Confirm the cause with a healthcare professional
Get blood tests to check hemoglobin, ferritin, and iron levels
Take oral iron supplements as prescribed
Take iron on an empty stomach if tolerated
Take iron with vitamin C to improve absorption
Avoid taking iron with calcium, tea, coffee, or antacids
Eat iron-rich foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, spinach, and fortified cereals
Include vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits, berries, peppers, and tomatoes
Treat any underlying source of blood loss
Address heavy menstrual bleeding if present
Treat stomach or intestinal conditions that reduce iron absorption
Use intravenous iron if oral iron is not effective or not tolerated
Follow up with repeat blood tests to monitor improvement
Continue treatment long enough to replenish iron stores
Seek urgent care for severe symptoms such as chest pain, fainting, or shortness of breath