The prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia has been expanding gradually in India. Research reports on healthcare in India reveal that iron deficiency is a major health concern, especially with 58.6% of children suffering from anaemia. In addition, around half of all pregnant women have iron deficiency.
Therefore, the iron test is a vital tool for measuring the possibilities of iron deficiency anaemia in patients. It also helps in measuring changes in iron levels in the blood due to chronic health conditions. The following post helps you learn what you can expect in blood tests for determining iron levels.
Overview of Iron Tests
Doctors recommend the test for measuring blood iron levels alongside regular health screening procedures. However, iron tests are commended only in cases where the doctor suspects that you may have a deficiency or overload of iron. Iron is an essential component for enabling the development of healthy red blood cells. In addition, it is also a crucial requirement for the production of haemoglobin, the protein in RBCs, which helps with the distribution of oxygen to all cells in the body.
Preparation and Procedure for Iron Tests
The next important piece of information about iron tests refers to the instructions for preparation and steps in the procedure. An iron test involves drawing a blood sample from the patient at home, doctor’s office, or clinic. The only preparation required for iron tests is that you must fast for around eight to 12 hours before the collection of samples. Therefore, it is best to give your sample in the morning. Lab technicians would draw the blood sample from a vein in your arm, and you can feel a stinging sensation as the needle pricks your skin.
This blood test has limited risks. However, you must also watch for some of the risks, such as excessive bleeding, multiple puncture wounds, and haematoma.
The average cost of an iron profile test can vary between 500 INR and 900 INR. The iron profile test includes evaluation for serum iron, transferrin, serum ferritin, and hypochromic cells in peripheral blood. Iron tests also evaluate the Total Iron Binding Capacity or TIBC. Iron profile tests can help in the diagnosis of health conditions such as inflammation, blood loss, infection, abdominal pain, and joint pain.
Bottom Line
The overview of iron profile tests shows that they can help with the recognition of iron deficiency anaemia symptoms. However, iron tests also support the diagnosis of conditions which lead to the accumulation of iron in the blood and tissues of individuals. Interestingly, the procedure for iron profile tests is simple and does not involve any complicated steps for preparation. In addition, it is also a cost-effective method for the diagnosis of conditions which lead to fluctuation in blood iron levels. Learn more about the different types of conditions evaluated with iron profile tests and the parameters measured in the test.
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