Medical Questions » Blood Questions » Question No. 135
| Question: | My doctor says I should take more iron because I get anaemic with heavy periods. Why does the body need a metal like iron? |
| Answer: | Iron is an essential element for the functioning of the human body.
The primary use of iron in the body is to be the core element in the manufacture of haemoglobin. This compound is found in red blood cells and transports the oxygen from the lungs to the organs. If iron levels are low, haemoglobin levels drop and the body becomes starved of oxygen. You then feel tired and weak, as oxygen is required by all cells to burn fuel for energy. Other symptoms can include pins and needles in the arms and legs, palpitations, abnormal fingernails and dizziness. |
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