Iron-Deficiency Anaemia
Also known as: iron deficiency anaemia, low iron, anaemia from blood loss
Iron-deficiency anaemia is low iron leading to fewer or smaller red cells — with fatigue, breathlessness, pallor and brittle nails. The cause (bleeding, diet, absorption) always needs finding; iron treatment is medical. Chinese medicine treats the spleen-qi and blood-generation patterns, supporting appetite and digestion so iron therapy works better.
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Find and treat the cause — diet alone rarely explains it in adults.
- •Take prescribed iron with vitamin C; avoid tea/coffee with the dose.
- •Include iron-rich foods (red meat, legumes, fortified grains).
- •Heavy periods are a common cause — mention them to your GP.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Iron supplements beyond prescription can be harmful — follow the plan.[]
When to reassess or seek care again
Review at 4–6 weeks with a blood count: haemoglobin, ferritin, symptoms. Confirm the cause was addressed.
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- NHS · 2024
- Healthdirect Australia · 2024
- National Library of Medicine · 2024
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.