This post was written by Ann Vick, MLS(ASCP), C(ASCP), laboratory chemistry specialist, Parkview Health.
Identifying abnormal iron levels early can help prevent serious health problems. In this post, we examine the signs of an imbalance along with the different blood tests available to assess and monitor iron levels.
Why is iron important?
Iron is essential for creating red blood cells and producing hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells. Hemoglobin is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. In addition to its role in oxygen transport, iron supports the immune system and helps protect the body from infection.
Sources of iron
While this mineral is essential for growth and development, the body cannot produce iron on its own, so it must be obtained from food.
There are two forms of iron in food:
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Heme iron is present in proteins like red meat, poultry and seafood.
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Non-heme iron comes from beans, nuts, broccoli, spinach and fortified cereals.
While most people can meet their daily iron needs through a balanced diet, those with low blood iron or difficulty absorbing iron may need a dietary supplement. Your healthcare provider can help you determine if supplementation is necessary.
What are the signs of iron imbalance?
Low iron levels may result from insufficient dietary iron, difficulty absorbing iron from food, blood loss or pregnancy. This can lead to a condition known as iron-deficiency anemia, which is associated with symptoms such as:
In contrast, excess iron levels can occur if an individual takes too many iron supplements or suffers from hemochromatosis, which makes it hard for the body to remove excess iron. It can also result from receiving frequent blood transfusions. This can lead to a condition called iron overload, which includes symptoms such as:
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Fatigue
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Weakness
How is iron tested?
If your healthcare provider suspects an iron imbalance, they may recommend blood tests to assess your iron levels and how well your body processes it. These tests can include:
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Iron – measures the amount of iron in the blood
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Ferritin – indicates how much iron is stored in your body
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Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC) – measures how well transferrin (a protein) binds to iron in the blood
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Unsaturated Iron-Binding Capacity (UIBC) – shows how much transferrin protein is unattached to iron
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% Transferrin Saturation – determines what percentage of transferrin is attached to iron
Final thoughts
If you experience symptoms of either iron deficiency or iron overload, consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis or treatment.
Parkview Health Laboratories offers Direct Access Testing (DAT) for an Iron test or an Iron Profile (Iron, TIBC, UIBC, % saturation, and Ferritin) to patients without requiring a physician's order or scheduling an appointment. With multiple convenient locations, getting tested is simple and efficient. Visit a DAT location near you and take proactive steps to monitor your health.
