Iron-Deficiency Anemia: Find the Bleed
Iron deficiency in men or post-menopausal women warrants gastrointestinal investigation.
Healthlife Editorial Team
Medical writers
In simple terms
Iron deficiency in men or post-menopausal women warrants gastrointestinal investigation.
What you need to remember
- Investigation — Heavy menstrual bleeding, GI blood loss (endoscopy/colonoscopy), coeliac disease, poor absorption.
Fatigue, pale skin, dyspnoea on exertion, hair loss, restless legs.
Investigation
Heavy menstrual bleeding, GI blood loss (endoscopy/colonoscopy), coeliac disease, poor absorption.
Oral iron alternate-day is often better tolerated and equally effective.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Iron-Deficiency Anemia: Find the Bleed?
- Iron deficiency in men or post-menopausal women warrants gastrointestinal investigation.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Iron-Deficiency Anemia: Find the Bleed?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Iron-Deficiency Anemia: Find the Bleed?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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