Should You Take Iron Supplements for Heart Palpitations and Dizziness?

Q: Should You Take Iron Supplements for Heart Palpitations and Dizziness?

Hello： Since you have been diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse and autonomic nervous system dysfunction, it is recommended that you follow up with a cardiologist every few years. <br>If you have iron deficiency anemia, a blood test to check your red blood cell indices can assist

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Hello, doctor.
Three to four years ago, I experienced frequent palpitations and chest tightness, and I went to the hospital for two examinations (with over a year in between).
I was diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse and autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
Sometimes, even while sitting and without engaging in strenuous exercise, I feel short of breath.
Recently, during my menstrual periods, I have experienced shortness of breath, shaking hands, and even dizziness just from standing.
My blood pressure has also been consistently low during previous health check-ups.
The school nurse suggested that I take iron supplements to improve my condition, but after researching online, I found that iron supplements are more suitable for those with iron deficiency anemia.
Given my situation, would it be appropriate for me to take iron supplements? Are there any precautions I should be aware of when taking iron supplements? Thank you.

123, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/10

Dr. Chen Yuemei reply Pharmacology

Hello: Since you have been diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse and autonomic nervous system dysfunction, it is recommended that you follow up with a cardiologist every few years.
If you have iron deficiency anemia, a blood test to check your red blood cell indices can assist in diagnosis, and appropriate treatment can help alleviate your symptoms.
If you need to take iron supplements for preventive purposes, be careful not to chew the tablets; common side effects may include abdominal pain, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and upper gastric pain (taking it with food can reduce the irritative effects of iron on the stomach).
In severe cases, it may lead to gastrointestinal bleeding.

Reply Date: 2018/09/10

More Info

When considering whether to take iron supplements for symptoms such as heart palpitations and dizziness, it is essential to first understand the underlying causes of these symptoms. Your history of mitral valve prolapse and autonomic dysfunction suggests that your symptoms may not solely be related to iron deficiency. However, the recent episodes of breathlessness, shaking hands, and dizziness, especially during menstruation, raise the possibility of anemia, which could be exacerbated by menstrual blood loss.

Iron is a crucial component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Iron deficiency can lead to iron deficiency anemia, characterized by fatigue, weakness, palpitations, and dizziness. If your blood tests indicate low hemoglobin levels or low ferritin (the stored form of iron), then iron supplementation may be beneficial. However, if your blood tests show normal iron levels, taking iron supplements may not address the root cause of your symptoms and could potentially lead to iron overload, which can be harmful.

Before starting any supplementation, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your overall health. They may recommend a complete blood count (CBC) and iron studies to determine your iron status. If you are diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia, your doctor may suggest iron supplements, typically ferrous sulfate, which is commonly used and effective.

When taking iron supplements, there are several important considerations:
1. Dosage: Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations regarding the dosage. Typical doses for iron deficiency anemia range from 60 to 200 mg of elemental iron per day, depending on the severity of the deficiency.

2. Absorption: Iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach, but if it causes gastrointestinal discomfort, you may take it with food. However, avoid taking it with calcium-rich foods or supplements, as calcium can inhibit iron absorption.

3. Side Effects: Common side effects of iron supplements include gastrointestinal upset, constipation, and dark stools. If you experience severe side effects, consult your healthcare provider.

4. Monitoring: Regular follow-up blood tests may be necessary to monitor your hemoglobin and ferritin levels while on iron supplements. This helps ensure that you are responding to treatment and prevents potential iron overload.

5. Dietary Sources: In addition to supplements, consider incorporating iron-rich foods into your diet, such as red meat, poultry, fish, lentils, beans, and fortified cereals. Pairing these foods with vitamin C-rich items (like citrus fruits) can enhance iron absorption.

6. Underlying Conditions: Since you have a history of autonomic dysfunction and mitral valve prolapse, it is crucial to manage these conditions alongside any supplementation. Symptoms like palpitations and dizziness can also arise from these issues, and addressing them holistically is essential.

In conclusion, while iron supplements can be beneficial for individuals with iron deficiency anemia, they may not be the solution for everyone experiencing heart palpitations and dizziness. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine the appropriate course of action based on your specific health needs. If iron deficiency is confirmed, supplementation can be a valuable part of your treatment plan, but it should be approached with caution and under medical supervision.

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