Can Low Iron Make You Tired?

While everyone feels tired from time to time, it's not normal to be constantly fatigued. If you do find yourself more tired than normal lately, there are many things that may be causing this groggy feeling. One potential cause is an iron deficiency, which is also referred to as iron deficiency anemia (via Mayo Clinic). Specifically, anemia is a health condition that happens when there are not enough healthy red blood cells in your body to carry oxygen around your body. Oxygen is essential for humans to live and low oxygen levels can quickly leave you feeling fatigued and weak.

Other symptoms of iron deficiency anemia include pale skin, chest pain, shortness of breath, and a fast heartbeat. You may also experience headaches, dizziness, cold hands, and brittle nails. Talk to your doctor if you think you have an iron deficiency. They can help you determine if dietary changes or supplements are the best way to address this deficiency. Iron can be found in foods like dark leafy greens and red meat, but many people struggle to get enough iron in their diets through food alone. If that's the case, taking an iron supplement may be the best course of action.

Fatigue refers to when you feel especially tired or have a noticeable lack of energy (via WebMD). There are many, many different things that can cause fatigue, so it can be tricky to diagnose accurately. Allergies are a common cause of fatigue and can be treated with nasal steroids and antihistamines until you are able to find the underlying cause and remove it from your daily life. Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety can also cause extreme tiredness. Treatment options for mental health conditions include therapy and/or medication.

According to Cleveland Clinic, lifestyle habits can also cause fatigue. A poor diet that leaves you lacking in certain nutrients will probably leave you feeling tired most of the time. You can avoid this by eating a well-balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and carbohydrates. Excessive alcohol and drug use and a sedentary lifestyle can also make you feel overly tired. If you are unsure why you are experiencing your fatigue, speak with your doctor about your symptoms.