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Iron deficiency anemia - Treatment

Alternative Names

Anemia - iron deficiency

Treatment:

The cause of the deficiency must be identified, particularly in older patients who are most susceptible to intestinal cancer.

Oral iron supplements are available (ferrous sulfate). The best absorption of iron is on an empty stomach, but many people are unable to tolerate this and may need to take it with food. Milk and antacids may interfere with absorption of iron and should not be taken at the same time as iron supplements. Vitamin C can increase absorption and is essential in the production of hemoglobin.

Supplemental iron is needed during pregnancy and lactation because normal dietary intake rarely supplies the required amount.

The hematocrit should return to normal after 2 months of iron therapy. However, iron should be continued for another 6 - 12 months to replenish the body's iron stores, which are stored mostly in the bone marrow.

Intravenous or intra-muscular iron is available for patients who can't tolerate forms taken by mouth.

Iron-rich foods include raisins, meats (liver is the highest source), fish, poultry, eggs (yolk), legumes (peas and beans), and whole grain bread.

Expectations (prognosis):

With treatment, the outcome is likely to be good. Usually, blood counts will return to normal in 2 months.

Complications:

There are usually no complications. However, iron deficiency anemia may recur, so regular follow-up is encouraged. Children with this disorder may be more susceptible to infection.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with the health care provider if symptoms suggestive of this disorder develop or if blood is noted in the stool.

  • Reviewed last on: 6/10/2008
  • James R. Mason, MD, Oncologist, Director, Blood and Marrow Transplantation Program and Stem Cell Processing Lab, Scripps Clinic, Torrey Pines, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Brotanek JM, Gosz J, Weitzman M, Flores G. Iron deficiency in early childhood in the United States: risk factors and racial/ethnic disparities. Pediatrics. Sep 2007;120(3):568-75.

Ginder GD. Microcytic and hypochromic anemias. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 163.

Killip S, Bennett JM, Chambers MD. Iron deficiency anemia. Am Fam Physician. Mar 1 2007;75(5):671-8.

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