What are the signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anemia?
• You may not know that you have iron deficiency anemia. You may feel more tired or weak than usual. Your heart may beat fast and your skin and nails may look pale. The whites of your eyes may have a blue-like color. You may feel short of breath when exercising. You may feel dizzy or faint. You may not feel hungry, or you may have abdominal (belly) pain. • Infants and children with iron deficiency anemia may grow too slowly. They may have problems concentrating (paying attention) and problems with their behavior (how they act). • Other signs and symptoms include headache, feeling irritable, or feeling like you cannot think clearly. You may feel cold, or your fingernails or toenails may break easily. Burning and soreness of the tongue, and sores on the side of your mouth are also common signs. You may want to eat ice, paint, starch, or dirt (a condition called pica) if you have iron deficiency anemia. How is iron deficiency anemia diagnosed? It is important to learn what is causing your
