How to Know If You're Iron Deficient (Without Guessing)

iron deficiency woman with headache

Feeling tired all the time? Having trouble concentrating? Catching every cold that goes around? These may sound like everyday problems, but they could be symptoms of iron deficiency, one of the most common yet underdiagnosed health concerns today.

At Intra-V, we see clients every week who've been struggling with low energy, brain fog, or unexplained fatigue, only to discover that iron was the missing link all along.

In this post, we'll explore:

  • What iron does for your body

  • Common symptoms of iron deficiency

  • Who's at risk

  • How to test your levels — and what to do next

Why Iron Matters More Than You Think

Iron is a mineral your body needs to produce hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout your body. When iron levels are low, your tissues and organs don't get enough oxygen, and that affects everything from energy and focus to immunity and recovery.

Even mild iron deficiency can cause subtle but disruptive symptoms that build up over time. That's why it's important not to guess — and instead take a closer look at what your body might be telling you.

Common Symptoms of Iron Deficiency

Here are some of the most frequent signs of low iron we see in our clients at Intra-V:

  • Fatigue or constant low energy

  • Shortness of breath, especially during activity

  • Pale skin or dark under-eye circles

  • Headaches or dizziness

  • Cold hands and feet

  • Hair thinning or brittle nails

  • Brain fog or difficulty concentrating

  • Cravings for ice or non-food items (a condition called pica)

It's easy to dismiss these as part of a busy lifestyle, but if they're persistent, they could signal something deeper.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Certain groups are more likely to experience iron deficiency, including:

  • Women with heavy menstrual cycles

  • Pregnant or postpartum women

  • People with digestive disorders like celiac, Crohn's, or ulcerative colitis

  • Vegans or vegetarians (who may consume less absorbable iron)

  • Endurance athletes or those with high physical demands

  • Individuals who've had gastric bypass or weight loss surgery

  • People recovering from illness, surgery, or chronic inflammation

If you fall into one of these categories and have noticed symptoms, it's worth checking your iron levels.

How to Test for Iron Deficiency

The only way to know for sure if you're iron deficient is with a simple blood test. At Intra-V, we can test for:

  • Serum Iron – measures how much iron is in your blood

  • Ferritin – shows how much iron your body has stored

  • Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) – assesses how well your blood can transport iron

  • Hemoglobin and Hematocrit indicate whether iron levels are affecting your red blood cells

These lab values give us a clear picture of your iron status — and help determine whether oral supplements or iron infusions are the right solution for you.

When Supplements Aren't Enough

Some people try oral iron first, but experience nausea, constipation, or poor absorption, especially if they have digestive issues. In those cases, we offer iron infusions, which deliver a precise dose of iron directly into your bloodstream for faster, more effective results — often in just a few sessions.

You'll start feeling better without the GI side effects that many people experience with over-the-counter supplements.

Personalized Iron Support in Katy and The Woodlands

At Intra-V, we make it easy to test, treat, and track your iron levels with medically guided care and real results. Whether you're managing a diagnosed deficiency or justfeel something's off, our team can help you get back to feeling your best.

We serve clients from Katy, The Woodlands, and surrounding areas with iron testing, IV therapy, and full-body wellness solutions tailored to your needs.


Book a Consultation

If you suspect iron deficiency might be behind your symptoms, don't guess — get answers.

Call or text 832-986-6824 or book your visit online at www.intra-v.com.

Let us help you get the oxygen, energy, and clarity your body has been asking for.

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Where to Get an Iron Infusion in Katy or The Woodlands