Iron deficiency anemia is a common medical condition in childhood. The condition can have a significant impact on a child’s learning potential, energy level, attention span, and overall health. It is important for parents to be aware of the signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anemia.
Iron is a mineral your body needs. It helps the body produce red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body to your organs and tissues. When your red blood cell numbers are low, there is not enough oxygen for your body to function properly—that is called anemia.
What are the symptoms of iron deficiency anemia?
The following are common signs and symptoms that occur when the body is lacking iron:
- Feeling tired. All children may experience fatigue at one time or another. But when it becomes a pattern or your child shows an overall lack of energy, it may be cause for concern.
- Pale skin. An iron deficiency causes red blood cells to be smaller and paler due to the lack of oxygen they carry, resulting in pale skin and nail beds.
- Headache. Iron deficiency reduces the amount of oxygen in your blood. When your brain does not get enough oxygen, it can trigger headaches and migraines.
- Craving and eating ice, paper, or other non-food items. While the reason is unclear, some individuals with an iron deficiency or iron deficiency anemia may experience these cravings, also known as “pica."
How is iron deficiency anemia diagnosed?
If your child is experiencing some of the symptoms associated with iron deficiency, talk with your child’s doctor. A simple blood test can determine if your child has iron deficiency and/or anemia.
How is iron deficiency anemia treated?
If your child is diagnosed, your pediatrician will recommend an iron supplement. Iron supplements are available both by prescription and over the counter. They are available in a liquid or pill/tablet form. Talk to your child’s pediatrician about which is best for your child.
The doctor will also recommend a certain dosage and schedule. It’s important to take the supplement as instructed, which is usually daily or every other day. Never take an iron supplement with dairy or other drinks or foods that are high in calcium. Also, taking iron with juice or vitamin C will help your body to absorb it better.
What causes iron deficiency anemoa?
The most common causes of anemia due to a lack of iron are:
Dietary
We absorb iron from the foods we eat, and children need more iron than adults! A limited or “picky” diet is the most common cause of iron deficiency, so be sure your child is eating foods that are rich in iron, such as:
- Beans
- Lean meats, including chicken, turkey, beef, pork
- Liver
- Dried fruits, raisins, prunes, apricots, dates
- Eggs, including the yolk
- Vegetables, including spinach, kale, collard greens, broccoli, asparagus, watercress, Brussel sprouts
- Seafood and fish, including oysters, shrimp, tuna, and salmon
- Iron-fortified whole grain foods, including cereals, bread, rice, and pasta
- Nuts
Too much milk
Children absolutely need milk for their development; however, too much milk can contribute to iron deficiency. Children over 12 months of age should have no more than 16 ounces of milk per day.
Blood loss
A serious injury or menstruation are clear signs of blood loss. However, some medical conditions can cause blood loss that is not so obvious. Inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, or infections from parasites can also cause blood loss that contributes to iron deficiency.
Other medical conditions
Certain conditions such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease or long-term use of acid blocking medications (famotidine, omeprazole, lansoprazole, etc.) can affect the body’s ability to absorb enough iron from food.
How is iron deficiency anemia prevented?
Children should eat an iron-rich diet. In addition, they should have less than 16 ounces of milk per day and should also get the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C. Be sure to read food labels!
If your child is experiencing signs and symptoms of an iron deficiency, the pediatric hematologists at Hasbro Children’s Hospital are experts in caring for children with a variety of blood conditions. Learn more about us on our website.
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