Iron Deficiency Blood Test

What you need to know about our Iron Deficiency Test

Iron is an essential mineral that's key to your health. You need it to make your red blood cells and for a strong immune system. But iron deficiency is really common.

To check for iron deficiency we measure a marker in your blood called ferritin.

Who should take the Iron Deficiency Test?

It's useful to check for iron deficiency if you're feeling tired or run-down or if you're in one of the higher risk groups.

Some of us are at particularly high risk of iron deficiency:

• People on plant-based diets: one of the main sources of iron is meat. If you eat little or no meat you're at high risk of deficiency.
• Women before the menopause: losing iron with your monthly cycle can often lead to iron deficiency - particularly if periods are heavy.

What are the symptoms of iron deficiency?

Low iron can have no symptoms at all or can cause symptoms such as:

• tiredness and fatigue
• shortness of breath, particularly on exertion
• being prone to infections
• hair loss
• brittle nails
• sore mouth

What are the causes of iron deficiency?

The common causes of iron deficiency include:

• Not getting enough iron in your diet - e.g. being on a plant-based diet.
• Blood loss - e.g. heavy periods or bleeding from the bowel (which can be a sign of bowel cancer).
• Increased needs - e.g. pregnancy and breastfeeding, teenage growth spurts and endurance training can all raise your iron requirements.
• Poor absorption - conditions like coeliac disease or inflammatory bowel disease and low stomach acid/long-term acid-suppressing medicines can reduce iron uptake.

Who is this test for?

• You're on a plant-based diet or eat very little meat.
• You're a woman before the menopause, particularly if you have heavy periods.
• You want a quick and easy test to check your iron levels.

Blood collection options

• Finger-prick blood collection (included)
• EasyDraw blood collection (+£25.00)
• Visit a clinic to have your blood taken (+£35.00)
• Book a venous draw at home or work with a nurse (+£70.00)
• Arrange your own venous blood draw (included)

Description provided by Selph.