Serum iron and hemoglobin difference. Iron in the blood: normal, high and low levels

In children, iron deficiency is the cause of delayed growth and development.

In addition, iron deficiency can indicate very dangerous diseases, such as cancer. In this case, treatment with the use of medications and other forms of therapy should be started as quickly as possible. Sometimes the cause is not related to the disease and is caused by insufficient intake of the element into the body along with food. In this case, the answer to the question of how to raise the level of iron in the blood is simple: you need to adjust the diet. The use of drugs in this case is usually not required (unless the doctor may prescribe the use of vitamin-mineral complexes).

Functions of iron in the blood

It is believed that in the human body the total amount of iron ranges from two to seven grams, depending on the sex, weight and age of the person. In its pure form, this substance is not in the body: it is very toxic, so when the microelement enters the bloodstream, most of it is bound by proteins. The rest of the iron is instantly converted into hemosiderin or ferritin (protein compounds), which are deposited in the tissues in the form of reserves, and when the body is deficient in a microelement, it extracts them from there.

The body itself does not produce iron: this trace element comes from food, is absorbed in the intestines (which is why a low amount of a trace element is often associated with problems in the intestinal tract). Iron is then released into plasma, the liquid part of the blood.

Then about eighty percent of the microelement is part of hemoglobin, which is an integral part of the erythrocyte. Here, iron is responsible for attaching oxygen and carbon dioxide to hemoglobin. This microelement attaches oxygen to itself in the lungs. Then, as part of hemoglobin, which is inside the red blood cells, it goes to the cells, transfers oxygen to them, and attaches carbon dioxide to itself. After that, the erythrocyte goes to the lungs, where iron atoms easily part with carbon dioxide.

Interestingly, iron acquires the ability to attach and detach gases only when it is part of hemoglobin. Other compounds that include this trace element do not have this capability.

About ten percent of iron is part of myoglobin, which is found in the myocardial muscle and skeletal muscles. Myoglobin binds oxygen and stores it. If the body begins to experience oxygen starvation, this gas is extracted from myoglobin, passes into the muscles and participates in further reactions. Therefore, when for some reason the blood supply to any part of the muscle is disrupted, the muscle still receives oxygen for some time.

Also, iron is part of other substances, and together with them is involved in hematopoiesis, the production of DNA, connective tissue. Takes part in lipid metabolism, oxidative reactions, regulates the neutralization of poisons by the liver, promotes energy metabolism. The thyroid gland needs this element for the synthesis of hormones that are involved in many metabolic processes. The role of iron during pregnancy is important: the baby's body uses it to build its tissues.

It has long been noticed that the lack of iron in the body negatively affects the functioning of the nervous system. And all because this element is involved in the transmission of signals between brain cells. Also, this microelement increases the body's resistance to disease, relieves fatigue. Therefore, with its lack, a person often feels powerless.

How much should be a trace element?

In the male body, the reserves of this trace element are higher than in women, and range from 500 to 1.5 thousand mg. In women, this figure ranges from 300 to 1 thousand mg. At the same time, doctors argue that the vast majority of the population has iron reserves at a minimum. That is why during pregnancy, when the body requires iron in large quantities, there may be a lack of it, and doctors prescribe vitamin and mineral preparations for the purpose of prevention.

To find out if there is a lack of iron in the body, it is necessary to do a biochemical blood test. The material for the study is taken from a vein, then fibrinogen is removed from the plasma (so that the blood does not clot during the study), and serum is obtained. Such a sample is convenient to use during the study of blood composition.

Thus, the norm of serum iron in the blood of a healthy person should correspond to the following values:

• up to 1 year: 7.16 - 17.9 µmol / l;
• from 1 to 14 years: 8.95 - 21.48 µmol / l;
• in women after 14 years, including during pregnancy: 8.95 - 30.43 µmol / l;
• in men after 14 years: 11.64 - 30.43 µmol / l.

In the female body, its amount is less than in men. In women of reproductive age, the concentration of iron depends on menstruation. In the second half of the cycle, the indicators of this trace element reach the highest values, after menstruation, its level decreases greatly, which is associated with blood loss during menstruation.

During pregnancy, the iron content in the body should be at the same level as that of a non-pregnant woman.

But at the same time, the body's need for this trace element increases, and therefore it is necessary to ensure that during pregnancy a sufficient amount of iron is supplied with food. This is due to the fact that not only the mother's body, but also the baby needs this microelement. Therefore, at a certain stage of its development, it begins to take it very quickly in large quantities.

That is why the doctor during pregnancy recommends a special diet, and also prescribes the use of special vitamin and mineral preparations. Thanks to this, the body during pregnancy is provided with all the necessary substances. After childbirth, the acute need for iron, as during pregnancy, disappears. But is it worth it to refuse the use of vitamin and mineral preparations, the doctor should say.

iron deficiency symptoms

When interpreting the results, it is very important to take into account at what time of day the material was taken: the iron content in the body fluctuates greatly throughout the day. It is known that the concentration of iron in the morning is higher than in the evening.

You should also know that the concentration of iron in the blood depends on many reasons: on the work of the intestines, on the amount of trace element reserves that are stored in the spleen, bone marrow and other organs, as well as on the production and breakdown of hemoglobin in the body. Iron leaves the body in different ways: with feces, urine, and even as part of nails and hair.

That is why, if the body lacks iron, there are disorders in the work of many organs and systems. Therefore, a trace element deficiency makes you aware of the following symptoms:

• increased fatigue, feeling of weakness, fatigue;
• increased heart rate, shortness of breath;
• irritability;
• dizziness;
• migraines;
• cold fingers and toes;
• pale skin, brittle nails, hair loss;
• pain or inflammation of the tongue;
• a strong desire to move your legs (restless legs syndrome);
• poor appetite, cravings for unusual foods.

Having found such symptoms, it is imperative to pass an analysis to determine the level of iron in the blood. If the study shows its deficiency, the cause must be clarified as quickly as possible (especially when it comes to pregnancy or a growing child's body).

Don’t be scared right away: in many situations, iron deficiency is caused by poor nutrition. For example, its deficiency is recorded in vegetarians, in people who adhere to a dairy diet (calcium prevents the absorption of the microelement), as well as in those who are fond of fatty foods. Also in the body there is little iron during a hunger strike. After correcting the diet, taking vitamin and mineral preparations, its concentration returns to normal.

