A more apparent heartbeat can be a symptom of one deficiency (Image: boonchai wedmakawand via Getty Images)
‘Noticeable heartbeats’ and ‘paler than usual skin’ could be signs of a prevalent deficiency. Despite resulting in 57,000 emergency admissions annually in the UK, this deficiency is often avoidable and manageable, NHS guidelines warn.
The issue of focus is iron deficiency anaemia, typically triggered by blood loss, pregnancy, or inadequate dietary intake, among other factors. Online NHS advice also warns that fatigue, breathlessness, and headaches may indicate this deficiency, though it’s crucial to seek a formal diagnosis. “To check if you have iron deficiency anaemia, your GP will ask you about your lifestyle and medical history,” online NHS guidance states. “The GP will usually do a blood test to find out if the number of red blood cells you have is normal.
If the cause of anaemia is unclear, a GP may conduct further examinations (Image: Getty)
“This is called a full blood count (FBC) test, which also looks at other types of cells in your blood. You do not need to do anything to prepare for this test.”
If the cause of the anaemia remains uncertain, a GP may carry out additional tests or refer you to a specialist for further investigation. Once the cause is determined, appropriate treatments can then be suggested.
For example, if a blood test reveals a low red blood cell count, iron tablets will be prescribed to replenish the deficient iron. Typically, these are taken for approximately six months.
Conversely, if dietary factors contribute to this deficiency, a GP will typically recommend increasing consumption of iron-rich foods. These may include dark-green leafy vegetables, fortified cereals, meat, dried fruit and pulses.
It may also help to limit tea, coffee, milk, dairy products, and foods high in phytic acid. The latter encompasses wholegrain cereals and certain nuts. NHS guidance adds: “Large amounts of these foods and drinks make it harder for your body to absorb iron.
“You might be referred to a specialist dietitian if you’re finding it hard to include iron in your diet.” It’s vital to tackle iron deficiency anaemia early, as leaving it untreated may put you at greater risk of serious illness and infection, as it affects the immune system.
Untreated iron deficiency may also elevate the risk of complications, including heart failure and tachycardia, alongside heightened risks of pregnancy and childbirth problems.
Separate advice from the Mayo Clinic adds: “If you or your child gets symptoms that might be from iron deficiency anaemia, see your healthcare professional. Don’t try to diagnose or treat it on your own.
“And talk to a healthcare professional before taking iron supplements. Too much iron in the body can be harmful. The iron can build up and damage the liver and other organs.”
Less common symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia
Beyond the more obvious signs like noticeable heartbeats and paler skin, there are also less common symptoms to watch for. According to the NHS, this may include:
- Finding it hard to swallow (dysphagia)
- Painful open sores (ulcers) in the corners of your mouth
- Feeling itchy
- Wanting to eat non-food items, such as paper or ice (pica)
- Nail changes, such as spoon-shaped nails
- Hair loss – you notice more hair coming out when brushing or washing it
- A sore tongue
- Restless legs syndrome
- Food tastes strange
- Hearing ringing, buzzing or hissing noises inside your head (tinnitus)
For more information, head to the NHS website.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
