Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron deficiency anemia can be due to a lack of iron in the diet, and it is more common during pregnancy, when women have a higher need for iron. Certain conditions, such as celiac disease, can affect the body’s ability to absorb iron, leading to anemia. Blood loss is another cause of iron deficiency anemia, so women with particularly heavy periods can be at risk. Sometimes, an underlying health condition can cause bleeding and lead to iron deficiency anemia. For example, a hiatal hernia, peptic ulcer, or colon cancer could lead to anemia. Some people experience bleeding and develop iron deficiency anemia due to overuse of pain relievers like aspirin.