A small amount of iron in the body may be due to the increased need of the body for this trace element. This primarily applies to small children under two years of age, adolescents, women during pregnancy, during lactation.

Sometimes iron deficiency can provoke stressful situations, a shattered nervous system. In this case, you need to put it in order, avoid stress.

Pathological causes

Iron deficiency can lead to various diseases. Among them:

• Iron deficiency anemia, provoked by diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, which interfere with the normal absorption of the trace element in the intestine. It can be gastritis, enteritis, enterocolitis, various tumors in the stomach and intestines, operations to remove part of the small intestine or stomach.
• The presence of inflammation, purulent-septic and other infections.
• Osteomyelitis (purulent infection that affects the bone tissue).
• Myocardial infarction.
• An increased amount of iron-containing pigment hemosiderin (formed during the breakdown of hemoglobin or with intensive absorption of iron from the intestine).
• A problem with the synthesis of the hormone erythropoietin in the kidneys due to chronic renal failure or other diseases of this organ.
• Rheumatism.
• Iron is excreted rapidly in the urine due to nephrotic syndrome.
• Bleeding of various nature.
• Increased hematopoiesis, in which iron is used.
• Cirrhosis.
• Benign and oncological tumors, especially fast-growing ones.
• Stagnation of bile in the biliary tract.
• Deficiency of vitamin C, which promotes the absorption of iron.

Due to the fact that iron deficiency can be provoked by various reasons, having discovered a lack of a trace element, the doctor will send you for additional examination. It must be completed as quickly as possible, because among the diseases that cause iron deficiency in the blood, there are deadly diseases. And only then, according to the results of the analysis, will he prescribe treatment, prescribe the necessary drugs.

The Importance of Diet

To increase iron in the blood, it is very important not only to take the prescribed medications, but also to pay attention to the diet. A menu aimed at increasing the level of iron in the blood should include the use of lean beef, lamb, veal, rabbit, fish, turkey or goose. There is little trace element in pork, so nutritionists do not recommend using it to increase iron. To increase this trace element in the blood, the liver, which is a hematopoietic organ, is well suited. But it must be consumed in moderation, since it is also responsible for the neutralization of toxins.

Buckwheat, oatmeal, beans, nuts, oysters contribute to an increase in iron in the blood. The diet should contain fresh vegetables and fruits, which contain not only iron, but also vitamin C, which contributes to the absorption of this trace element.

It is important to understand that diet alone is not enough to increase iron in the blood if the problem is caused by an illness. Even if the food contains the right amount of a microelement, this will not be enough if the body does not absorb it enough due to illness or there are problems due to which the microelement is consumed in an increased amount.

Therefore, it is very important to follow all the instructions of the doctor, take the drugs prescribed by him, including the dosage. It is impossible to increase or decrease the dose of drugs on your own in any case.

Blood test for serum iron - deciphering the results, normal indicators for men, women and children

This substance plays an important role in the life support of the body. In human blood, there is the so-called bound serum iron, which, for various reasons, can increase or decrease, which, as a rule, indicates the presence of a variety of pathological conditions. Find out what this element is and what is its significance for the body.

What is serum iron

The correct ratio of all the substances necessary for a person is the key to good health. At the same time, iron (Fe) is considered one of the most significant metals for the body. This trace element is part of pigment proteins, cytochromes and acts as a coenzyme of many chemical reactions. The body contains about 4-7 mg of iron. In the bone marrow, liver, and spleen, Fe is found as intracellular ferritin. Only the plasma concentration of this protein complex is a reliable reflection of the metal reserves.

Serum ferritin serves as a kind of “iron depot”, which is used both with an excess and a lack of this microelement. In tissues, however, Fe is in the form of hemosiderin. Serum iron is determined in conjunction with the transport protein transferrin. This complex is used by the body as needed, while tissue and intracellular reserves remain intact.

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Functions

Iron is essential for the body. In plasma, this element is in a complex with a transport protein. Thanks to this “tandem”, the free oxygen that comes in during breathing is bound, which is subsequently supplied to all organs and tissues. Whey iron is involved in many energy processes and redox reactions:

• DNA synthesis;
• cholesterol metabolism;
• the process of hematopoiesis;
• detoxification processes.

The norm of serum iron

When assessing the serum concentration of a trace element, the alimentary-dependent nature of this indicator should be taken into account. The intake of iron in the body occurs along with food, so a moderate decrease in the concentration of bound transferrin during a non-strict diet or taking drugs that prevent the absorption of Fe is considered a physiological phenomenon that can be easily eliminated by dietary adjustments.

When a serious iron deficiency is detected, appropriate medical treatment is prescribed. It should be borne in mind that in the morning the serum contains a little more of this microelement than in the evening. With all this, the indicator of serum Fe may vary in patients belonging to different age categories.

Among women

In the body of the fairer sex, iron metabolism proceeds under the influence of a constantly changing hormonal background, therefore, the rate of serum iron in the blood of women is slightly underestimated and is about 10.7-21.5 µmol / l, which is mainly due to menstruation. During pregnancy, the content of plasma Fe can also decrease significantly. So, during gestation, this indicator should not fall below 10.0 µmol / l.

In men

Subject to a balanced diet and adherence to the daily regimen, the iron reserves of the stronger sex are consumed in the optimal mode. A decrease in ferritin inside cells in men occurs due to liver disease, which often occurs against the background of abuse (or even poisoning) of alcoholic beverages and their surrogates. The normal indicator of serum iron in men is in the range from 14.0 to 30.4 µmol / l.

In children

The content of Fe in the blood of young patients varies depending on their age, weight and height. Children under one year of age who are exclusively breastfed are subject to a slight decrease in hemoglobin. This fact is due to the limited content of the so-called heme iron in the body of babies, which is not a cause for concern. The norm of serum Fe in children under one year old is 7-18 µmol/l, and in older children this figure can reach 9-21 µmol/l.

