Anaemia treatment and iron deficiency care
Anaemia is a common condition that can leave you feeling tired, weak or short of breath. At Moonee Valley Specialist Centre, we identify the cause and provide clear, personalised treatment, including iron infusions.
%201.svg){kind=icon}
What is anaemia?
Anaemia is a condition in which your blood doesn’t carry enough oxygen due to low red blood cell or haemoglobin levels. Iron is essential for haemoglobin production, and low iron stores can lead to iron deficiency anaemia. Some cases are mild, while others need specialist assessment.
Understanding anaemia symptoms, causes and risks
Anaemia affects how your body carries oxygen and can cause a range of symptoms. Identifying the type and cause helps guide effective treatment and ongoing management.
Symptoms of anaemia
Symptoms often develop gradually and may be easy to miss at first, especially if iron levels drop slowly.
- You may feel tired, weak or short of breath, even when doing everyday activities.
- Some people notice dizziness, pale skin, or a faster-than-usual heartbeat.
- More severe cases can affect concentration, energy levels and overall daily function.
Common causes of anaemia
Anaemia can be caused by low iron levels, blood loss or problems with how your body produces red blood cells.
- Anaemia is commonly caused by reduced red blood cell production.
- Blood loss from the digestive system or heavy periods is a common cause.
- Other causes include chronic conditions, low vitamins or inherited disorders.
%201.svg){kind=icon}
Risk factors for anaemia
Certain factors can increase your risk of anaemia, including diet, medical conditions and life stage. Understanding these risks can help with early detection and prevention.
- People with chronic illness or absorption issues may also be at risk.
- Women with heavy periods or pregnancy often have higher iron needs.
- Older adults or those with limited diets may struggle to maintain iron levels.
How common is anaemia?
Anaemia is a common condition in Australia, often linked to low iron levels. Many people may not realise they have it, as symptoms can develop gradually and be easy to overlook.
- Around 760,000 Australians are estimated to have anaemia.
- Iron deficiency affects up to 2 million Australians, making it a major contributor.
- Women, especially during reproductive years, are more likely to be affected.
How is anaemia diagnosed?
Anaemia is diagnosed through a combination of blood tests and clinical assessments. Identifying the cause guides the right treatment and rules out underlying conditions.
Blood tests and iron levels
A blood test checks haemoglobin and iron levels, helping confirm anaemia and assess your body’s iron stores.
Identifying the underlying cause
If iron deficiency is found, further tests may be performed to evaluate bleeding or digestive system absorption issues.
Further investigation if needed
Procedures such as endoscopy may be used to evaluate the digestive system and identify sources of bleeding.
Our services for anaemia treatment
We offer a range of services to diagnose, investigate and treat anaemia. These support identifying causes, restoring iron levels and managing a host of conditions.
Book an appointment for an anaemia assessment
If you feel tired or have been diagnosed with iron deficiency anaemia, we provide expert assessment and treatment options to restore iron levels and improve your wellbeing.
Why choose us for anaemia treatment
We focus on identifying the cause of anaemia and guiding the right treatment. Our approach helps you understand your options and feel confident in your care.
%201.svg){kind=icon}
Targeted treatment
We identify the cause before starting treatment, ensuring care is appropriate and effective for your condition.
Guidance on treatment options
We explain treatment options, including oral iron and supplements, so you understand what works best for your needs.
Support beyond iron tablets
If iron tablets are not effective or cause side effects, we offer alternative treatments to restore iron levels.
Practical advice
We provide clear advice on diet, iron intake and supplements to support treatment and maintain healthy iron levels.
Our process for treating anaemia
Our process focuses on identifying the cause of anaemia and guiding the right treatment. We support you from initial assessment through to treatment and follow-up care.
Assess signs, symptoms, and history
We review your symptoms, diet and history to identify signs of iron-deficiency anaemia and guide the next steps for testing.
Confirm diagnosis and cause
We do additional tests to confirm iron levels and identify causes, such as GI bleeding or dietary deficiency.
