A bad ferritin level is considered to be either too low or too high, and the specific range depends on gender. According to the reference, a low ferritin level is defined as below 30 ng/mL, while a high ferritin level is above 200 ng/mL for women and 300 ng/mL for men.
Understanding Ferritin Levels
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in your body. Measuring ferritin levels can help assess your iron status. Low ferritin levels often indicate iron deficiency, while high levels can signal other issues.
Low Ferritin Levels:
- A ferritin level below 30 ng/mL is considered low.
- This usually indicates a deficiency in iron storage, potentially leading to iron deficiency anemia.
- Symptoms can include fatigue, weakness, and pale skin.
High Ferritin Levels:
- A ferritin level above 200 ng/mL for women and 300 ng/mL for men is considered high.
- High ferritin may be due to various conditions such as inflammation, infection, liver disease, or hemochromatosis (iron overload).
- Symptoms depend on the underlying cause, but can include joint pain, abdominal pain, and fatigue.
Normal Ferritin Ranges:
Below is a table summarizing normal and abnormal ferritin levels for both men and women:
| Category | Women (ng/mL) | Men (ng/mL) |
|---|---|---|
| Low | < 30 | < 30 |
| Normal | 30-200 | 30-300 |
| High | > 200 | > 300 |
Factors Affecting Ferritin Levels:
Several factors can affect ferritin levels. These include:
- Diet: Iron intake can directly influence ferritin levels.
- Inflammation: Chronic inflammation can elevate ferritin levels.
- Infections: Acute or chronic infections can cause a temporary rise in ferritin.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like liver disease, kidney disease, and certain cancers can affect ferritin levels.
- Genetics: Hereditary conditions, like hemochromatosis, can lead to high ferritin.
What to do if your Ferritin level is abnormal?
If your ferritin level is outside the normal range, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment, which might include:
- Iron supplements for low ferritin.
- Dietary adjustments.
- Treatment for underlying medical conditions.
- Phlebotomy (blood removal) for high ferritin due to iron overload.
