Q: Which doctor do I consult if I suffer from symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia like chronic fatigue, headaches, breathlessness, palpitations or excess and abnormal bleeding from uterus?
A: If there is a family doctor, it is best to consult him or her. Otherwise one needs to
consult the specialist according to which body part is affected. For example, women with menstrual disorders should consult a gynecologist. If breathlessness and fatigue are the main symptoms, one needs to consult a General Physician.
Q: Can iron supplements give you diarrhea?
A: Yes. However. constipation is more common due to the astringent action of iron. As mentioned above, the side effects may be minimized by taking the medication with meals.
Q: What can I do to prevent iron deficiency anemia?
A: Include iron rich foods regularly in the diet. Do not neglect any abnormal symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, bleeding, palpitations, or any change from normal. Consult the doctor immediately.
Q: Are there different types of anemia?
A: Yes it is also possible to get anemia from vitamin deficiency. In both iron and vitamin (B12) deficiency types of anemia the hemoglobin will be low, however when seen under the microscope in iron deficiency type the stained peripheral smear shows red cells that are smaller than normal and having increased central pallor (microcytic, hypochromic anemia) whereas the cells are large in vitamin deficiency anemia (macrocytic anemia).
