How to test iron dificiency in infants
Infants need iron to grow and develop properly. That’s important for producing hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around our bodies. In infants, a lack of iron can cause anemia (a low amount of red blood cells) and affect cognitive and motor development. Thus, the prompt identification and remediation of iron deficiency is important. Directions for testing iron deficiency in an infant
Recognizing the Symptoms
Be aware of the signs of an infant iron deficiency panel before having a test done. Some signs include tiredness, paleness, less appetite, irritability, and gradual weight gain. Nevertheless, symptoms may not surface in many instances until the disease has advanced to iron deficiency anemia. Hence, routine screening is advisable.
Routine Screening for Iron Deficiency
Guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advocate for routine screening for iron deficiency anemia between 9 and 12 months, and again at 15 to 18 months. Usually, this is achieved via an uncomplicated blood examination.
The Blood Test
They will take a small sample of blood — usually from a vein in the arm or by pricking a finger. The individual blood is subsequently dispatched to a lab for examination. The test assesses multiple factors, including:
Red blood cell count: This test assesses the quantity of red blood cells in your body.
Hemoglobin and hematocrit: These tests measure the amount and proportion of blood in the form of red cells, respectively. A low level can signify anemia.
Serum Ferritin: The serum ferritin test is aimed at estimating the quantity of ferritin in blood, and it monitors the iron stores. Decreased levels can signal severe iron insufficiency.
Serum Iron and Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC): These tests assess the level of iron in circulation as well as the capacity of blood to bind with iron. Iron deficiency can be suspected by low levels of iron and high levels of total iron binding capacity (TIBC).
Interpreting the Results
If the blood test shows you have low iron levels, your weight loss and wellness center provider will talk to you about results and treatment options that could include changes in diet or taking an iron supplement.
Prevention is Key
Iron deficiency prevention is critical, while testing has a role. Iron supplements should be given to breastfed infants from 4 months until iron-containing complementary foods (e.g., iron-fortified cereals) are introduced. Infants who drink formula should drink iron-fortified formula. Always remember that early identification and treatment can prevent complications and allow for healthy growth and development. Now, as always, talk with a healthcare provider for individualized recommendations about infant iron deficiency testing.
