1. What is iron deficiency anemia in infants?
2. What are the symptoms of iron deficiency anemia in infants?
3. What is the cause of iron deficiency anemia in infants?
4. How to prevent and treat infant iron deficiency anemia?
1. What is iron deficiency anemia in infants?
Iron deficiency anemia in infants refers to the inability of hemoglobin in red blood cells to be synthesized normally due to insufficient iron in the body, thus causing anemia. This kind of anemia mainly occurs in babies between 6 months and 2 years old, especially between 6 months and 1 year old after birth.
2. What are the symptoms of iron deficiency anemia in infants?
1. Pale skin
Due to the reduction in the number of red blood cells in the body, the skin will lose its original pink color and become pale.
2. Fatigue and weakness
Because the body cannot supply oxygen properly, the baby will feel tired and weak, and may become sleepy easily.
3. Loss of appetite
Since the body needs iron to synthesize hemoglobin, a lack of iron can cause babies to have a loss of appetite and even refuse to eat.
4. Shortness of breath
Your baby\’s breathing will become rapid because the body cannot supply oxygen properly.
5. Decreased immunity
Due to the lack of iron, the quantity and quality of red blood cells are affected, thereby reducing the baby\’s immunity and making the baby susceptible to infection.
3. What is the cause of iron deficiency anemia in infants?
1. Lack of iron intake
Babies need enough iron to synthesize hemoglobin. If breast milk or formula milk lacks enough iron, it can easily lead to iron deficiency anemia in infants.
2. Digestive problems
If your baby suffers from digestive problems, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, indigestion, etc., the body may not be able to absorb enough iron.
3. Premature birth or low birth weight
Babies born prematurely or with low birth weight need more nutrients to help them grow healthily. If they lack enough iron, they may easily develop iron deficiency anemia.
4. How to prevent and treat iron deficiency anemia in infants?
1. Get enough iron
Breastfed babies need to start adding complementary foods containing sufficient iron from 4 to 6 months after birth. Formula milk should also be chosen with sufficient iron content.
2. Increase vitamin C intake
Vitamin C can help the body better absorb iron, so foods rich in vitamin C should be added to the baby\’s diet, such as citrus fruits, strawberries, etc.
3. Take iron supplements
If your baby has been diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia, you can take iron supplements prescribed by your doctor to help the body recover.
Summary: Infant iron deficiency anemia is a common disease, but it can be effectively prevented and treated through reasonable diet and appropriate treatment. Parents should pay close attention to their baby\’s diet and physical condition, ask questions and take measures in a timely manner.
