Signs and Symptoms of Iron Deficiency in Children

Symptoms of iron deficiency include poor concentration, reduced level of performance in school, and drowsiness during the day.

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"Iron deficiency makes children susceptible to anemia," said pediatrician Prof. Dr. Hermann-Josef Kiel, noting that this condition particularly afflicts adolescents with chronic bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, as well as girls with severe menstrual periods.

The symptoms of iron deficiency are characterized by poor concentration, low level of academic achievement, drowsiness during the day, paleness, loss of appetite, nail and hair damage, dry lips and cracking of the corners of the mouth, as well as a condition called "restless legs syndrome."

In restless legs syndrome, the person feels tingling in the legs, as well as the constant need to tighten and stretch the muscles.

A pediatrician should be consulted when these symptoms are observed to check for iron deficiency through a blood test.

The body can be supplied with iron by eating foods rich in it such as meat, green leafy vegetables, red beet, fish, eggs, whole grain products, legumes, and nuts. If necessary, iron supplements may also be used.

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