Serum iron is low

Most patients tend to suffer from Fe deficiency. This condition often manifests itself as a latent deficiency. In other cases, iron deficiency is accompanied by pronounced symptoms. People suffering from anemia have severe headaches, muscle weakness, and fatigue. The serum Fe in these patients is less than 9 µmol/L. The reasons for the decrease in the concentration of iron are as follows:

• chronic diseases;
• malnutrition and vitamin deficiency;
• kidney failure;
• Iron-deficiency anemia
• pregnancy, lactation;
• destruction of red blood cells;
• violation of iron absorption in intestinal diseases;
• oncology.

Serum iron increased

This condition is very rare. In patients with elevated levels of plasma iron, or hemochromatosis, there is yellowing of the eyeballs and skin, heart rhythm disturbance, weight loss. In the course of instrumental studies, such patients show an enlarged liver, myocardial dystrophy, and pancreatic dysfunction. Excess iron (about kmol / l) negatively affects the work of all organs and systems. Iron in the blood serum is increased, as a rule, against the background of the following pathologies:

• subcutaneous hemorrhages;
• primary hemochromatosis;
• taking iron-containing drugs;
• metabolic disorders;
• lack of folic acid;
• chronic liver diseases.

Blood test for serum iron

This laboratory test is prescribed not only for patients with various pathologies, but also for ordinary patients during the annual preventive examination. The degree of absorption of iron directly affects the functioning of the whole organism, therefore it is very important to periodically check the accumulation of this element. This is especially true for women during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What shows

Plasma iron is in a bound state. Diagnosis of anemia is based on the determination of the concentration of transferrin. The iron-binding capacity of serum reflects the so-called TIBC index. In order to detect tissue deficiency, the content of ferritin inside the cells is determined. Any abnormalities identified during a biochemical blood test are the reason for the appointment of additional laboratory tests.

How to take

Given that the early morning is characterized by a slightly increased serum Fe, experts recommend checking the degree of saturation with this element a little later. As a rule, the study of plasma for iron content is carried out from 8 to 10 in the morning. The test is taken on an empty stomach. The day before blood sampling, you should refrain from eating fatty foods and drinking alcohol.

How to increase serum iron in the blood

The loss of protein (enzymes) and the lack of vitamins negatively affect the absorption of Fe, therefore, if you follow a strict diet, pay special attention to eating foods rich in this trace element (meat, liver, eggs, sea fish). With a significant iron deficiency, tablets are prescribed. The intestines absorb about 1 g of Fe. Removal of excess occurs with sweat and feces. By eating a balanced diet, you provide your body with approximately 15 mg of heme (easily digestible) iron.

Serum iron: normal, high, low. Serum iron during pregnancy

Serum iron is a vital trace element that provides the binding, transport and transfer of oxygen to tissues, as well as participating in the processes of tissue respiration.

Serum Iron Functions

The total amount of iron contained in the human body reaches 4-5 grams. Of course, it is difficult to find it in its pure form, but it is part of such porphyrin compounds as hemoglobin (up to 80% of its total amount), myoglobin (5-10%), cytochromes, as well as myeloperoxidase and catalase myeloenzymes. Up to 25% of iron in the body is not used and is considered a reserve, being in the depot (spleen, liver, bone marrow) in the form of ferritin and hemosiderin. Heme iron, which mainly performs the function of reversible oxygen binding and transport to tissues, is mainly found in enzymes. In addition, iron is directly involved in a number of redox reactions, hematopoiesis, collagen synthesis, and the immune system.

Entry routes

Iron enters the body mainly with food. The product with the highest content is considered to be meat, namely beef. Other foods rich in this trace element are liver, fish, buckwheat, beans, eggs. Vitamin C, which is found in fresh greens and other plant foods, promotes optimal absorption of iron (which is why nutritionists recommend serving fresh vegetables with meat). Of the amount that comes with food, as a rule, from 10 to 15% is absorbed. Absorption occurs in the duodenum. That is why most often low serum iron is the result of various pathologies of the intestinal tract. Its concentration also depends on the amount of deposited iron stored in the spleen, intestines, bone marrow, and on the level of synthesis and breakdown of hemoglobin in the body. Physiological losses of the microelement occur with feces, urine, sweat, as well as with nails and hair.

Serum iron: normal

Iron is one of those micronutrients whose levels change throughout the day. In the morning, its indicators are higher, and in the evening they decrease. In addition, they depend on the age and gender of the person. Serum iron in women, as a rule, is lower than in men, while its concentration is directly related to the menstrual cycle (in the luteal phase, its content is maximum, and after menstruation, its indicators decrease). Stress, overwork and lack of sleep also affect the level of this trace element.

Serum iron, the norm of which in men is 11.64-30.43, and in women - 8.95-30.43 µmol / liter, also changes depending on the time of day. Its maximum concentration is fixed in the morning, and during the day the indicators decrease. In infants under one year old, the range of 7.16–17.90 is considered normal. In children from one to fourteen years old, the norm is 8.95–21.48.

Serum iron during pregnancy, especially in the second half, is slightly reduced. This is due to the formation of organs in the fetus. In general, its level should not fall below 10 (otherwise it will be considered anemia) and exceed 30 µmol / liter.

Serum iron low

Despite the relative instability of the level of this indicator in the blood, its study is very important for differential diagnosis and monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment of such pathologies as anemia, which are the most common human diseases. They can proceed both imperceptibly and cause severe disturbances in the functioning of the body. In some cases, anemia can be fatal. Outwardly, a decrease in the level of iron is manifested by general weakness, drowsiness, dizziness, and headaches. In addition, fragility of hair and nail plates, cracks in the corners of the mouth, violations of taste and smell are noted. The skin is pale, dry, unmotivated subfebrile condition is possible (the temperature rises to 37-37.5).

Causes of a decrease in serum iron

Serum iron in plasma can decrease for many reasons. Some of them are caused by external factors, while others are the result of internal changes. The most common of these are the following:

iron deficiency anemia - the disease can be caused by chronic blood loss, lack of iron intake into the body or impaired absorption;

chronic systemic diseases - lupus erythematosus, tuberculosis, rheumatoid arthritis, endocarditis, Crohn's disease;

resection of the intestine or stomach;

Increased content (hemochromatosis)

Elevated serum iron is a rather serious pathology, the consequence of which can be the development of many life-threatening conditions up to the development of oncological processes in the liver and intestines. Symptoms are similar to those of hepatitis. Yellowness of the skin appears, the liver enlarges, weight loss occurs, arrhythmias begin. Due to the fact that excess iron is deposited in organs such as the heart, pancreas, malfunctions begin in their normal operation. In addition, the development of pathologies such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease can become a consequence of hemochromatosis.

