What you need to know about iron testing

Iron testing— also commonly referred to as ferritin testing— is used to determine the amount of iron present in the blood. Per the Mayo Clinic, it is usually performed to diagnose and monitor conditions such as iron deficiency anemia, hemochromatosis, and other iron-related disorders.

What is measured when you get an iron test?

Iron tests look for a protein called ferritin, according to the Mayo Clinic. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body and releases it when the body needs it. The level of ferritin in the blood is a good indicator of the amount of iron stored in the body.

What are the normal ranges for iron levels in the blood?

The normal value range for iron according to Mount Sinai is between 60 and 170 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/bL) or 10.74 to 30.43 micromoles per liter (micromol/L).

What are the different kinds of iron tests?

There are different types of iron tests, which look at the amount of iron in your body in different ways, according to the National Library of Medicine. The different types of tests include:

• Serum iron tests (measures the amount of iron in the blood)
• Transferrin test (measures how much ferritin protein is in your blood)
• Total iron-binding capacity (measures how well iron attaches to the ferritin protein)
• Ferritin blood test (measures how much iron is currently stored in the body)

How is iron testing performed?

Iron is tested by taking a sample of blood from your body. Depending on the type of iron test you are getting and your testing facility, this sample may be taken by fingerstick or by venipuncture, according to the NLM.

Where to get an iron test

Iron tests can be done at most healthcare facilities with lab testing capabilities. You can find and book an appointment for an iron test at a nearby urgent care clinic or walk-in clinic by using Solv’s directory.

What to expect during an iron test

During an iron test, you will give a sample of blood. According to the NLM, if the sample is taken with the fingerstick method, you or a healthcare professional will use a lancet to quickly pierce the pad of your finger, then squeeze one to two drops of blood onto a collection strip.

If you are getting an iron test using the venipuncture method, a healthcare professional will use a small needle to take a sample of blood from a vein in your arm or hand.

Both procedures are quick and minimally uncomfortable.

Understanding your iron test results

The results of your iron test will show a number in either a normal, high, or low range. Your healthcare provider will help you determine if any treatment or lifestyle changes are necessary.

What causes high iron levels?

High iron levels in the body, also known as hemochromatosis, can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes of high iron levels according to the Mayo Clinic include:

• Hereditary hemochromatosis (a genetic disorder in which the body absorbs too much iron from the diet, leading to iron overload in the body).
• Frequent or recent blood transfusions
• Consuming high amounts of iron-rich foods or taking iron supplements in excess
• Chronic liver disease
• Rare blood disorders such as thalassemia and sideroblastic anemia

What are the symptoms of high iron?

Symptoms of high iron levels may not be noticeable right away, according to the Mayo Clinic. Over time, hemochromatosis can lead to liver damage or heart disease.

What is the treatment for high iron?

Treatment for high iron levels usually involves a procedure called phlebotomies, which removes iron from the blood, as well as dietary changes and the management of any underlying conditions.

It's important to talk to a healthcare provider if you suspect you may have high iron levels or symptoms of iron overload.

What causes low iron?

Low iron, also known as iron deficiency, can be caused by several factors. According to the Mayo Clinic, these are common factors for developing an iron deficiency:

• Inadequate intake of iron-rich foods
• Blood loss from heavy periods, ulcers, gastritis, cancer, or blood donation
• Certain digestive disorders, like celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and gastric bypass surgery
• Increased iron demand, (such as during pregnancy, infancy, and childhood)
• Chronic kidney disease
• Certain medications that interfere with iron absorption, such as proton pump inhibitors and antacids
• Certain blood disorders, that can cause chronic hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells), such as thalassemia and sickle cell anemia

What are the symptoms of low iron?

The symptoms of low iron (also known as iron deficiency) can vary depending on the severity of the deficiency. According to the Mayo Clinic, the common symptoms of iron deficiency include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Pale skin
• Cold hands and feet
• Brittle nails and hair
• Restless leg syndrome
• Pica (a condition where you crave to eat non-food items, such as ice, dirt, or paper)
• Difficulty concentrating

What is the treatment for low iron?

The treatment for an iron deficiency depends on the underlying cause and severity of the deficiency. Some common treatments that the Mayo Clinic outlines are:

• Iron supplementation
• Dietary changes
• Blood transfusion
• Treatment of underlying conditions
• Lifestyle changes

Can I get an iron test at home?

Yes, it is possible to get an iron test at home with a home test kit. However, it is important to note that the accuracy and reliability of home iron test kits may vary, and they may not be as accurate as the tests done in a clinical laboratory.

Cost of iron testing

The cost of iron testing will vary depending on your location, your testing facility, and your insurance coverage. According to FindLabTest.com, the national average of iron tests in the United States is between $19 and $29.