Health guide
Iron deficiency: symptoms, iron studies, and what the numbers mean
Iron is the raw material your body uses to make haemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in your blood. Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the world, and especially common in menstruating women and vegetarians. It develops gradually, and iron studies (serum iron, ferritin, TIBC, and transferrin saturation) show both your iron stores and how iron is being transported.
Reviewed by Dr. Vishal Singh, Lab Director
Common symptoms of iron deficiency
- Persistent tiredness and weakness
- Pale skin
- Breathlessness on mild effort
- Hair fall and brittle nails
- Frequent headaches or dizziness
- Unusual cravings, such as for ice
What iron studies measure
Serum iron is the iron in your blood right now; ferritin reflects your stored iron and is usually the earliest and most useful sign, dropping before anaemia appears. TIBC (total iron-binding capacity) tends to rise in deficiency, and transferrin saturation falls. A Complete Blood Count alongside shows whether anaemia has already set in.
Who is most at risk, and next steps
Menstruating and pregnant women, vegetarians, frequent blood donors, and people with gut conditions are most likely to run low. Your doctor confirms the cause and advises on diet and supplements. For the fuller picture of low haemoglobin and tiredness, read our anaemia and fatigue guide.
This guide is for general information and is not a diagnosis. Always discuss your symptoms and results with a doctor. LabONE includes a free doctor consultation with every report.
Tests that help
Recommended panel
EnergyShield
7 parameters in one panel
Frequently asked questions
What does a low ferritin mean?
A low ferritin indicates depleted iron stores and is often the earliest sign of iron deficiency, even before anaemia shows on a CBC. The exact cut-off is on your report; your doctor will advise on diet or supplements.
Do I need to fast for iron studies?
A morning sample is preferred because iron levels vary through the day, and fasting is sometimes advised. Follow the instruction given with your booking, or ask MIRA when you book.
Not sure where to start?
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