Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in Australia, particularly among women of reproductive age, vegetarians, and people with chronic conditions. We sat down with Dr. Tony Girgis to answer the questions he hears most often in the clinic.
What are the signs of iron deficiency?
The symptoms can be subtle and develop gradually, which is why many people don’t realise they’re iron deficient until it’s picked up on a blood test. Common signs include persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest, feeling short of breath during normal activities, pale skin, brittle nails, and difficulty concentrating.
Who’s most at risk?
- Women with heavy menstrual periods
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Vegetarians and vegans (plant-based iron is harder to absorb)
- People with coeliac disease or inflammatory bowel disease
- Regular blood donors
- Endurance athletes
When should I see my GP?
If you’re experiencing ongoing fatigue, unusual shortness of breath, or any of the symptoms above, a simple blood test can check your iron levels and stores (ferritin). It’s important not to self-diagnose or self-treat with iron supplements without medical guidance, as too much iron can also be harmful.
What about iron infusions?
Iron tablets are the first-line treatment for most people, but they don’t work for everyone. Some people experience significant side effects like nausea and constipation, or their levels don’t improve sufficiently with oral iron alone. In these cases, an intravenous iron infusion may be appropriate.
An iron infusion delivers iron directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. The procedure takes about 30–60 minutes in the clinic and most people notice an improvement in energy levels within a few weeks. We offer iron infusions at Cronulla Medical Practice — your GP will discuss whether this is the right option for you based on your blood results and medical history.
Iron infusions are covered by Medicare when clinically indicated. A referral is not required — your GP at Cronulla Medical Practice can assess your suitability and arrange the infusion in-house.