Reasons for the increase

An increased content of iron in the blood plasma can cause a pathology such as hereditary hemochromatosis, in which there is a high assimilation of iron from incoming food. Its excess is deposited in various organs, causing various disturbances in their work. The following factors can also cause an increase in the amount of serum iron:

thalassemia is a pathology in which the structure of hemoglobin changes;

transfusion of blood in large quantities;

In children, hemochromatosis can cause acute iron poisoning.

How to take an analysis?

Blood sampling is carried out from a vein in the morning. At least eight hours must have passed since the last meal. It is undesirable to chew gum and brush your teeth before taking the test. The reliability of the data obtained can be influenced by the following factors:

taking even one iron-containing tablet can significantly increase the concentration of iron;

oral contraceptives and alcohol also increase trace element levels;

"Metformin", testosterone and aspirin in large doses reduce the concentration of iron;

the use of cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12), even two days before the upcoming analysis, also increases the concentration;

menstruation, lack of sleep, stressful situations reduce iron levels.

Iron in the body: norms in the blood, low and high in the analysis - causes and treatment

The human body contains almost all the elements of the table of D. I. Mendeleev, but not all of them carry such biological significance as iron. Iron in the blood is most concentrated in red blood cells - erythrocytes, namely, in their important component - hemoglobin: heme (Fe ++) + protein (globin).

A certain amount of this chemical element is permanently present in plasma and tissues - as a complex compound with the transferrin protein and as part of ferritin and hemosiderin. In the body of an adult, there should normally be from 4 to 7 grams of iron. The loss of an element for any reason entails an iron deficiency condition called anemia. To identify this pathology in laboratory diagnostics, such a study as the determination of serum iron, or iron in the blood, as the patients themselves say, is provided.

The rate of iron in the body

In the blood serum, iron is found in combination with a protein that binds and transports it - transferrin (25% Fe). Usually, the reason for calculating the concentration of an element in the blood serum (serum iron) is a low level of hemoglobin, which, as you know, is one of the main parameters of a general blood test.

The level of iron in the blood fluctuates throughout the day, its average concentration for men and women is different and is: 14.10 μmol per liter of male blood and 10.70 - 21.50 μmol / l in the female half. Such differences are most due to the menstrual cycle, which affects only persons of a certain sex. With age, the differences are erased, the amount of the element decreases in both men and women, and iron deficiency can be observed to the same extent in both sexes. The rate of iron in the blood of infants, as well as children and adults, males and females, is different, therefore, to make it more convenient for the reader, it is better to present it in the form of a small table:

Meanwhile, it should be borne in mind that, like other biochemical indicators, the normal level of iron in the blood in different sources may vary slightly. In addition, we consider it useful to remind the reader of the rules for passing the analysis:

• They donate blood on an empty stomach (it is desirable to starve for 12 hours);
• One week before the study, tablets for the treatment of IDA are canceled;
• After a blood transfusion, the analysis is postponed for several days.

To determine the level of iron in the blood, serum is used as a biological material, that is, blood is taken without an anticoagulant in a dry new test tube that never comes into contact with detergents.

The functions of iron in the blood and the biological significance of the element

Why is so much attention riveted to iron in the blood, why is this element classified as a vital component, and why can a living organism do without it? It's all about the functions that iron performs:

1. Concentrated in the blood ferrum (heme hemoglobin) is involved in the respiration of tissues;
2. The microelement located in the muscles (as part of myoglobin) ensures the normal activity of skeletal muscles.

The main functions of iron in the blood coincide with one of the main tasks of the blood itself and the hemoglobin contained in it. Blood (erythrocytes and hemoglobin) takes oxygen from the external environment into the lungs and transports it to the most remote corners of the human body, and carbon dioxide formed as a result of tissue respiration is carried out for removal from the body.

scheme: myshared, Efremova S.A.

Thus, iron plays a key role in the respiratory activity of hemoglobin, and this applies only to the divalent ion (Fe ++). The conversion of ferrous iron to ferric iron and the formation of a very strong compound called methemoglobin (MetHb) occurs under the influence of strong oxidizing agents. Degeneratively altered erythrocytes containing MetHb begin to break down (hemolysis), therefore they cannot perform their respiratory functions - a state of acute hypoxia sets in for body tissues.

A person himself cannot synthesize this chemical element; food products bring iron to his body: meat, fish, vegetables and fruits. However, it is difficult for us to absorb iron from plant sources, but vegetables and fruits containing large amounts of ascorbic acid increase the absorption of the trace element from animal products by 2-3 times.

Fe is absorbed in the duodenum and along the small intestine, and iron deficiency in the body contributes to increased absorption, and an excess causes a blockage of this process. The large intestine does not absorb iron. During the day, we absorb an average of 2 - 2.5 mg of Fe, but the female body of this element needs almost 2 times more than the male body, because monthly losses are quite noticeable (1 mg of iron is lost from 2 ml of blood).

Increased content

An elevated iron content in a biochemical blood test, just like a lack of an element in the serum, indicates certain pathological conditions of the body.

Given that we have a mechanism that prevents the absorption of excess iron, an increase in it may be due to the formation of ferrum as a result of pathological reactions somewhere in the body (increased breakdown of red blood cells and the release of iron ions) or a breakdown in the mechanism that regulates intake. An increase in iron levels makes one suspect:

• Anemia of various origins (hemolytic, aplastic, B 12, folic acid deficiency, thalassemia);
• Excessive absorption in the gastrointestinal tract in violation of the limiting mechanism (hemochromatosis).
• Hemosiderosis caused by multiple blood transfusions or an overdose of ferrum-containing drugs used to treat and prevent iron deficiency conditions (intramuscular or intravenous administration).
• Failure of hematopoiesis in the bone marrow at the stage of iron incorporation into erythrocyte precursor cells (sideroahrestic anemia, lead poisoning, use of oral contraceptives).
• Liver damage (viral and acute hepatitis of any origin, acute liver necrosis, chronic cholecystitis, various hepatopathy).

