Cause 8. Chronic Inflammation: The Prolonged Battle Affecting Iron Levels
Chronic inflammation—whether caused by long-standing infections, autoimmune diseases, certain cancers or other medical conditions—can have a profound effect on the body’s iron levels. It does this by disrupting the usual process of iron storage and release, leading to a condition known as anemia of inflammation or anemia of chronic disease (ACD).
Iron is typically stored in the body’s cells until it’s needed to make new red blood cells. However, inflammation can interfere with this process, causing the body to hold on to iron instead of releasing it. This means that even if there’s enough iron in the body, it’s not being used properly, which can lead to IDA.
Managing IDA in the context of chronic inflammation requires addressing the underlying cause of the inflammation. This may involve medications to control autoimmune diseases, antibiotics or antiviral medications for infections, or cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation. This can help the body use its stored iron more effectively.
In addition to treating the underlying cause, healthcare providers may recommend iron supplementation or blood transfusions to help manage IDA symptoms. However, these interventions should be used cautiously, as they can potentially exacerbate the underlying inflammatory condition.
The intersection of chronic inflammation and IDA underscores the interconnectedness of the body’s systems. It’s a reminder that a holistic approach is often needed to manage complex health conditions like iron deficiency anemia. (8)
