Does this test have other names? What is this test? This test
measures the level of iron in your blood. Iron is an essential
trace element in your blood. It helps your body make healthy red
blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your
bloodstream. Having too little or too much iron can lead to
health problems. Too little iron in your body can cause a
condition called anemia. When this happens, your blood doesn't
have enough iron to make the number of red blood cells needed to
provide the amount of oxygen your body needs. Iron-deficiency
anemia is most often caused by blood loss, such as after an
injury or surgery, or because of heavy menstrual bleeding. Too
much iron can be caused by hemochromatosis. This is a genetic
condition that causes your blood to absorb too much iron. Why do
I need this test? You may need this test if your doctor suspects
that you have too much or too little iron in your blood. Common
symptoms of anemia include: Less common symptoms of anemia are
brittle nails, restless le