Iron plays a key role in a variety of body functions:

• Oxygen transport : It is a main component of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues.
• Energy production : Participates in metabolic processes as an enzymatic cofactor.
• Immune function : Supports the immune system.

Iron is stored in the body in two main forms:

1. Transferrin : Carries iron in the blood.
2. Ferritin : Stores iron in the tissue.

Monitoring iron levels helps diagnose conditions such as anemia, hemochromatosis (iron overload), and other metabolic disorders.

Iron tests are used to assess iron levels and diagnose disorders associated with deficiency or overload. This test is generally prescribed in the following situations:

• Anemia symptoms : Tiredness, dizziness, shortness of breath.
• Chronic blood loss : Heavy periods, gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Vegetarian or vegan diet : Iron intake often reduced.
• Pregnancy : Increase in iron requirements.
• Chronic diseases : Crohn's disease, celiac disease.
• Followed by iron treatment or after blood transfusions.
• Suspicion of iron overload (hemochromatosis).

Types of Iron Tests

1. Serum Iron Test : Measures the amount of iron in the blood.
2. Total Iron Fixing Capacity (TIBC) : Evaluates the ability of blood to bind iron with transferrin.
3. Ferritin test : Measures how much iron is stored in the body.
4. Complete blood count (CBC) : Analyzes hemoglobin levels and may indicate anemia.

Preparations for the Test

• Fasting : Some tests require an 8-12 hour fast for accurate results.
• Feeding : Avoid iron-rich foods or supplements prior to testing unless otherwise advised.

Normal iron levels can vary depending on age, gender, and health conditions:

Serum iron

• Hommes : 50—150 mcg/dL
• Women : 35—145 mcg/dL

Note: Normal ranges may differ by laboratory.

High Iron Levels (Iron Overload)

Causes

• Hemochromatosis : A genetic condition that causes excessive iron absorption.
• Iron-rich diet : Excessive consumption of iron-rich foods or fortified products.
• Iron supplements : Unsupervised overdose.
• Multiple blood transfusions : May cause excessive iron accumulation.
• Liver diseases : Some conditions can increase iron storage.

Recommendations for Managing High Levels

1. Cut back on iron-rich foods : Limit the consumption of red meat, liver and fortified cereals.
2. Avoid Iron Supplements : Unless medically indicated.
3. Increase Calcium Intake : May reduce iron absorption.
4. Donate blood : May reduce iron stores (consult a doctor first).
5. Therapeutic Phlebotomy : Medical treatment to eliminate excess iron.

Low Iron Levels (Iron Deficiency)

Causes

• Blood loss : Heavy periods, gastrointestinal ulcers.
• Insufficient iron intake : Diet low in iron-rich foods.
• Increased needs : Pregnancy, breast-feeding.
• Chronic diseases : Reduction in iron absorption.

Symptoms

• Fatigue, weakness.
• Pale skin.
• Brittle nails.
• Shortness of breath.

Recommendations for Managing Low Levels

1. Increase iron-rich foods : Spinach, lentils, red meat, seafood.
2. Combine with Vitamin C : Promotes the absorption of iron (for example, consuming citrus fruits with iron-rich foods).
3. Avoid Tea and Coffee : Reduce iron absorption when consumed with meals.
4. Take Iron Supplements : Under medical supervision.

Dietary changes

• Balanced diet : Incorporate iron-rich foods, but avoid excesses.
• Hydration : Maintains good metabolic function.
• Avoid Unnecessary Supplements : Take supplements only with a prescription.

Lifestyle Changes

• Regular Blood Donation : Helps maintain stable iron levels for people with mild overload.
• Moderate exercise : Improves circulation and reduces metabolic stress.
• Medical surveillance : Regular checks to avoid complications.

Proactively managing iron levels contributes to disease prevention and better overall health.

Doctors to Consult in Case of Abnormal Levels

• General practitioner : To detect and manage mild cases.
• Hematologist : Specialist in blood disorders, including anemia and iron overload.
• Gastroenterologist : If absorption disorders such as Crohn's disease are suspected.