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Complete Guide to Iron Testing: Symptoms, At-Home Test Kits, and Treatment Options

Disclaimer: This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Iron is a vital nutrient that plays a key role in many bodily functions, especially in the production of red blood cells and transporting oxygen throughout the body¹. However, many Australians experience low iron levels without even realising it². Whether it’s due to diet, lifestyle, or underlying health conditions, iron deficiency can lead to a range of uncomfortable and potentially serious symptoms.

Symptoms of low iron

Iron deficiency can cause a variety of symptoms that may affect your everyday life, including:

Fatigue or feeling tired all the time
Weakness or lack of energy
Pale skin
Shortness of breath
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Cold hands and feet
Brittle nails or hair loss
Headaches
Fast or irregular heartbeat

If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be a sign that your iron levels are low, and it’s important to undertake iron testing to check on your iron levels.

Why iron testing is important

Testing your iron levels is essential for identifying whether you are at risk of iron deficiency or overload. Low iron levels can lead to anaemia, which can have significant health impacts, including a weakened immune system³. On the other hand, too much iron in the body can lead to conditions like hemochromatosis, which can damage organs over time⁴.

Iron testing provides valuable insights into your body’s ability to store and transport iron, helping you understand your health status and take necessary steps to improve your well-being.

Options for testing your iron levels

There are two main ways to test your iron levels:

Pathology Referral: A referral for a blood test ordered by your doctor, to be taken to your local pathology clinic to undertake testing. Once your results have been received, your doctor may organise a follow up appointment to discuss
At-Home Test Kit from TouchBio: If you prefer the convenience of testing from home, TouchBio offers an easy-to-use at-home testing kit that allows you to measure your ferritin levels quickly and accurately.

Ferritin Rapid Test by TouchBio

The Ferritin Rapid Test by TouchBio offers a quick and precise way to assess your ferritin levels, helping detect both iron deficiency and iron overload. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in your cells, and measuring its level can give a clear indication of your iron status.

Convenient and Portable: This test is simple to use and can be done at home, making it a convenient solution for busy individuals.
Quick Results: The Ferritin Rapid Test provides results in a matter of minutes, allowing you to make informed decisions about your health.
Accurate: The test helps detect low or high ferritin levels, providing insights into your iron storage and whether you may have iron deficiency or overload.

What does a ferritin test show?

A ferritin test measures the amount of ferritin in your blood, which is a direct reflection of your body’s iron stores. A low ferritin level indicates that your iron stores are depleted, which can point to iron deficiency. Conversely, a high ferritin level may suggest an iron overload, which could be a sign of conditions like hemochromatosis⁴ or inflammation.

What are my treatment options if I have low iron?

If you are diagnosed with low iron levels, there are several treatment options to help restore your iron levels:

Iron-Rich Diet: Incorporating iron-rich foods into your diet is one of the easiest ways to boost iron levels. Foods like lean meats, leafy green vegetables, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals are great sources of iron.
Iron Supplements: If dietary changes aren’t enough, your doctor may recommend iron supplements. These are available in various forms, such as tablets or liquids, and can help replenish your iron stores.
Intravenous Iron (IV): In more severe cases of iron deficiency, an intravenous iron infusion may be recommended to quickly restore iron levels.
Treating Underlying Conditions: If your low iron is caused by an underlying health condition such as gastrointestinal bleeding or heavy menstrual periods, addressing the root cause will be essential to restoring your iron balance.

Get tested today

If you’re experiencing symptoms of low iron or just want to ensure your iron levels are in check, don’t wait — testing your iron levels is easy and convenient. With options like TouchBio’s Ferritin Rapid Test and traditional pathology referrals, you can take control of your health and ensure your body has the iron it needs to thrive.

Order your at-home test kit today or speak with one of our doctors to explore the best options for testing and treating low iron levels.