When determining iron in the blood, one should keep in mind the cases when the patient received iron-containing preparations in tablets for a long time (2-3 months).

Lack of iron in the body

Due to the fact that we do not produce this trace element ourselves, we often do not look at the nutrition and composition of the consumed products (if only it was tasty), over time our body begins to experience iron deficiency.

Fe deficiency is accompanied by various symptoms of anemia: headache, dizziness, flies before the eyes, pallor and dry skin, hair loss, brittle nails and many other troubles. The reduced value of iron in the blood can be the result of many reasons:

1. Alimentary deficiency, which develops as a result of a low intake of an element with food (a preference for vegetarianism or, conversely, a passion for fatty foods that do not contain iron, or a transition to a dairy diet that contains calcium and prevents the absorption of Fe).
2. The high needs of the body for any trace elements (children under 2 years of age, adolescents, pregnant women and nursing mothers) lead to a reduced content of them in the blood (this concerns iron in the first place).
3. Iron deficiency anemia as a result of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract that prevent the normal absorption of iron in the intestines: gastritis with reduced secretion, enteritis, enterocolitis, neoplasms in the stomach and intestines, surgical interventions with resection of the stomach or small intestine (resorption deficiency).
4. Redistributive deficiency against the background of inflammatory, purulent-septic and other infections, fast-growing tumors, osteomyelitis, rheumatism, myocardial infarction (absorption of iron from plasma by cellular elements of the mononuclear phagocytic system) - in the blood test, the amount of Fe will, of course, be reduced.
5. Excessive accumulation of hemosiderin in the tissues of the internal organs (hemosiderosis) leads to a low level of iron in the plasma, which is very noticeable when examining the patient's serum.
6. Lack of erythropoietin production in the kidneys as a manifestation of chronic renal failure (CRF) or other kidney pathology.
7. Increased excretion of iron in the urine in nephrotic syndrome.
8. The reason for the low content of iron in the blood and the development of IDA can be prolonged bleeding (nose, gums, during menstruation, from hemorrhoids, etc.).
9. Active hematopoiesis with significant use of the element.
10. Cirrhosis, liver cancer. Other malignant and some benign (uterine fibroids) tumors.
11. Stagnation of bile in the biliary tract (cholestasis) with the development of obstructive jaundice.
12. Lack of ascorbic acid in the diet, which promotes the absorption of iron from other foods.

How to raise?

In order to increase the level of iron in the blood, you need to accurately identify the cause of its decrease. After all, you can consume as many microelements as you like with food, but all efforts will be in vain if their absorption is impaired.

Thus, we will only provide transit through the gastrointestinal tract, but we will not find out the true cause of the low Fe content in the body, so first you need to undergo a comprehensive examination and listen to the recommendations of your doctor.

And we can only advise to increase with the help of a diet rich in iron:

• The use of meat products (veal, beef, hot lamb, rabbit meat). Poultry meat is not particularly rich in the element, but if you choose, then turkey and goose are better. Pork fat contains absolutely no iron, so it should not be considered.
• There is a lot of Fe in the liver of various animals, which is not surprising, it is a hematopoietic organ, but at the same time, the liver is a detoxification organ, so excessive passion can be unhealthy.
• There is little or no iron in the eggs, but they have a high content of vitamins B12, B1 and phospholipids.

• Buckwheat is recognized as the best cereal for the treatment of IDA.
• Cottage cheese, cheeses, milk, white bread, being calcium-containing foods, inhibit the absorption of iron, so these foods should be consumed separately from a diet aimed at combating low levels of ferrum.
• To increase the absorption of the element in the intestine, you will have to dilute the protein diet with vegetables and fruits containing ascorbic acid (vitamin C). It is concentrated in large quantities in citrus fruits (lemon, orange) and sauerkraut. In addition, some plant foods are themselves rich in iron (apples, prunes, peas, beans, spinach), but iron is absorbed very limitedly from food of non-animal origin.

When increasing iron through diet, you do not need to be afraid that it will become too much. This will not happen, because we have a mechanism that will not allow excessive increase, of course, if it works correctly.

Serum iron in the blood: normal, high, low

Iron in the human body is a necessary element, without which many processes and normal life are impossible. Doctors set the norm of iron in the blood. The human body contains 4 to 5 grams of iron. The blood contains 80% of this volume. The remaining 20% ​​is distributed between the liver, spleen and bone marrow. Only 75% of iron is constantly used by human tissues, and the remaining 25% is a reserve that allows you to recover from blood loss and a temporary lack of the substance. In severe cases, when the reserve volume is used up, persistent iron deficiency is noted.

During a biochemical blood test, an indicator of serum iron is determined, which shows the most accurate level of a substance in the body. There are many reasons to get tested for serum iron. It is very important not to miss both the decrease and the increase in the level of iron in the blood.

Why is iron needed in the body?

The rate of iron in the body shows how much of this element a person needs to maintain many vital processes, which include:

the formation of hemoglobin (with a lack of which iron deficiency anemia develops);

maintaining the proper functioning of the thyroid gland;

ensuring the full absorption of vitamin B;

production of a number of enzymes (including those involved in the construction of DNA);

ensuring the normal growth process in the child;

maintaining a healthy immune system;

neutralization of toxins in the liver;

production of oxidative enzymes;

maintaining good condition of hair, skin and nails.

Since this chemical element is involved in the main processes in the body, its deficiency is dangerous and can lead to serious consequences. Knowing that a condition such as impaired iron content in the blood can have an extremely negative impact on health, one must be attentive to one's well-being so as not to miss the first symptoms of the pathology.

Routes of iron entry into the body

To maintain the norm of iron in the blood, its sufficient intake into the body is required. The main source of iron in the body is food. The maximum absorption of the element occurs if its consumption is combined with a dose of vitamin C, which is rich in greens such as parsley and dill.

The following products, presented in the table, contain the largest amount of iron available to humans:

Read more about nutrition with iron deficiency in our article Foods containing iron.

However, one should not overly lean on foods that contain a high content of the necessary substance, since an excess of iron in the body may form, which will not benefit in the same way as its deficiency, and measures will need to be taken to lower it.

Iron absorption in humans occurs in the duodenum, which is why, with a deficiency of this element, the condition of the intestine is first checked.

