We are only able to provide blood tests to persons over the age of 18
All blood draws are performed by trained phlebotomists
Iron Blood Test
4 Biomarkers (2-4 days*)
£85
An iron blood test measures the levels of iron in the blood. Iron is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including oxygen transport, energy production, and DNA synthesis
Here are the biomarkers included in an iron blood test:
- Iron: This measures the amount of iron circulating in the blood. Normal serum iron levels vary depending on age, sex, and other factors. Low serum iron levels may indicate iron deficiency, while high levels may suggest iron overload conditions such as hemochromatosis.
- Ferritin: Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body, primarily in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Ferritin levels reflect the body’s iron stores. Low ferritin levels are indicative of iron deficiency, while high levels may indicate iron overload or other conditions such as inflammation.
- Transferrin: Transferrin is a protein that transports iron in the blood. It binds to iron and carries it to various tissues for use. Transferrin saturation helps assess the balance between iron supply and demand in the body. It is often used to diagnose iron deficiency anaemia and iron overload disorders such as hemochromatosis.
- Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC): TIBC measures the capacity of proteins in the blood to bind to iron and transport it throughout the body. It indirectly reflects the body’s ability to transport iron. Elevated TIBC levels may indicate iron deficiency, while low TIBC levels may suggest iron overload.
Here are some red flag symptoms that may prompt the need for an Iron blood test include:
- Persistent fatigue or weakness: Constant tiredness or a lack of energy, which can impact daily activities and overall quality of life.
- Shortness of breath or dizziness: Difficulty breathing or feeling lightheaded, especially during physical activities, which may indicate low oxygen levels in the blood.
- Pale or yellowish skin: Changes in skin tone, particularly pallor, can signal anaemia or low iron levels.
- Unexplained or frequent headaches: Recurring headaches that are not linked to other obvious causes may be a sign of iron deficiency.
- Cold hands and feet: Experiencing cold extremities, even in warm environments, can be a symptom of poor blood circulation due to low iron levels.
- Chest pain or a rapid heartbeat: Heart palpitations, chest discomfort, or an unusually fast heartbeat may indicate that the heart is working harder to circulate oxygen due to low haemoglobin.
- Brittle nails or hair loss: Noticeable changes in the condition of nails and hair, such as increased brittleness or unexpected hair loss, can be linked to iron deficiency.
- Craving non-nutritive substances (pica): An unusual desire to eat non-food items like dirt, ice, or chalk is a known symptom of severe iron deficiency.
- Restless legs syndrome: An uncomfortable sensation in the legs with an urge to move them, often worse at night, has been associated with low iron levels.
- Unusual tiredness or poor concentration: Difficulty staying alert, focusing, or maintaining cognitive function may indicate that the brain is not receiving adequate oxygen due to low iron levels.
Understanding these test results in the context of symptoms, medical history, and other diagnostic tests is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective management of iron-related health issues.
IMPORTANT
It is recommended to fast for 12 hours prior to your iron blood test
PREPARATION
- Drink plenty of water about an hour before the appointment.
- Avoid coffee/tea/energy drinks.
*Turnaround time
The tests take time to be delivered, prepared and analysed, therefore the turnaround time varies from test-to-test