Diagnosis can be made with a simple blood test along with a specialist doctor review of your symptoms with an examination
Diagnosing iron deficiency
An assessment of symptoms and blood tests are used to diagnose iron deficiency anaemia.
Blood tests will look at the number of red blood cells and haemoglobin level, as well as the iron stores in the body.
It is important that the underlying cause of the deficiency is identified, as iron deficiency may be the first symptom of a more serious disorder. When it is suspected that there is blood loss from the digestive tract, tests to detect blood in the bowel motions may be recommended. Diagnostic tests (eg: colonoscopy, gastroscopy) to investigate the digestive tract for the source of any blood loss may be performed.
It is important that the underlying cause of the deficiency is identified, as iron deficiency may be the first symptom of a more serious disorder.