Norm of iron in the blood

The international norm of serum iron in the blood has been adopted, which is used by all doctors to detect pathologies. Until the age of 14, serum iron in the blood has the same norms, but later its lower limit in an adult, depending on gender, turns out to be different. Normal for each age category is its own indicator of iron in the human body, the values ​​​​are given in the table

Read also our article on this topic Iron in the female body.

The standards for how much iron should be are quite flexible due to the peculiarities of its perception by tissues. Also, certain products can increase the indicator to some extent.

Deviation from the norm, both up and down, is a pathology and requires therapy. Excess iron, due to the fact that with it there are risks of serious diseases, is even more dangerous than its deficiency.

Fluctuations in the rate of iron in women deserve special attention, since for them during pregnancy this element is required in a larger volume. Their rate is increased by one and a half times.

Causes of low iron levels

Iron levels in a biochemical blood test can be low for a number of reasons. The main factors by which the indicator can be reduced, doctors consider:

deficiency of iron intake with food;

irregular nutrition - iron deficiency means that the body does not have time to replenish reserves without getting enough nutrients .;

an increase in the need for an element - takes place during the recovery period after serious illnesses, blood loss, as well as during pregnancy, when the body needs everything in an additional volume for the normal formation of the fetus;

pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to the inability to absorb iron;

systemic lupus erythematosus - SLE;

malignant neoplasms in the gastrointestinal tract;

severe purulent-inflammatory diseases;

an excess of hemosiderin in tissues and internal organs;

lack of production of erythropoietin by the kidneys in renal failure;

excretion of large amounts of iron by the kidneys in nephrotic syndrome;

deficiency of ascorbic acid in food.

In order to accurately establish the reasons why the level of iron in the blood is low, a complete examination is required. The only exceptions are cases where iron deficiency is obvious, as in pregnancy, blood loss and malnutrition.

Symptoms of iron deficiency

Read about the features of iron deficiency in women in the article Iron deficiency in women: symptoms, causes, treatment.

A low level of a substance in the body has certain symptoms that should alert. The following manifestations indicate that there is not enough iron in the human body:

migrating pains in the body;

dry mucous membranes;

some difficulty in swallowing food;

developmental delay in children - not only physical, but also mental;

increased fragility of nails;

a change in the normal shape of the nails to a spoon-shaped one - the appearance of "watch glasses", or a symptom of chronic hypoxia. It may also indicate chronic pulmonary insufficiency;

low body temperature;

dysfunction of the thyroid gland.

All these manifestations are direct indications in order to check the level of serum iron in the body. The doctor issues a referral for a biochemical blood test and, after receiving its results, determines the level of iron in the blood serum and whether there is a need for therapy. With a low iron content, a diet is necessarily prescribed and then a treatment is selected that will be optimal for a particular patient.

Causes of high iron in the body

An increased level of iron in the body is no less dangerous than a lower one. If the daily intake of a substance is too high, it can even lead to death. A deadly dose of iron is considered to be 7 g or more. An increase in serum iron in the blood in humans is noted for the following reasons:

excessive intake of the substance with food - can also appear with a high content of iron in the water;

diseases of the pancreas;

pathology of the spleen - an organ from the reserve concentrated in it begins to release more of the element than necessary, which causes an excess of iron;

liver pathology - with them, an incorrect distribution of the substance occurs: its excess in the blood and lack in the organ;

large blood transfusion;

improper use of iron-containing drugs - in this case, a person receives too much iron, which leads to the fact that it becomes higher than normal. You should use iron-containing preparations only at the rate indicated by the doctor, and not prescribe them to yourself arbitrarily;

chronic alcoholism - with it, the process of assimilation and excretion of substances from the body is disrupted, due to which iron in the blood rises;

iron metabolism disorders;

anemia associated with a deficiency in the formation of red blood cells;

hemolytic anemia - in pathology, an excessively rapid destruction of erythrocytes is observed with the release of iron from them, which causes its significant increase;

deficiency in the body of vitamin B12;

poor absorption of the substance by tissues;

Increased iron in the blood certainly requires treatment - lowering the level to an acceptable norm. In cases where there is an increase in the level of iron in the blood, we can talk about the development of serious diseases, and therefore a person must definitely undergo an examination.

Manifestation of excess iron in the body

Elevated serum iron is always manifested by special symptoms, which should not be ignored and the violations should not be attributed to simple overwork. It is necessary to visit a doctor and check whether iron is normally present in the blood with the following phenomena:

frequent headache;

general loss of strength

frequent nausea, up to vomiting;

alternating diarrhea and constipation;

However, it must be emphasized that these symptoms do not always indicate that serum iron is elevated, but only in 90% of cases. The remaining 10%, when the cause of poor health is not an excess of iron, are associated with severe pathologies of internal organs, including oncology and systemic diseases.

Complications of increased iron in the blood

Increased iron content in the body increases the likelihood of developing a number of diseases. According to medical data, such a pathology can provoke the following diseases:

These complications of the condition are also a reason not to ignore the increase in iron levels in the blood. If the problem is detected in time, in most cases it is solved effectively and the norm of iron content in the blood is restored.

How is the analysis going?

Exactly what it is - an analysis for a high or low iron level - can always be informed by a doctor. The study is carried out on the basis of material obtained from a vein. The analysis requires serum, and therefore the blood is passed through a centrifuge. Further, with the help of special reagents, iron in the serum is detected. Today, the analysis has been introduced in all medical institutions, so it is almost always possible to check the iron indicator near the house. Iron is detected precisely from the blood serum.

How to prepare for analysis

In order for the value of the analysis to be accurate, it is necessary to properly prepare for it. Blood sampling is carried out from 8 to 11 am. The last meal can be no later than 8 hours before the delivery of the material. Drinking is allowed without restrictions, but only clean, non-carbonated water. 3 days before blood donation, it is required to give up alcohol and oral contraceptives, as they will distort normal readings, because they can raise iron.

Due to the fact that many drugs can interfere with the result of biochemistry, the doctor accurately instructs the person about which ones can be used and which cannot.

