Other potential signs of iron deficiency anemia

A number of additional signs show that your iron levels are low. These are less common and can be caused by a variety of things other than iron deficiency.

Other symptoms of anemia caused by a lack of iron include:

• Strange cravings. Pica is a need for non-food items. It's usually accompanied by a desire to eat ice, clay, dirt, chalk, or paper, and it might signal an iron deficit.
• Feeling of depression: In adults, iron deficiency anemia has been linked to depression. Pregnant women who are iron deficient are at an increased risk of depression.
• Hands and feet are cold: If you have an iron deficiency, your hands and feet will receive less oxygen. Some people may be more sensitive to the cold in general or have cold hands and feet.
• Infections occur more often: Because iron is required for a healthy immune system, a deficiency may raise your infection risk.
• Poor appetite: Iron deficiency is related to a poor appetite due to changes in the hunger hormone ghrelin.