Screening is important if you have a history of iron deficiency or ever been told that you have a low level of haemoglobin, i.e anaemia.
More importantly, you should get tested if you think you are at risk of developing iron deficiency, which includes:
- women with heavy periods,
- vegetarians or
- those who suffer from inflammatory bowel disease as this would impair iron absorption from your diet.
You might be experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding if you tick 2 or more boxes from the 4 screening questions below:
- Need for frequent changes of sanitary towels or tamps (2 hours or less / >12 times/day)
- Need for double sanitary protection (tampons and towels)
- Passing of large blood clots
- Flooding through to clothes or bedding.
Screening may be useful in these cases as symptoms may be vague and difficult to recognise.
You should certainly request testing for iron deficiency from your healthcare practitioner if you are experiencing symptoms, which commonly include:
- hair loss,
- fatigue or low energy levels,
- brain fog (poor concentration) or
- have a craving for ice -- an odd and peculiar symptom, I know!
