Iron supplements how long does it take to work

If you're anemic, your symptoms should begin to improve within two to three weeks of starting iron supplementation. However, it may take up to six months to cure your anemia. When you're anemic due to iron deficiency , your body isn't making enough hemoglobin to carry oxygen to all of your cells. Hemoglobin is a protein that carries oxygen in your red blood cells. Your bone marrow produces red blood cells using iron, vitamin B12, and other vital minerals and enzymes.

The American Society of Hematology says that the most common cause of anemia is iron deficiency. Although most people in the U. This may make iron supplements the ideal treatment. Iron is a raw material that your body needs to make new red blood cells. If your doctor has determined that you're anemic, she will probably do a blood test to be sure that it's an iron deficiency and not another issue that's causing the problem.

Most likely, she will require changes in your diet or she'll prescribe iron supplements and give you specific instructions about when to take them. Once the iron from the supplements starts to get into your system, your bone marrow will kick into action, turning out new red blood cells.

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Are you an active exerciser? Introduce Active Iron into your routine. Can you prevent iron deficiency anemia? Symptoms Mild iron deficiency anemia may not cause noticeable symptoms. If anemia is severe, symptoms may include: Weakness, fatigue, or lack of stamina. Shortness of breath during exercise. Trouble concentrating. Pale skin. Craving substances that are not food pica. In particular, a craving for ice can be a sign of iron deficiency anemia. Other signs may include: Rapid heartbeat.

Brittle fingernails and toenails. Cracked lips. Smooth, sore tongue. Muscle pain during exercise. Trouble swallowing. Exams and Tests If your doctor suspects iron deficiency anemia, he or she will do a physical exam and ask about your symptoms and your medical history. Your doctor will want to know about: Any medicines that you are taking. Your eating habits. Any current or past conditions or diseases that you or a close family member has had. Your history of pregnancy, menstruation, or other sources of bleeding.

Possible tests include: A complete blood count CBC , to look at the shape, color, number, and size of your blood cells. Iron tests , which measure the amount of iron in your blood, to help determine the type and severity of anemia. Reticulocyte count , to help determine the cause of anemia. Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells produced by bone marrow and released into the bloodstream.

Levels of reticulocytes are lower in iron deficiency anemia. A ferritin level test , which reflects how much iron may be stored in the body. Abnormally low ferritin levels may point to iron deficiency anemia. This is one of the first tests to be abnormal when you have iron deficiency.

A colonoscopy. This test inspects the entire large intestine colon using a long, flexible, lighted viewing scope to look for polyps or other sources of bleeding. An upper gastrointestinal GI endoscopy. This test, which uses a thin, flexible, lighted viewing instrument, can help identify stomach ulcers or other causes of irritation or bleeding.

Video capsule endoscopy. For this test, you swallow a capsule that contains a tiny camera. As the capsule travels through your system, the camera takes pictures of your small intestine that can show where bleeding is occurring. X-ray tests such as an upper GI series or barium enema. Treatment Overview Treatment for iron deficiency anemia focuses on increasing your iron stores so they reach normal levels and identifying and controlling any conditions that caused the anemia.

If your anemia is caused by: A disease or condition, such as bleeding in your stomach, your doctor will take steps to correct the problem. Not having enough iron in your diet or not being able to absorb iron, your doctor will work with you to develop a plan to increase your iron levels. To watch your condition, your doctor will use blood tests, such as: A complete blood count CBC , to look at the shape, color, number, and size of your blood cells.

Iron tests , which measure the amount of iron in your blood. A reticulocyte count , to see how well treatment is working. Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells produced by the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream. When reticulocyte counts increase, it usually means that iron replacement treatment is effective.

What to think about If you suspect you have iron deficiency anemia, do not take iron pills without consulting your doctor. Home Treatment If you have iron deficiency anemia, talk with your doctor about taking iron supplement pills and getting enough iron in your food each day.

To get the most benefit from your iron pills and the iron content of your food: Take vitamin C ascorbic acid or drink orange juice with your pills. Steam vegetables to help them retain their iron content. Do not take your iron pills: Within 2 hours of taking antacids or tetracycline an antibiotic. With certain foods, chemicals, and nutrients. Iron is an essential mineral that our bodies need to function properly.

Iron supplements may help your body regain a healthy amount of iron. If you have been diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia, talk with your doctor about which supplements may be right for you. Avoiding certain foods like raw vegetables or milk for a few hours before taking your iron supplements will ensure better absorption.

When you have anemia, it means your iron levels are low. Continue reading…. Iron deficiency anemia is a common nutritional disorder that occurs when the body lacks iron.