Iron Deficiency and Hair Loss: Why Low Ferritin Causes Shedding
Hair shedding can be worrying, especially when it happens suddenly. Low iron — even before anaemia — is a common but overlooked cause. Here’s how low ferritin affects your hair.
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Cold hands & feet – Feeling unusually cold, especially in the extremities
Restless legs – An uncomfortable urge to move the legs, often worse at night
Frequent infections – Low iron can weaken the body’s ability to fight illness
Unusual cravings – Some people develop cravings for non-food items (a condition known as pica)
Hair thinning or loss – Shedding more than usual, or noticing patchy thinning
Brittle nails – Nails that split, chip, or break easily
Pale or dull skin – A washed-out or tired appearance due to lower haemoglobin
Dry skin – Skin may feel rough or less vibrant when iron levels are low
Tiredness & fatigue – Feeling drained, even after rest or sleep
Shortness of breath – Struggling with physical activity due to reduced oxygen levels
Poor exercise tolerance – Finding it harder to keep up with usual routines or workouts
Palpitations – Awareness of a racing or irregular heartbeat when iron is low
Brain fog & poor focus - Trouble focusing, forgetfulness, or feeling mentally sluggish
Headaches – Low oxygen delivery can lead to frequent or unexplained headaches
Dizziness & light-headedness – A common result of reduced oxygen in the blood
Low mood & irritability – Iron deficiency can affect emotional balance and resilience