What is serum iron?
Iron is an essential nutrient that is required for healthy red blood cell production. A serum iron test measures the amount of iron in the blood. It is used alongside other iron tests to obtain a picture of your iron status. Dietary and lifestyle changes can be helpful for both low and high levels of iron.
Why test serum iron?
A diet low in iron, vitamin B12, and folate, especially for those who avoid meat and seafood, increases the risk of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA). Regular health checks can identify the risk of anemia, iron deficiency, and haemochromatosis. Monitoring blood values is particularly important for those with a history of anemia or excess iron. Heavy periods and pregnancy can increase this risk. Athletes need iron for muscle function and energy. Low iron symptoms include fatigue, rapid heart rate, dizziness, and insomnia, while high iron can cause joint pain, liver disease, and irregular heart rhythm. Some medications, like hydrocortisone or antacids, increase iron needs.
What causes low serum iron?
Serum iron results must be interpreted alongside other test results. A low blood iron level is often caused by iron deficiency anemia (IDA), especially if transferrin or TIBC is high and transferrin saturation is low. Underlying causes include low stomach acid, low iron intake, and microscopic bleeding. Some long-term diseases cause low iron alongside low transferrin or TIBC.
What causes high serum iron?
The most common cause is hereditary hemochromatosis. Ingesting high amounts of iron can also cause high iron levels. Other reasons include multiple blood transfusions, viral infections, iron injections, iron conversion problems, lead poisoning, liver disease, and kidney disease.
Symptoms of high serum iron
Symptoms of high serum iron include fatigue, joint pain, abdominal pain, liver disease, irregular heart rhythm, and changes in skin color. High serum iron can also lead to symptoms such as weakness, weight loss, and in severe cases, organ damage. If you suspect high serum iron levels, consulting a healthcare provider for appropriate testing and management is essential.
Preparations for this test
If you take iron supplements, avoid them for 24 hours before doing this test.
On the day of the test
Always take I.D. with you when taking a test. Take this test before 10 am. Results can fluctuate throughout the day. If you are a woman who has menstrual cycles it can be helpful to note down the day of your cycle.