Iron deficiency anemia is a common type of anemia, which is a condition in which blood lacks adequate healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the bodys tissues, and iron is necessary to produce hemoglobin, the molecule in your blood that carries oxygen. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when your body doesnt have enough iron to produce hemoglobin, and as a result, your body cant produce enough of a substance in red blood cells that enables them to carry oxygen. Causes of iron deficiency anemia include not consuming enough iron, losing too much iron, or not absorbing iron well. Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia develop over time and may initially be mild but can worsen over time if not treated. Common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, pale skin, and chest pain. Iron deficiency anemia can be diagnosed by blood tests that should include a complete blood count (CBC), and additional tests may be ordered to evaluate the levels of serum ferritin, iron, total iron-binding capacity, and/or transferrin. Mild iron deficiency anemia usually doesnt cause complications, but if left untreated, it can become severe and lead to health problems such as heart problems, an enlarged heart, or heart failure. Iron-rich foods such as red meat, pork, poultry, seafood, beans, dark green leafy vegetables, and dried fruit can help reduce the risk of iron deficiency anemia. Iron supplements may also be prescribed to treat iron deficiency anemia.