A vial of blood

Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron deficiency anemia develops when there isn't enough iron that's incorporated into your oxygen-carrying red blood cells. Learn how to manage the condition and what treatments are available.
Laboratory with nurse taking a blood sample from patient
What to Expect When You Get an Iron Test
Medically reviewed by Doru Paul, MD
Israeli Laboratory Leads Western World In Blood Testing
What Is Red Cell Distribution Width on a Complete Blood Count?
Medically reviewed by Doru Paul, MD
Red blood cells inside a blood vessel
What Is MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) on Your Blood Count?
Medically reviewed by Douglas A. Nelson, MD
Black bean arugula toastadas
17 Iron-Rich Vegetarian Meals
Medically reviewed by Rochelle Collins, DO
Man Receiving IV Infusion
IV Iron Therapy Indications and Medication Choices
Medically reviewed by Douglas A. Nelson, MD
Iron rich foods can prevent iron deficiency.
How Eating Foods Rich in Iron May Prevent a Deficiency
Medically reviewed by Chris Vincent, MD
a woman being examined by a doctor for anemia
The Different Types of Anemia: Chronic Disease vs Iron Deficiency
Medically reviewed by Grant Hughes, MD
Man sleeping on a couch
Iron Deficiency Is a Nutritional Cause of Fatigue
Medically reviewed by Keri Peterson, MD
female runner exhausted with hand on head resting on street
Why Athletes Should Know About Iron Deficiency Anemia
Medically reviewed by Jonathan Cluett, MD
Woman in bathrobe taking medication in bathroom
Do I Need an Iron Supplement?
Medically reviewed by Douglas A. Nelson, MD
Young woman eating salad, head and shoulders
Eating the Right Foods Can Help You Treat Iron Deficiency Anemia
Medically reviewed by Jason DelCollo, DO
Ice cubes in colorful trays
Discover Why Chewing Ice May Be a Sign of Pagophagia
Medically reviewed by Jonathan B. Jassey, DO
Baby being fed with a spoon
Understanding Iron Deficiency in Children
Medically reviewed by Douglas A. Nelson, MD
Diet for Managing Iron Deficiency Anemia
Medically reviewed by Douglas A. Nelson, MD
plate of black beans
When Is Iron Deficiency Anemia Not What It Appears to Be?
Medically reviewed by Douglas A. Nelson, MD