To get ready for your appointment with your healthcare provider:

• Write down how you feel, your symptoms, when they started, how often they happen, and what makes them better or worse. Use a symptom tracker (PDF) to help you remember information about your symptoms.
• Make a list of your questions and concerns. When you're done, mark the things that are most important to you.
• Make a list of the prescription and non-prescription (over-the-counter) medicines you use, including any vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
• Ask someone you trust to go with you to your appointment. They can help you ask questions, write down instructions, and remember explanations.
• Bring a pen and paper and plan to write notes during the visit. Or you can record the conversation using your phone or an app like the Alberta Health Services My Care Conversations app.

Symptoms

You may not notice the symptoms of iron deficiency anemia because it can develop slowly and your symptoms may be mild. As it gets worse, you may:

• feel weak and tired more easily
  
• feel short of breath during exercise
• get headaches
• faint or feel dizzy
• look more pale than usual
• have a craving for non-food items like ice

Other signs of iron deficiency anemia may include:

• rapid heartbeat
• chest pain
• brittle fingernails and toenails
• cracked lips
• smooth, sore tongue
• muscle pain during exercise
• trouble swallowing
• strong urge to move your legs when at rest (restless legs)
• bleeding, like nosebleeds or heavy menstrual periods