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See your doctor if you suspect your iron levels are low. Expect a physical exam. Be ready for a blood test.

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Your doctor is the best way to get your iron levels checked. Make an appointment to see your doctor within 1-2 weeks if you're showing basic signs of anemia like fatigue. The first step the doctor will take is to ask you about any history you've had with low iron in the past. Then, the doctor will ask you questions about your recent symptoms and health.  If you are having heart palpitations or shortness of breath, go immediately to urgent care or the emergency room. If you're having chest pains and breathing problems together, go straight to the emergency room. Your doctor may ask you about your diet. For women, they may also ask if you've had a heavy period recently. It can help to write down any symptoms you've been experiencing before you head to the doctor. That way, you won't forget when you get to the exam room. The doctor will do things like look at your mouth, skin, and nail beds, listen to your heart and lungs, and feel your abdominal area. They will be checking for signs of low or high iron.  Some signs of low iron may include fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, coldness in your extremities, pale skin, slowed appetite, and cravings for non-food items (known as pica). Let your doctor know if you have experienced any of these.  Other physical signs your doctor may look for include brittle nails, a swollen tongue, cracks in the sides of the mouth, and frequent infections. The doctor will order blood tests if they suspect your iron levels aren't right. The doctor may use more than one type of blood test to check to see whether your iron levels are high or low. Usually, you'll get results between 1-3 days after you had the blood test. These tests will give your doctor an idea of your hemoglobin levels. These levels measure how much oxygen is binding with your red blood cells.