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Some people need a blood test to measure the amount of a protein called ferritin, which stores iron in your body. Oxygen in the blood, which can show whether there is too much or too little iron in your body, and doctors can also use it to diagnose restless legs syndrome and adult Still’s disease (a rare type of arthritis with fever and rash), according to a report on the website. webmed.
Symptoms of low iron:
- Feeling dizzy, weak and tired
- headache
- pallor of the skin
- shortness of breath
- rapid heartbeat
A ferritin blood test can also help your doctor see if your body is storing too much iron. High levels may indicate alcohol use, infection, liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, or certain cancers..
Symptoms of high iron levels vary and can include:
- exhaustion
- heart problems
- Joint pain
- body hair loss
- stomach pain
- Weight loss
- Stomach ache
- lack of energy
How do I prepare for a ferritin blood test?
If the ferritin test is the only test you have, you can eat and drink as usual. You may need to fast for other blood tests.
ferritin blood test results
Normal ferritin levels range from:
- 24 to 336 micrograms per liter for men
- 11 to 307 micrograms per liter for women
Causes of low level of ferritin in the blood
If your results are lower than normal, you may have iron deficiency and possibly anemia. Your doctor may prescribe iron supplements or order more blood tests to find out the cause..
Causes of high ferritin in the blood
Higher-than-normal results mean that your body is storing too much iron. Your doctor may adjust your diet or supplements since high iron is a symptom of other medical problems.
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