What are dangerously low ferritin levels?

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in your body. Low ferritin levels mean your iron stores are depleted, which can affect energy, immunity, and organ function. While mild iron deficiency may cause few symptoms, dangerously low ferritin can lead to serious health issues if left untreated.

Monitoring ferritin levels is especially important for those at risk, such as women with heavy periods, people with certain medical conditions or those with poor dietary iron intake.

Symptoms of low ferritin levels

Low ferritin can cause a range of symptoms, which may include:

• Persistent fatigue and weakness

• Shortness of breath or rapid heartbeat

• Dizziness or light headedness

• Pale skin or brittle nails

• Hair thinning or hair loss

• Poor concentration or “brain fog”

• Restless legs or frequent headaches

If you experience these symptoms, it may indicate low iron stores, and a blood test can confirm your ferritin levels.

Causes of dangerously low ferritin

Several factors can lead to critically low ferritin levels:

• Iron-deficient diet: Not consuming enough iron-rich foods, especially in vegetarian or vegan diets

• Heavy menstrual bleeding: Can deplete iron stores over time

• Pregnancy: Iron demand increases significantly

• Chronic blood loss: Including gastrointestinal bleeding or certain medical conditions

• Absorption issues: Conditions like coeliac disease or Crohn’s disease can limit iron absorption

• Frequent blood donation: Regular donation can reduce iron levels

Understanding the cause is important for determining the right approach to restore ferritin.

Health risks of low ferritin

Dangerously low ferritin affects more than just energy. Potential complications include:

• Severe anaemia: Low haemoglobin levels affecting oxygen transport

• Weakened immune system: Higher susceptibility to infections

• Heart strain: Rapid heartbeat or palpitations due to low oxygen delivery

• Cognitive issues: Difficulty focusing, slower thinking or memory problems

• Complications in pregnancy: Increased risk of preterm birth or low birth weight

Early detection through a ferritin blood test can prevent these risks.

Testing and monitoring ferritin levels

A ferritin blood test is the most effective way to measure your iron stores. It’s a simple procedure conducted by trained specialists and can be included in a private health check or booked as a standalone test.

• Preparation: Fasting is usually not required

• Procedure: A small blood sample is taken from the arm

• Results: Most results are available within a few days through the secure My Wellness dashboard.

Regular monitoring is recommended if you are at risk or undergoing treatment for iron deficiency.

Managing low ferritin levels

Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

• Dietary changes: Include iron-rich foods such as red meat, leafy greens, beans, and fortified cereals

• Iron supplements: Oral or, in some cases, intravenous iron may be prescribed

• Addressing underlying causes: Treating chronic blood loss or absorption issues

Your healthcare provider can guide the correct approach and monitor improvements in ferritin levels.

FAQs

What ferritin level is considered dangerously low?

Levels below 11 µg/L are generally considered low in women, and less than 24 µg/L in men. However, the exact threshold may vary by age, sex, and lab reference ranges.

Can low ferritin cause anaemia without low haemoglobin?

Yes. Ferritin levels drop before haemoglobin, so you may experience symptoms of iron deficiency even if your blood count appears normal.

How quickly can ferritin be restored?

With dietary changes or supplements, ferritin levels can improve within weeks to months, depending on severity and treatment adherence.

Who should check their ferritin levels?

Anyone with fatigue, heavy periods, pregnancy, or conditions affecting iron absorption should consider testing.

Can I add a ferritin test to a full health check?

Yes. Bluecrest allows you to add ferritin testing to any existing health assessment package for comprehensive insights.

Private health checks for ferritin monitoring

Bluecrest Wellness offers private ferritin tests as part of full body health assessments or as individual tests.

• Conducted at over 350 UK and Ireland venues

• Results explained clearly with plain-language reports

• Option to add to existing health packages for a complete overview of your wellbeing

• 24/7 GP helpline included with full assessments for guidance

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Need help? Call free on 0800 652 2183 to speak to one of our team.