Iron, TIBC & Ferritin Panel

About This Test

Examine your iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and ferritin levels, as these play crucial roles in maintaining your body's functions. Iron is an essential nutrient necessary for hemoglobin synthesis, enabling red blood cells to carry oxygen from your lungs throughout your body, sustaining energy. TIBC measures how effectively your blood binds to iron, facilitating its circulation. Ferritin, a blood protein containing iron, offers insight into your body's iron storage. Any deviations from normal iron levels warrant discussions with your healthcare provider to determine tailored steps for better wellness.

Signs & Symptoms

This test is right for you if you're experiencing any of these signs or symptoms:

Iron deficiency (low levels of iron):

• Pounding sound in ears
• Pale or yellow skin color
• Restless legs syndrome (RLS)
• An intense craving to chew and eat ice, eat non-food items, or both (pica)
• Pale or sore tongue
• Depression
• Frequent infections
• Apathy
• Sluggishness
• Hair loss
• Spoon-shaped or brittle nails
• Extreme fatigue
• Weakness
• Lack of energy
• Headaches
• Foggy thinking
• Poor memory
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Fainting
• Heart flutters
• Shortness of breath
• Cold hands or feet
• Chest pain
• Rapid heartbeat

Iron overload (high levels of iron):

• Joint pain
• Abdominal pain
• High blood sugar levels or diabetes
• Darkening of the skin
• Weakness
• Loss of sex drive
• Impotence
• Heart failure
• Depression
• Extreme fatigue
• Pain in the knuckles of your pointer and middle finger (“iron fist”)
• Chronic fatigue
• Memory fog
• Heart flutters
• Irregular heartbeat
• Elevated liver enzymes

Frequently, initial indications of irregular iron levels might be overlooked or attributed to fatigue, weakness, and reduced focus. Left untreated, imbalanced iron symptoms can intensify with advancing conditions, potentially impacting your overall well-being and lifestyle.

Who Should Have This Test

You must be 18 years old or older to order.

How This Test is Performed

Sample collection will involve obtaining a blood sample through venipuncture, where a needle is used to draw blood from a vein.

Preparing for Your Test

While not obligatory, fasting for 10-12 hours is advised for best outcomes. Ideal samples are obtained in the morning from fasting patients, as iron levels decline by about 30% throughout the day, and lipemia can substantially interfere with results.