It is undesirable to take tests during menstruation, as the indicators will be with large errors due to the presence of bleeding. In such a situation, if possible, you need to postpone the day of sampling, and if it is not possible, then you need to inform the nurse so that she can indicate this on the test tube with the material. The importance of a blood test for iron levels cannot be underestimated.

Serum iron. Iron in the blood, the norm, what does the change in indicators indicate?

Frequently asked Questions

The site provides background information. Adequate diagnosis and treatment of the disease is possible under the supervision of a conscientious physician.

All inorganic substances are divided into microelements and macroelements. It depends on the mass fraction of the element. Trace elements include iron, copper, zinc and others. Macronutrients include calcium, sodium, potassium and others.

Why is iron needed in the body?

• functional iron. Functional iron is part of hemoglobin (an iron-containing protein in erythrocytes that captures and carries oxygen to the organs and tissues of the body), myoglobin (an oxygen-containing protein in skeletal muscles and heart muscles that creates oxygen reserves), enzymes (specific proteins that change the rate of chemical reactions in the body). Functional iron is involved in many body processes and is constantly used.
• Transport iron. Transport iron is the amount of an element that is transferred from the source of iron into the body to each of its cells. Transport iron is not involved in the functions of the body. It is part of the carrier proteins - transferrin (the main carrier protein of iron ions in blood plasma), lactoferrin (carrier protein found in breast milk, tears, saliva and other secretory fluids) and mobilferrin ( iron ion carrier protein in the cell).
• deposited iron. Part of the iron that enters the body is deposited “in reserve”. Iron is deposited in various organs and tissues, mainly in the liver and spleen. Iron is deposited in the form of ferritin (a water-soluble complex protein complex that is the main intracellular iron depot) or hemosiderin (an iron-containing pigment formed during the breakdown of hemoglobin).
• Free iron. Free iron or free pool is iron that is not bound to proteins inside cells, formed as a result of the release of iron from a triple complex - iron, apotransferrin (a protein precursor of transferrin) and a receptor (a molecule on the cell surface that attaches molecules of various chemicals and transmits regulatory signals) . In its free form, iron is highly toxic. Therefore, free iron is transported within the cell by mobilferrin or deposited with ferritin.

By localization in the body are distinguished:

• Heme iron (cellular). Heme iron makes up the bulk of the total iron content in the human body - up to 70 - 75%. Participates in the internal exchange of iron ions and is part of hemoglobin, myoglobin and many enzymes (substances that accelerate chemical reactions in the body).
• Non-heme iron. Non-heme iron is divided into extracellular and deposited iron. Extracellular iron includes free plasma iron and iron-binding transport proteins - transferrin, lactoferrin, mobilferrin. Deposited iron is found in the body in the form of two protein compounds - ferritin and hemosiderin.

The main functions of iron are:

• transport of oxygen to tissues - the composition of the erythrocyte includes hemoglobin, the molecules of which contain 4 iron atoms each; iron in the composition of hemoglobin binds and transports oxygen from the lungs to all cells of the body;
• participation in the processes of hematopoiesis - the bone marrow uses iron to synthesize hemoglobin, which is part of red blood cells;
• detoxification of the body - iron is necessary for the synthesis of liver enzymes involved in the destruction of toxins;
• regulation of immunity and an increase in the tone of the body - iron affects the composition of the blood, the level of leukocytes necessary to maintain immunity;
• participation in the process of cell division - iron is part of proteins and enzymes involved in DNA synthesis;
• hormone synthesis - iron is necessary for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which regulates the metabolism in the body;
• providing cells with energy - iron delivers oxygen to the energy molecules of the protein.

Iron enters the human body from the external environment along with food. It is found in red meat (especially rabbit meat), dark poultry meat (especially turkey meat), dried mushrooms, legumes, vegetables, fruits, cocoa. The daily need for iron is on average 6-40 milligrams. The toxic dose of iron is 150-200 mg, the lethal dose is 7-35 g.

Iron in the body is found in different concentrations depending on the type of iron, as well as gender.

What is serum iron and what is the norm of iron in the blood? Why is a serum iron test performed?

• diagnosis, differential diagnosis (distinguishing one pathology from another with similar symptoms) and monitoring the treatment of anemia (a pathological condition characterized by a low content of hemoglobin in red blood cells);
• diagnosis of hemochromatosis (a hereditary disease characterized by impaired iron metabolism);
• diagnosis of intoxication (poisoning) with iron;
• malnutrition, hypovitaminosis (lack of vitamins);
• various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, in which the normal absorption of iron is disrupted;
• identified deviations in the results of a general blood test (erythrocytes, hematocrit);
• bleeding of various etiologies (profuse prolonged menstruation, bleeding gums, bleeding from hemorrhoids, stomach or duodenal ulcers, and others).

Serum iron analysis is carried out for:

• assessment of iron stores in the body;
• calculating the percent saturation of transferrin with iron (i.e. determining the concentration of iron carried by the blood);
• differential diagnosis of anemia;
• control of anemia treatment;
• control of treatment with iron preparations;
• diagnosis of genetic diseases of iron metabolism disorders.

When receiving tests, the doctor focuses on the gender and age of the patient. The results obtained may be within the normal range, below or above the norm. If the iron level is below normal, the patient has an iron deficiency. If the level of iron is higher than normal, there is an excess of iron in the patient's body. When interpreting the results obtained, many factors should be taken into account - nutrition, medication, the woman's menstrual cycle, and others. Do not forget about the daily fluctuation of the concentration of iron in the blood. Thus, the maximum daily concentration of iron in the blood is observed in the morning. In women, in the period before and during menstruation, the concentration of iron in the blood is higher than after the end of menstruation. Therefore, an analysis for serum iron should be taken after the cessation of menstruation. Random fluctuations in the level of iron in the blood can also be observed, for example, with a sharp increase in the consumption of meat in the patient's diet.

• acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug;
• methotrexate - an antitumor agent;
• multivitamins containing iron;
• oral contraceptives - birth control pills;
• antibiotics - methicillin, chloramphenicol, cefotaxime;
• preparations containing estrogens (female sex hormones).

