When iron is low, symptoms can show up slowly—and they don’t always
look the same for everyone.

Common Signs of Low Iron

• Ongoing fatigue or low energy, even after rest
• Weakness or feeling run down
• Shortness of breath, especially with stairs or light activity
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headaches or frequent “pressure” headaches
• Pale skin or looking more washed out than usual
• Heart palpitations (feeling like your heart is racing or pounding)
• Cold hands and feet

Hair, Skin, and Nail Changes

Iron and ferritin are important for tissues that grow quickly—like hair and nails. If levels are low, you may notice:

• Hair thinning or increased shedding
• Brittle nails or nails that split easily
• Dry skin or changes in skin texture

Note: Hair changes often lag behind low iron levels and may take time to improve even after treatment.

Brain Fog, Mood, and Focus

Because iron supports oxygen delivery, low iron can affect how you feel day-to-day:

• Brain fog or trouble concentrating
• Low motivation or feeling mentally “slower” than usual
• Irritability or mood changes

Symptoms Often Noticed in Women

In women’s health, Iron deficiency is common, especially with heavy periods, postpartum recovery, and during
perimenopause and menopause. Some women notice:

• Worsening fatigue around menstrual cycles
• Increased hair shedding over time
• Reduced exercise tolerance (getting winded more easily)

Less Common (But Important) Signs

• Restless legs, especially at night
• Craving non-food items (ice, clay, or starch) — sometimes called pica
• Sore tongue or mouth irritation

When to Get Checked

If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms—especially fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, or hair shedding — It’s worth discussing blood work with your provider. Testing may include hemoglobin and iron studies, such as ferritin.

Tip: Symptoms can happen even before anemia is present, so it’s possible to feel unwell even if
hemoglobin is “normal.”

If low iron is confirmed and supplements aren’t enough, IV iron infusion may be an option to rebuild iron stores
more efficiently under medical supervision.