What Are the Symptoms of Iron Deficiency?

Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body. Low iron stores can cause symptoms even before anemia develops.

Common Symptoms of Iron Deficiency

• Persistent fatigue and low energy
• Difficulty concentrating or brain fog
• Headaches and dizziness
• Reduced exercise tolerance
• Shortness of breath, particularly with exertion
• Restless legs syndrome
• Hair shedding
• Unusual cravings for ice (pagophagia)

Not everyone experiences these symptoms, and many have other possible causes. See our guides to fatigue and brain fog.

Why Iron Deficiency Matters During Perimenopause

Irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding can contribute to iron loss. Symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating may overlap with symptoms attributed to perimenopause. Learn more in How Do I Know I'm in Perimenopause? and brain fog in perimenopause.

How Is Iron Deficiency Diagnosed?

A complete blood count (CBC) evaluates hemoglobin and red blood cell indices. Ferritin helps assess iron stores, and additional iron studies may be useful when indicated.

Iron deficiency can occur without anemia. Treatment should address both the deficiency and its underlying cause.

For more on nutrition and energy, read iron, vitamin D and fatigue and nutrition and brain health.