Iron Serum Test

What is the purpose of this test?

The Iron Serum Test measures the amount of iron in your blood to help diagnose conditions related to iron levels in the body. Iron is a crucial mineral that your body needs to make hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Without enough iron, your body can't produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to conditions like iron deficiency anemia.

During the test, a blood sample is taken from your arm and sent to a lab for analysis. The results can show if you have too little or too much iron in your blood. Low iron levels might indicate anemia, poor diet, or chronic bleeding. High iron levels can be a sign of conditions like hemochromatosis or liver disease. By understanding your iron levels, doctors can diagnose these conditions and recommend the best treatment to maintain healthy iron levels and overall health.

Who should get this test?

An Iron Serum Test can help people find out if they have enough iron in their bodies. This test can be beneficial for:

• People with symptoms of anemia, like tiredness and weakness
• Individuals with chronic medical conditions that may affect their iron levels
• Those who have had significant blood loss due to surgery or injury
• Individuals with a family history of hereditary conditions affecting iron metabolism

When should I order this test?

The Iron Serum Test is usually ordered when someone is showing certain symptoms that could indicate an iron deficiency or iron overload. Here are some symptoms that may prompt a doctor to order an Iron Serum Test:

• Feeling tired or weak
• Pale skin
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances, such as ice or dirt
• Hair loss
• Brittle nails

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, your doctor may consider ordering the Iron Serum Test to determine if an issue with iron levels in your blood is the cause.

* Walk-In Lab's iron and TIBC blood test includes the Iron Serum Test.