This symptom can present differently depending on skin tone. Paleness may be more evident in lighter skin tones, visible across the face. In darker skin tones, abnormal paleness may be easier to detect in the inner mouth and lining of the eyes.5
4. You Often Feel Dizzy or Lightheaded
Another common symptom of iron deficiency is dizziness or lightheadedness. This happens because when your body is low in iron, it lacks enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the brain and other organs.6
Lightheadedness is another symptom that isn’t specific to iron deficiency. It could indicate a wide range of issues and various levels of severity. Consider whether you’re experiencing this symptom in combination with other symptoms or signs of iron deficiency.6
5. You Get Frequent Headaches
When your brain isn’t getting enough oxygen, a headache can follow. Iron deficiency can also cause your blood vessels to swell, which could create pressure that leads to a headache.7
A recent study found a strong link between iron deficiency anemia and chronic daily headaches. Migraines were also common among study participants with iron deficiency.8
6. Your Hair and Nails Are Weak or Brittle
Having brittle nails can be another indicator of iron deficiency. If the iron deficiency progresses, you may also develop koilonychia, a condition where your nails curve inward and have raised ridges, similar to spoons.9
Koilonychia affects about 5% of people with iron deficiency. It may happen due to abnormalities in blood flow to the nails and mechanical pressure that causes the outer portions of the nails to grow upward.10
Iron deficiency can also lead to hair thinning and loss due to a lack of nutrition and blood flow, which your hair needs to grow. Research shows iron deficiency is a frequent cause of hair loss.11
7. You Crave Ice
Iron deficiency can cause pica—eating or craving non-nutritive substances like ice, dirt, uncooked rice, or paper. In the United States, an estimated 25% of people with iron deficiency experience pagophagia—craving ice.12
This symptom occurs most often in pregnant people or preadolescents.13 There’s no known cause of pica or explanation for why it’s often linked with iron deficiency.12
How To Test for Iron Deficiency
Consider contacting a healthcare provider if you notice any of the above signs or symptoms of iron deficiency. You should also talk to a doctor if you notice blood or a black tar-like appearance in your stool.4
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