How to Treat Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron deficiency anemia occurs when there is a lack of healthy red blood cells due to not having enough iron in the blood.  Treatment for iron deficiency anemia varies depending on the cause and severity of the symptoms, but may include changes to the diet, supplements, medication or surgery.

Iron

• Take iron supplements that are prescribed by your doctor.


• Be careful to take them as prescribed, as taking iron in large amounts can be very harmful, even fatal.


• Eat foods that are a rich source of iron, including red meat, dark leafy vegetables, dried fruits, beans and prune juice.

Vitamin C

• Eat foods that are rich in vitamin C with foods that contain iron to increase the absorption of iron into the body.


• Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables including citrus fruits, broccoli, peppers, tomatoes, cabbage and leafy green vegetables.


• Try drinking a glass of orange juice with your iron supplement.

Blood Loss Treatment

• Discuss the best course of treatment with your doctor if your iron deficiency anemia is caused by heavy bleeding due to a bleeding ulcer, tumor or heavy menstrual bleeding.


• Ask about antibiotics or other medications to treat an ulcer.


• Discuss surgery to remove any polyps or cancerous growths.


• Talk to the doctor about treatment for heavy menstrual flow, such as birth control pills or surgery.

Blood Transfusion

• Discuss with the doctor if your iron-deficiency anemia is severe, as you may need to get a transfusion of red blood cells to treat the anemia right away.


• Discuss getting intravenous therapy with your doctor to treat iron deficiency anemia.