Skin condition under the eyes goes viral as doctors warn it could signal hidden health issue
While treating iron deficiency is important, identifying and addressing its underlying cause is equally critical, he said.
“Whenever possible, I work with my patients to determine why their iron deficiency developed so we can reduce the likelihood that it will recur,” Thomas told Fox News Digital. “This often involves collaboration with gastroenterologists, gynecologists or other specialists to evaluate for sources of blood loss or malabsorption.”
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Pregnancy, heavy menstrual bleeding and frequent blood donation can also contribute to lower iron levels. Vegetarians, vegans and those who follow diets that do not include iron-rich foods may also be at risk, according to the American Society of Hematologists.
Diagnosis and treatment
If a person thinks they may have low ferritin, it is important to see a physician.
“This is not something that someone should self-treat, and I always advise them to seek professional help,” Hadeed advised. “Unlike water-soluble vitamins, the body has no easy mechanism to excrete excess iron, and over-supplementation can lead to increased levels of iron in the body, which can affect the liver and heart.”
When hemoglobin is low, the skin can lose its healthy color and appear pale, making the naturally darker tissue beneath the eyes more noticeable. (iStock)
A simple blood test by a healthcare professional can determine iron levels. Further evaluation may include stool and urine tests to look for blood, along with endoscopy to examine the esophagus, stomach and colon. Women may also undergo a gynecological evaluation, according to experts.
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Treatment for iron deficiency may include oral supplementation and, in cases of severe anemia, intravenous (IV) iron or blood transfusions.
“The biggest drawback of oral iron is gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, constipation, abdominal discomfort and stomach upset,” Thomas noted.
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“These side effects can often be minimized by taking iron every other day rather than daily, a strategy that also maintains excellent absorption for many patients.”
He also recommends spacing them apart from calcium supplements, dairy products and antacids, which can affect absorption.
A simple blood test by a healthcare professional can determine iron levels. (iStock)
Following a diet that includes iron-rich foods can also help, according to the American Society of Hematology website.
Some examples include beef, pork, or lamb; organ meats like liver, chicken, turkey, duck and fish (especially shellfish, sardines and anchovies); leafy greens, such as broccoli, kale, turnip greens and collard greens; legumes, including lima beans, peas, pinto beans and black-eyed peas; and iron-enriched pastas, grains, rice and cereals.
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Ferritin face is reversible, Hadeed emphasized.
Once iron stores are safely restored and hemoglobin levels rebound, the skin recovers its healthy capillary flush, and dark under-eye circles tend to fade over several months.
Amy McGorry is a contributing health writer for Fox News Digital. Follow her on Twitter @amymcgorry.
Article source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/skin-condition-under-eyes-goes-viral-doctors-warn-could-signal-hidden-health-issue