Diagnosis
The diagnosis of iron deficiency is made simply by taking a blood sample. The serum iron and the storage iron are determined in the blood. Furthermore, the blood count is checked for anemia.
Here the classic finding would be a reduced number of red blood cells with small cells (microcytic anaemia). In order to better determine the cause of iron deficiency, a number of other parameters can be determined from the blood. The diagnosis can be supplemented by a blood or bone marrow smear.
I recognize iron deficiency in my child by these symptoms
The symptoms of iron deficiency are usually caused by iron deficiency anemia. These include: rapid fatigue or reduced ability to work under stress paleness shortness of breath under stress rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) headaches dizziness Other signs of iron deficiency are: cracked corners of the mouth (mouth rhagades) dry, brittle nails hair loss aphthae of the oral mucosa A prolonged iron deficiency can lead to delays and disturbances of physical and mental development in children.
- Rapid fatigue or lower load capacity
- Pallor
- Respiratory distress under stress
- Fast heartbeat (tachycardia)
- Headaches
- Swindle
- Cracked corners of the mouth (mouth rhagades)
- Dry, brittle nails
- Hair Loss
- Aphtae of the oral mucosa
Treatment
Iron deficiency caused by insufficient intake or increased consumption usually has a good prognosis. A change in diet or iron substitution can replenish the iron stores and the symptoms disappear again. Developmental or growth disorders can also be avoided by timely therapy. In the case of other causes such as food allergies or chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, adequate therapy can also eliminate or improve the iron utilization disorder and thus the prognosis is also good.
Course of disease
Iron deficiency in children is more likely to be noticed at the beginning through signs that could also be dismissed as “low performance”. These include paleness, tiredness and susceptibility to infection. If the iron deficiency lasts longer, classic symptoms such as dry skin and torn corners of the mouth, brittle fingernails, headaches, learning and concentration disorders and palpitations occur.
If the iron deficiency is not treated in time it can lead to growth and developmental disorders, especially in children. A therapy with iron preparations must be carried out for several months to a year to ensure that the iron stores are replenished.
