hematology and oncology
Iron Deficiency Anemia
Symptoms and Signs of Iron Deficiency Anemia
Most symptoms of iron deficiency are due to anemia. Such symptoms include fatigue, loss of stamina, shortness of breath, weakness, dizziness, and pallor. Another common symptom is Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD) and Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) (RLS), which is an unpleasant urge to move the legs during periods of inactivity. In addition to the usual manifestations of anemia, some uncommon symptoms occur in severe iron deficiency. Patients may have Pica , an abnormal craving to eat nonfood substances (eg, ice, dirt, paint, starch, ashes). Other symptoms of severe deficiency include glossitis, cheilosis, and concave nails (koilonychia). 