Iron Deficiency Profile (Iron Profile)

Iron Deficiency Profile is a series of laboratory tests that are used to evaluate the body's iron stores and determine if an individual has an iron deficiency. The profile typically includes tests for serum iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), ferritin, and transferrin saturation.

Serum iron measures the amount of iron in the blood. TIBC measures the total amount of iron that can be bound by transferrin, a protein that carries iron in the blood. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body, and transferrin saturation measures the percentage of transferrin that is saturated with iron.

An Iron Deficiency Profile can help healthcare providers identify iron deficiency anaemia, a condition in which the body doesn't have enough iron to produce haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the body's tissues. Symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and brittle nails.

Signs and Symptoms of Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency can manifest in various ways, and the symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the deficiency. Some common symptoms of iron deficiency include:

1. Fatigue and weakness
2. Pale skin
3. Shortness of breath
4. Dizziness or lightheadedness
5. Headaches
6. Cold hands and feet
7. Brittle nails
8. Inflammation or soreness of the tongue
9. Restless legs syndrome
10. Unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances such as ice, dirt, or starch (a condition called pica)
11. Difficulty in maintaining body temperature
12. Poor appetite
13. Reduced immunity and increased risk of infections
14. Irregular heartbeat and chest pain (in severe cases).

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider about getting an Iron Deficiency Profile. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes and prevent complications. At Healthcare nt sickcare, our experienced team of medical professionals provides reliable and accurate testing to assess your iron status and help you maintain optimal health.

Tests Included in Iron Deficiency Profile

1. Total Iron
2. Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
3. Transferrin Saturation