To check your ferritin levels, your doctor will order a ferritin blood test. This simple test measures the amount of ferritin, a protein that stores iron, in your blood.
Why Check Ferritin Levels?
- Ferritin levels indicate how much iron is stored in your body.
- The test helps diagnose iron deficiency or overload.
- It can also provide clues about certain health conditions not directly related to iron levels.
- In addition to a ferritin test, your doctor might order other blood tests to directly measure iron levels in your bloodstream.
Understanding the Ferritin Test
| Test | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ferritin Blood Test | Measures the amount of ferritin, an iron storage protein, in the blood. | To assess iron storage and diagnose iron deficiencies or overload. |
| Other blood tests | Measures the iron directly in the bloodstream. | Provides a comprehensive assessment of iron status. |
What Happens During the Test
- A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm.
- The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
- Your doctor will discuss the results with you, explaining what they mean for your health.
When to Get Tested
- Your doctor might order a ferritin test if you have symptoms of iron deficiency, like fatigue, weakness, or pale skin.
- It may also be done to monitor individuals with conditions affecting iron levels.
- Routine tests during physicals can also check your ferritin levels.