Drugs that lower the level of iron in the blood are:

• acetylsalicylic acid in high doses is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug;
• allopurinol - a drug that lowers the level of uric acid in the blood;
• cortisol is a glucocorticoid hormone;
• metformin - a tableted hypoglycemic agent (lowering blood sugar levels);
• corticotropin - a preparation of adrenocorticotropic hormone;
• cholestyramine - a lipid-lowering agent (reducing the level of fats in the blood);
• asparaginase is an antitumor agent;
• preparations containing testosterone - the male sex hormone.

In order to obtain reliable results of the level of iron in the blood, it is necessary to properly prepare the patient for diagnosis.

How to prepare for a serum iron test?

• a week before the test for serum iron, stop taking medications and complexes of iron-containing vitamins;
• postpone the analysis of serum iron for several days after hemotransfusion (blood transfusion);
• explain to the patient that for the analysis of serum iron it will be necessary to take a blood sample, explain the essence of the procedure, warn about discomfort when applying a tourniquet and puncturing (piercing) a vein;
• describe the daily routine and nutrition that the patient must follow.

The general requirements for a blood test for serum iron are:

• taking the test blood on an empty stomach;
• exclusion of smoking, alcohol and fatty foods, physical activity 12 hours before the analysis;
• taking the test material before any diagnostic procedures (radiography, computed tomography);
• the absence of viral and inflammatory diseases in the patient.

What should be the level of serum iron during pregnancy?

• an increase in blood volume by 50%, and, consequently, a 2-fold increase in the need for iron to produce hemoglobin (an iron-containing protein that transports blood);
• significant iron intake from the maternal iron depot for the formation of the placenta, erythrocytes (red blood cells that transport oxygen) of the fetus;
• iron deficiency anemia (anemia is a condition characterized by low levels of hemoglobin in the blood) before pregnancy, which exacerbates iron deficiency during pregnancy.

In addition to the normal physiological loss of iron in pregnant women, daily iron consumption increases. In the first trimester, additional iron costs are 0.8 milligrams per day, in the second trimester - 4-5 milligrams per day, in the third trimester - up to 6.5 milligrams per day. 400 milligrams of iron are needed for the development of the fetus, 50-75 milligrams of iron for the enlarged uterus, 100 milligrams of iron is needed for the construction of the placenta, through which the fetus is supported. In general, for the normal course of pregnancy and childbirth, the expectant mother needs about 800 milligrams of iron additionally. During pregnancy and childbirth (without complications), about 650 milligrams of iron is consumed.

For a pregnant woman and her unborn baby, both iron deficiency and its excess are equally dangerous. If the body of a pregnant woman does not receive the necessary daily intake of iron, then its reserves are quickly depleted. This leads to iron deficiency (serum iron level of 30 µmol/l) and also negatively affects the course of pregnancy and the health of the fetus. Excess iron can be observed in hereditary diseases with impaired iron metabolism and excessive intake of iron into the body (uncontrolled intake of iron-containing drugs). Excessive iron in the blood of a pregnant woman can cause the development of gestational diabetes (a pathology in which there is high blood sugar in a pregnant woman), preeclampsia (complications of pregnancy after 20 weeks, characterized by high blood pressure and high protein in the urine), miscarriage . Therefore, iron supplements should be taken under the strict supervision of a physician.

• Sorbifer durules. This drug contains 100 milligrams of iron per tablet and vitamin C to improve iron absorption from the intestines. During pregnancy, in order to prevent iron deficiency, 1 tablet per day is prescribed, for treatment - 1 tablet in the morning and evening.
• Ferroplex. Dragees contain 50 milligrams of iron and vitamin C. Take 2 tablets 3 times a day.
• Totem. Totem is a solution containing 50 milligrams of iron. For prophylaxis, it is prescribed orally 1 ampoule per day from 4 months of pregnancy. In large doses, totem is prescribed only for laboratory-confirmed iron deficiency anemia. It is prescribed 2-4 ampoules per day.
• Fenyuls. The capsules contain 45 milligrams of iron. For prevention, take 1 capsule per day from the 14th week of pregnancy. After taking the drug daily for 2 weeks, take a week break, and then continue taking the drug again.

Side effects of iron supplements include nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea. The stool will also turn black, which is normal. If side effects occur, you should consult a doctor. The doctor will reduce the dose of the iron preparation or cancel it altogether (if the patient's condition and laboratory parameters allow).

With the consumption of iron from reserves and its insufficient intake into the body, many processes in the body are disrupted. The symptoms become more pronounced. Severe iron deficiency leads to disease and serious complications.

• decreased immunity - the patient often suffers from viral and respiratory diseases;
• low body temperature, chilliness - body temperature is below 36.6 ° C, a person feels uncomfortable at low temperatures, he has constantly cold extremities;
• deterioration of memory, attention, learning rates - with iron deficiency, it is difficult for the patient to concentrate, remember information, there is frequent forgetfulness;
• decreased performance - the patient constantly feels tired, "broken", even after a good sleep;
• disruption of the gastrointestinal tract - loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, pain in the stomach, constipation, flatulence (excessive accumulation of gases in the intestinal lumen), the appearance of belching and heartburn;
• increased fatigue, weakness in the muscles - the patient observes increased fatigue even after a short activity, also notes weakness in the muscles during physical exertion and at rest;
• neurological disorders - increased irritability, irascibility, depressive states, tearfulness, migrating pains (headaches, in the heart area);
• delayed mental and physical development in children - a lack of iron leads to oxygen starvation, which negatively affects the central nervous system of the child, the development of the cardiovascular system and others;
• geophagia (perversion of nutrition) - with iron deficiency, a person can start eating inedible objects - chalk, earth, sand;
• dryness, pallor of the skin and mucous membranes - the skin becomes dry, begins to peel off, cracks and pronounced wrinkles appear, wounds form in the corners of the mouth (cheilitis), stomatitis (inflammation of the mucous epithelium of the oral cavity);
• dryness, brittleness of nails and hair - with a lack of iron, the hair becomes dull, brittle, lose shine and volume, nails exfoliate and break easily;
• dizziness, loss of consciousness (fainting) - as a result of a decrease in the level of hemoglobin in the blood, the body suffers from oxygen starvation, this especially affects the brain, which is manifested by dizziness, short-term loss of consciousness, darkening in the eyes;
• shortness of breath, heart palpitations - iron deficiency leads to a lack of oxygen, which the body tries to compensate for by increasing breathing and heart rate.