Question

In: Biology

effects of an iron deficiency

In humans, iron is a trace element required for the proper functioning of hemoglobin, the molecule that carries oxygen in red blood cells. What might be the effects of an iron deficiency?

Solutions

Expert Solution

Step 1: Meaning and function of hemoglobin

The red blood cells have a specialized structure responsible for the transportation of the oxygen molecule to different tissues of the body. This specialized structure is known as hemoglobin (Hb), which is classified as a metalloprotein.

The optimum amount of hemoglobin in blood is crucial for smooth oxygen transportation, and it varies in males and females. The normal level of Hb is 14–18 g/dl in men, while in females, it is 12–16 g/dl.

Step 2: Role of iron in hemoglobin

Hemoglobin is a metalloprotein constituted by the action of iron (Fe). The oxygen-carrying capacity of the hemoglobin is mediated by the iron atom. Hemoglobin is composed of four chains, and each one contains a heme group. The iron atom is attached to the heme group.

 

Iron is a trace element because it is needed in tiny amounts but has a major role in oxygen transportation as the iron atom binds to the oxygen and transports it to different tissues. It is also required for the healthy working of the hemoglobin and red blood cells.

Step 3: Effects of iron deficiency in blood

Since iron is a trace element, the quantities of this element must be present in optimum amounts. If there is an over-accumulation of iron in the blood, it will damage the organs and lead to iron toxicity. Similarly, the low amount of iron will also cause various problems.

Iron deficiency will occur when the iron levels are poor. It will affect the red blood cell's production and functions, thus leading to anemia. As a result of the low amount of red blood cells, hemoglobin will not transfer the oxygen effectively to the tissues and can lead to weakness, dizziness, and shortness of breath.


Iron is an essential component in the production of healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin. The primary function of hemoglobin is to transfer oxygen throughout the body as the iron in its structure can bind to the oxygen molecules.

If there is an iron deficiency in the body, hemoglobin and red blood cell production will be altered, leading to poor oxygen transport. This will cause weakness, fatigue, chest pain, and more.

Related Solutions

In addition to treating iron deficiency anemia, how are iron preparations used to prevent iron deficiency anemia?
Case StudyMrs. Angelis presents to the physician’s office with symptoms of fatigue, listlessness, anddyspnea on exertion. She is diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia. The physician orders ferrous sulfate. You are responsible for Mrs. Angelis’ education care plan.1. In addition to treating iron deficiency anemia, how are iron preparations used to prevent iron deficiency anemia?  
Describe the major causes of iron deficiency in the U.S.
Describe the major causes of iron deficiency in the U.S.
What are the characteristics and management of Iron-deficiency anemia?
What are the characteristics and management of Iron-deficiency anemia?
report on Iron deficiency and Vitamin B12 deficiency. how they occur? and what can be done...
report on Iron deficiency and Vitamin B12 deficiency. how they occur? and what can be done to help?
What complications can result if the following occur during pregnancy: Folate Deficiency Iron Deficiency Overconsumption of...
What complications can result if the following occur during pregnancy: Folate Deficiency Iron Deficiency Overconsumption of Fish
Let p1 and p2 be the respective proportions of women with iron-deficiency anemia in each of...
Let p1 and p2 be the respective proportions of women with iron-deficiency anemia in each of two developing countries. A random sample of 2000 women from the first country yielded 439 women with iron-deficiency anemia, and an independently chosen, random sample of 1700 women from the second country yielded 316 women with iron-deficiency anemia. Can we conclude, at the 0.05 level of significance, that the proportion of women with anemia in the first country is greater than the proportion of...
How would reticulocyte count be affected by each of the following? • iron deficiency • vitamin...
How would reticulocyte count be affected by each of the following? • iron deficiency • vitamin B9 or B12 deficiency • increased rate of blood cell synthesis in response to blood loss over a prolong period • aplastic anemia
Let p1 and p2 be the respective proportions of women with iron-deficiency anemia in each of...
Let p1 and p2 be the respective proportions of women with iron-deficiency anemia in each of two developing countries. A random sample of 2000 women from the first country yielded 447 women with iron-deficiency anemia, and an independently chosen, random sample of 2300 women from the second country yielded 467 women with iron-deficiency anemia. Can we conclude, at the 0.01 level of significance, that the proportion of women with anemia in the first country is greater than the proportion of...
During the first stage of iron deficiency, A. red blood cells are small and low in...
During the first stage of iron deficiency, A. red blood cells are small and low in number B. body stores of iron are depleted C. circulating iron in the blood is depleted D. physical symptoms of iron deficiency are apparent
A study was conducted in a particular place,to determine the effects of vitamin A deficiency in...
A study was conducted in a particular place,to determine the effects of vitamin A deficiency in preschool children.The investigators were particularly interested in whether children with vitamin A deficiency were at increased risk of developing respiratory infection,which normally causes death. 250 children were recruited in the study,and their age in years,gender(0=male,1=female),and whether they suffered vitamin A deficiency (0=no,1=yes) was recorded at an initial clinic visit (time 0).Also recorded was the response,whether the child was suffering from a respiratory infection (0=no,1=yes)....
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT