How to Treat Iron Deficiency Anaemia?

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is the most prevalent form of anaemia worldwide, affecting millions of individuals across all age groups. It occurs when the body lacks adequate iron, leading to insufficient haemoglobin production, which in turn compromises oxygen transport to tissues and organs. The symptoms range from fatigue, weakness, and dizziness to severe complications such as heart strain and cognitive impairment.

Despite its prevalence, IDA is preventable and treatable through dietary modifications, iron supplementation, and medical interventions. This article provides an in-depth understanding of iron deficiency anaemia, its causes, symptoms, and various treatment strategies, including the role of Livogen tablet, a commonly prescribed iron supplement.

What Causes Iron Deficiency Anaemia?

Iron deficiency anaemia happens when your body doesn't have enough iron to produce haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Some common causes include:

• Not Getting Enough Iron in Your Diet: Iron is an essential nutrient found in foods like red meat, poultry, beans, lentils, spinach, and iron-fortified cereals. If your diet consistently lacks these iron-rich foods, your body may not be able to produce enough haemoglobin.
• Blood Loss: Losing blood means losing iron. Heavy menstrual periods, gastrointestinal bleeding (from ulcers, haemorrhoids, or conditions like colon cancer), surgeries, or frequent blood donations can all lead to depleted iron stores over time.
• Poor Iron Absorption: Even if you consume enough iron, your body might not absorb it properly. Conditions that affect the digestive tract, such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or a history of gastric bypass surgery, can interfere with iron absorption.
• Increased Iron Needs: Certain life stages and conditions increase your body’s demand for iron. During pregnancy, infancy, childhood growth spurts, and adolescence, the body requires more iron to support rapid growth and development.
• Chronic Health Conditions: Long-term illnesses like kidney disease, heart failure, or thyroid disorders can affect how your body produces red blood cells, indirectly contributing to iron deficiency anaemia.

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Iron deficiency anaemia can vary in severity, with symptoms progressing as iron depletion worsens.

• Early Symptoms
• Unexplained fatigue and muscle weakness
• Pale or sallow skin complexion
• Shortness of breath during physical exertion
• Dizziness and frequent headaches
• Cold extremities (hands and feet)

Advanced Symptoms

• Chest pain or irregular heartbeats due to insufficient oxygenation
• Cognitive difficulties, such as trouble concentrating and memory lapses
• Cravings for non-food substances, such as ice, chalk, or clay (a condition known as pica)
• Hair thinning and brittle nails, indicating systemic nutritional deficiencies

Severe Cases

When haemoglobin levels fall critically low, individuals may experience fainting episodes, rapid heartbeat, and a heightened risk of cardiovascular complications.

Treatment Strategies for Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is a common condition that can be managed effectively with the right treatment strategies. Here are some key approaches:

Dietary Approaches

Proper nutrition is essential in managing iron deficiency anaemia. Iron can be obtained from two dietary sources:

• Heme Iron (Animal-Based, Highly Bioavailable)

These sources provide iron that your body can absorb more efficiently:

• Red meat – such as beef and lamb
• Poultry – including chicken and turkey
• Seafood – like oysters, clams, and salmon
• Organ meats – particularly liver and kidney
• Non-Heme Iron (Plant-Based, Moderately Absorbable)

These foods offer iron in a form that's not as easily absorbed, but still important:

• Leafy greens – such as spinach, kale, and collards
• Legumes – including lentils, beans, and chickpeas
• Whole grains – like quinoa, oats, and brown rice
• Iron-fortified foods – such as cereals, breads, and some plant milks
• Nuts and seeds – including pumpkin seeds and almonds

Tips to Enhance Iron Absorption

• Maximise your body's ability to absorb iron by following these strategies:
• Pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C: Citrus fruits, strawberries, tomatoes, and bell peppers help increase iron absorption.
• Avoid calcium-rich foods during iron intake: Dairy products like milk and cheese can interfere with iron absorption when consumed at the same time.
• Limit substances that reduce iron absorption: Tea, coffee, and alcohol contain compounds like tannins and polyphenols that can hinder iron uptake.

Iron Supplementation: Role of Livogen Tablet

While dietary improvements are essential, they may not be enough to correct iron deficiency in moderate to severe cases. In such situations, iron supplementation becomes crucial for restoring healthy haemoglobin levels and replenishing iron stores.

Livogen Tablet Composition and Benefits

Livogen tablet is a clinically recommended iron supplement containing:

• Ferrous fumarate, which provides a highly absorbable source of iron
• Folic acid, essential for red blood cell production and fetal development during pregnancy
• Advantages of Livogen Tablet
• Rapid improvement in iron stores
• Effective correction of haemoglobin deficiency
• Reduction of fatigue and increased physical endurance
• Support for cognitive function and overall well-being

Dosage and Administration

Livogen tablet should be taken as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

• It is best consumed with water, preferably on an empty stomach, to optimise absorption.
• Avoid simultaneous intake with calcium-rich foods or antacids, as they can interfere with iron absorption.
• Iron supplementation should be monitored by a healthcare professional to prevent complications such as iron overload.

Medical Treatments for Severe Cases

For individuals with severe iron deficiency anaemia, specialised medical interventions may be necessary to restore iron levels and improve red blood cell production.

• Intravenous Iron Therapy When oral iron supplements are ineffective or poorly tolerated, intravenous iron infusions offer a direct and efficient way to replenish iron stores, ensuring better absorption and faster recovery.
• Blood Transfusion In cases of critically low haemoglobin levels, red blood cell transfusions may be required to rapidly restore oxygen transport and alleviate severe symptoms such as extreme fatigue and dizziness.
• Treating Underlying Causes Effective long-term management of iron deficiency anaemia involves identifying and addressing its root causes, such as chronic blood loss from gastrointestinal conditions, heavy menstrual bleeding, or malabsorption disorders. Treating these conditions helps prevent recurrence and maintains healthy iron levels.

Monitoring Iron in High-Risk Groups

Regular screening and early detection are crucial in preventing iron deficiency anaemia, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Infants & Young Children: Since iron stores deplete by six months, introducing iron-rich complementary foods like meats, lentils, and fortified cereals is essential. Breastfed infants may need supplementation if maternal iron levels are low.

• Adolescents & Menstruating Women: Growth spurts and menstrual blood loss increase the risk of deficiency. Regular dietary iron intake and blood tests help maintain optimal levels.
• Pregnant Women: Increased iron demands necessitate prenatal screenings. Iron supplements may be required to prevent anaemia and ensure maternal and fetal health.
• Elderly & Individuals with Chronic Diseases: Ageing and conditions like gastrointestinal disorders or kidney disease can impair iron absorption. Routine blood tests help detect hidden deficiencies and allow timely intervention.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Medical consultation is necessary if symptoms persist or worsen. Immediate intervention is required in cases of:

• Severe fatigue affecting daily activities
• Dizziness or frequent fainting episodes
• Shortness of breath at rest
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding

Healthcare providers may perform blood tests, iron studies, and imaging scans to assess severity and recommend individualised treatment plans.

Conclusion

Iron deficiency anaemia is both preventable and treatable with the right care. Simple steps like eating more iron-rich foods, taking supplements like Livogen tablet when recommended, and making mindful lifestyle changes can go a long way in restoring your energy and health.
If symptoms stick around or feel more serious, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider. They can help uncover any underlying issues and guide you toward a treatment plan that works best for you.