Start treatment and support
Treatment may include iron supplements, dietary advice or infusions, with support to manage side effects and improve levels.
Doctor referrals for anaemia assessment
A referral from your GP is usually required for specialist care. We work closely with referring doctors to assess anaemia, identify causes and guide appropriate treatment.
Our team of anaemia care specialists
Our experienced team provides specialist-led care across diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. We focus on clear explanations, patient support and personalised care at every stage.
Recognised qualifications and affiliations
Our team includes specialists with FRACP qualifications and affiliations with respected medical organisations, ensuring care is delivered to established clinical standards.
Connected to trusted medical networks
Our team is part of established medical networks and professional bodies, ensuring access to current knowledge, collaboration and high standards of patient care.
Patient feedback and treatment experiences
We are proud to support patients through diagnosis and treatment. Their feedback reflects our focus on clarity, care and positive health outcomes.
Take the next step in treating iron deficiency anaemia
If you’ve been advised to take iron or are still feeling unwell, we can help. Our team offers assessment and treatment options to restore iron levels and support your recovery.
FAQs
Find answers to common questions about anaemia, including causes, symptoms and treatment options. If you have concerns, speak with your doctor for personalised advice.
What is iron deficiency anaemia?
Iron deficiency anaemia occurs when your body does not have enough iron to produce haemoglobin (Hb). Haemoglobin helps red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. When iron levels are low, oxygen delivery is reduced, which can lead to tiredness, weakness and shortness of breath. It is the most common type of anaemia and often develops gradually.
What can cause anaemia?
Anaemia can be caused by low dietary iron, blood loss, or poor absorption, which can affect the production of haemoglobin. Gastrointestinal bleeding from peptic ulcers, inflammatory bowel conditions or non-steroidal medicine use is a common cause. Other causes include vitamin B12 deficiency, bone marrow disorders such as aplastic anaemia, and inherited conditions such as sickle cell disease.
How to treat anaemia effectively?
Treatment depends on the cause. For instance, you may only need to take oral iron supplements or adjust your diet to increase iron intake for the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia. If supplements cause side effects such as constipation or diarrhoea, or are not effective, options like iron infusions or, in severe cases, transfusions may be recommended. Identifying causes such as gastrointestinal blood loss or ongoing bleeding is essential for long-term care.
What foods help improve iron levels?
Iron-rich foods such as red meat, fish, eggs, leafy greens and fortified cereals can help improve iron levels. Foods rich in vitamin C support the body’s ability to absorb iron more effectively. While diet can help, some people may still need to take iron supplements, especially with conditions like chronic kidney disease. Too much iron may cause side effects such as nausea, so intake should be guided by your doctor.
When should I see a doctor for anaemia?
You should see your doctor if you have ongoing fatigue, lethargy or shortness of breath. Seek advice if blood tests show low iron or haemoglobin, or if you develop iron deficiency. Ongoing blood loss, including gastrointestinal bleeding or conditions like angiodysplasia, may lead to anaemia and require further assessment and treatment.
Can anaemia be caused by underlying conditions?
Yes, some conditions can affect how your body produces haemoglobin or lead to ongoing blood loss. Chronic disease or gastrointestinal issues may reduce your ability to absorb the iron needed for healthy cells. In some cases, losing blood or inflammation can cause bleeding and ongoing iron deficiency. Management may include medicine, supplements such as liquid iron or iron polymaltose, and addressing the underlying condition through a specialist health service.
Helpful articles on anaemia and treatment options
Read our articles to better understand anaemia, including causes, symptoms and treatment of iron deficiency. Stay informed with clear, practical health information.
Contact us for anaemia care and treatment
If you have symptoms or low iron levels, our team is here to help. We provide clear guidance on testing and treatment, including how to safely restore sufficient iron levels. Contact us to book an appointment or speak with our team today.
Phone Consults: 8:00am - 6:00pm
