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Constant fatigue may be a symptom of iron deficiency

Category: Anemia and RBC disorders

Individuals who regularly feel fatigued may benefit from seeking iron blood testing. Experts say that a frequent lack of energy is often a sign of anemia, a potentially serious health problem that can lead to other conditions.

The Mayo Clinic reports that exhaustion is the most common symptom of anemia, a condition caused by insufficient levels of red blood cells. This lack of blood cells impairs the ability of the circulatory system to carry oxygen to distant regions of the body.

While major fatigue is the most common symptom of the condition, it can have far more serious consequences. When left untreated, anemia can contribute to heart disease and even death.

However, it is a relatively easy problem to treat. The first step is getting an iron blood test. This can determine if anemia is actually the root of a person's fatigue. Second, dietary supplements containing iron may be prescribed to boost an individual's levels of the nutrient.

Once a person has taken supplements for a period, their energy levels should return to normal. Individuals who have endured persistent fatigue may find it difficult to believe that their symptoms can be cleared up that easily, but dietary supplementation is often all it takes.