What happens if you have too much iron while pregnant?
Previous studies have shown that higher than normal iron levels increase the risk of low birth weight, preterm birth, and maternal high blood pressure. It has also been associated with susceptibility to colorectal cancer, heart disease, neurodegenerative disorders and some inflammatory conditions.
What are the side effects of too much iron?
Iron Toxicity Excessive iron can be damaging to the gastrointestinal system. Symptoms of iron toxicity include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain. Over time, iron can accumulate in the organs, and cause fatal damage to the liver or brain.
When should you suspect iron overload?
Iron overload suspected after a history and physical can generally be diagnosed with low costs, non-invasive blood tests. Serum iron levels are not indicated. Serum ferritin greater than 300 ng/ml in males and greater than 150 to 200 ng/ml in menstruating females can be indicative of iron overload.
Can prenatal vitamins cause iron overload?
How much iron is too much? Aim to get no more than 45 milligrams of iron a day. If you take more than that (either from an extra iron supplement or from your prenatal vitamin), it can cause your blood levels of iron to rise too high, possibly causing problems for you and your baby.
Is 65mg iron safe for pregnancy?
You need at least 27 mg of iron, but try not to get more than 45 mg each day during your pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Be sure to take iron supplements exactly as your doctor recommends. Iron supplements may cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea.
Can too much iron make you dizzy?
Iron supplements can cause side effects like dizziness, fainting, and hives. Too many iron supplements can cause long-term side effects like liver damage and heart disease. If you want to take iron supplements, talk to your doctor about finding the proper dosage for you.
When should I stop taking iron tablets during pregnancy?
Do not stop taking iron pills without talking to your doctor or midwife first. Even after you start to feel better, it will take several months for your body to build up a store of iron. Call your doctor, midwife, or nurse call line if you think you are having a problem with your iron pills.
What iron level is considered too high?
Abnormal ranges A score below 26 mcg/dL is outside the normal range for women. For men, a low score is anything below 76 mcg/dL. An abnormally high iron level would be above 198 mcg/dL for men and over 170 mcg/dL for women.
How long does iron take to get out of your system?
It may take six months to one year for your body to restock its iron stores. Your iron levels will be regularly reviewed with blood tests. If you have an underlying problem that is causing your iron deficiency, it is very important that the cause is investigated.
What happens if you take too much iron during pregnancy?
Iron overload during pregnancy may be linked to higher risk of developing diabetes. The body dramatically curtails iron absorption naturally during the first trimester. However, it may somewhat lose the ability to do so later during pregnancy, which could be worsened by over-consumption of iron supplements.
What are the signs and symptoms of iron overload?
The Signs and Symptoms of Iron Overload: While the symptoms are often silent in the early stages of hereditary hemochromatosis or iron overload, as it progresses it can lead to: *High bilirubin, and elevated liver enzymes on lab tests can also hint at iron overload.
What happens if you have too much iron in your body?
Iron overload is also linked to liver disease, cardiovascular disease, gout, infertility, hypothyroidism, and a very long list of others, making it essential for you to know your iron status. [10] The Signs and Symptoms of Iron Overload:
What should you do if your ferritin is high during pregnancy?
“While iron supplements should be avoided, iron deficiency is common and should be treated in a similar fashion to any other pregnant woman. If ferritin is high then venesection should be delayed until you recover from childbirth unless there are haemochromatosis related liver and cardiac issues.