Headaches
Women [4] and other individuals with anemia may experience intense headaches. However, compared to the other signs of anemia in individuals, feeling headaches is less common. People that experience headaches may also observe lightheadedness or dizziness.
The relationship between headaches and iron deficiency is not very clear. However, the headaches are usually due to low hemoglobin levels in the red blood cells that stop enough oxygen from reaching the brain. Due to this effect, the brain’s blood vessels may experience swelling, which causes pressure and severe headaches.
Shortness of Breath
Hemoglobin allows the red blood cells to transport oxygen around the body system. When there are low levels of hemoglobin due to iron deficiency, there is a drop in the body’s oxygen level. Thus, the muscles wouldn’t get enough oxygen to carry out everyday activities [5] like walking.
When there’s a low hemoglobin level, the individual’s breathing rate will increase as the body tries to receive more oxygen. Hence, shortness of breath occurs as a symptom. Please consult your doctor if you observe shortness of breath when performing a regular task that should be easy, like walking, climbing staircases, and working out.