To check your iron levels, your doctor will typically order a blood test. This test provides a comprehensive picture of your iron status.
Here's a breakdown of what the blood test usually entails:
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Complete Blood Count (CBC): A CBC measures different components of your blood, including red blood cells. Low red blood cell counts can indicate anemia, which may be caused by iron deficiency.
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Hemoglobin Levels: Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Low hemoglobin levels are a key indicator of iron-deficiency anemia.
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Blood Iron Levels: This directly measures the amount of iron circulating in your blood.
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Ferritin Levels: Ferritin is a protein that stores iron. Measuring ferritin levels helps determine the amount of iron stored in your body. Low ferritin levels are a strong indicator of iron deficiency.
According to the reference, "To help diagnose iron-deficiency anemia, your doctor will order a blood test to check your complete blood count (CBC), hemoglobin levels, blood iron levels, and ferritin levels. Your doctor may tell you that the iron level in your blood is low." (24-Mar-2022)
Understanding the Results
Your doctor will interpret the results of these tests in conjunction with your medical history and any symptoms you may be experiencing to determine if you have iron deficiency and the appropriate course of treatment.
