Understanding Iron Deficiency
What is Iron Deficiency?
Iron is essential for producing haemoglobin — the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to every cell in your body. When iron stores fall too low, haemoglobin production is impaired and oxygen delivery suffers throughout the body. The result is a constellation of symptoms that significantly affect quality of life — and yet many people go months or years without connecting their symptoms to their iron levels.
Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the UK. In Tolworth and the wider KT6 area — a community of diverse residents including families, commuters, and active individuals — it is remarkably prevalent, particularly among women of reproductive age and those with demanding physical or professional lives.
Symptoms of Iron Deficiency
Persistent fatigueExhaustion that rest does not resolve — the most universal symptom of low iron.
Brain fogPoor concentration, forgetfulness, reduced mental clarity.
BreathlessnessShortness of breath with everyday activities.
Hair thinning and lossNoticeable shedding or thinning — often the symptom that prompts seeking help.
Heart palpitationsThe heart working harder to maintain oxygen delivery with reduced haemoglobin.
Cold hands and feetPoor peripheral circulation resulting from reduced red blood cell function.
Who is Most at Risk?
- Women with heavy periods — chronic blood loss depletes iron faster than diet replenishes it
- Vegans and vegetarians — plant-based iron is significantly less bioavailable than haem iron from animal sources
- Athletes and very active individuals — high physical demands substantially increase iron requirements
- Post-surgical or post-partum patients — blood loss causes rapid iron depletion
- Those with IBD, coeliac disease, or gut surgery — gut conditions impair iron absorption
Iron Deficiency vs Iron Deficiency Anaemia
Iron deficiency describes depleted iron stores — low ferritin — which can cause significant symptoms even when haemoglobin remains in the normal range. Iron deficiency anaemia is the more advanced state where haemoglobin has also fallen below normal. Both can respond very well to IV iron therapy. Dr Nelson assesses the full picture — ferritin, haemoglobin, and transferrin saturation — before recommending treatment.
Why Oral Iron Tablets Often Fail
Only around 10–20% of oral iron is absorbed — and that proportion is further reduced in those with gut conditions or inflammation. The side effects of nausea, constipation, and stomach cramps cause many patients to stop taking their tablets within weeks. IV iron bypasses the gut entirely, delivering a full therapeutic dose directly into the bloodstream in a single clinical appointment. For Tolworth residents, that appointment is now a short walk or drive away.
