Iron Deficiency Anaemia
A lack of red blood cells or haemoglobin caused by too little iron. It's the most common type of anaemia in India.
Quick Summary
Tiredness, weakness, pale skin, breathlessness, fast heartbeat, headaches, brittle nails and craving non-food items like ice or mud.
Iron tablets or syrup, iron-rich foods, treating the cause, and iron injections or infusions for some people.
Heavy periods, pregnancy, poor diet, blood loss from the gut, worm infections and frequent blood donation.
Overview
Iron is needed to make haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in red blood cells. Without enough iron, the body can't make enough healthy red blood cells.
Anaemia affects a large share of women and children in India. Finding and treating the cause is as important as replacing iron.
Symptoms
Tiredness
And low energy.
Pale skin
Pale inner eyelids and nails.
Breathlessness
With mild activity.
Fast heartbeat
Palpitations.
Causes & Risk Factors
Biological Causes
Not enough iron from food, increased need (pregnancy, growth), or blood loss.
Key Risk Factors
- Blood loss Heavy periods or bleeding from the stomach or bowel.
- Pregnancy Needs extra iron.
- Diet and worms Low iron intake and hookworm infection.
Management & Treatment
01. Iron supplements
Taken as advised; vitamin C helps absorption, tea and coffee reduce it.
02. Iron-rich foods
Green leafy vegetables, pulses, jaggery, meat and fortified foods.
03. Treat the cause
Such as heavy periods or worm infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need iron tablets?
Do iron tablets have side effects?
Should men with anaemia be checked?
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Anemia(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Iron deficiency anaemia(opens in a new tab) · NHS