Ferritin Test
A Ferritin Blood Test measures your iron levels. Low ferritin levels typically indicate iron deficiency, while high levels may point to iron overload or other health conditions, including liver disease or chronic inflammation. Monitoring your levels helps ensure your overall well-being.
The Importance Of Iron And Ferritin Testing
Iron is a vital mineral. It is a crucial component of haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Iron is also involved in cellular energy production, helping enzymes in cells convert nutrients from food into energy.
Iron also supports immune function, brain function, and muscle function. Getting enough iron is essential to avoid conditions like iron deficiency anaemia. Therefore, Ferritin testing is vital. It helps you keep track of your iron intake to establish whether or not you are getting too little or too much iron. In general, normal levels are around 30 – 300 ng/mL for men and 15 – 200 ng/mL for women.
Conditions A Ferritin Blood Test Can Help Assess
A Ferritin Level Blood Test can assess conditions like iron deficiency (a common cause of anaemia), iron overload (Haemochromatosis), chronic inflammation, and certain liver disorders.
Common symptoms of low iron levels in the body include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, cold hands and feet, hair loss, and restless legs syndrome (an uncomfortable sensation in the legs, leading to an irresistible urge to move them).
Symptoms for high iron levels typically include fatigue, joint pain, abdominal pain, skin discolouration, liver issues, and loss of libido.
Ferritin Screening And Disease Prevention
By regularly monitoring your ferritin levels, you can ensure an iron deficiency or overload is detected early. When certain conditions like Haemochromatosis are left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as cirrhosis or diabetes.
Regular testing allows your doctor to provide you with various treatment plans, including dietary changes and supplements. These measures help bring your ferritin levels back to a healthy and normal level.
Core Blood Markers
Your blood sample is analysed in a laboratory to determine your current Ferritin and Serum Iron levels. These are measured in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL) or nanomoles per litre (nmol/L).
PRICING
Ferritin Test
Initial Consultation: Free
Blood Draw Fee: This fee is in addition to the cost of all blood tests taken face-to-face at Healand Clinic: £30
Home Nurse Blood Draw Fee: If you opt to have a nurse visit your home to draw your blood sample, this is carried out via our partner service via our laboratory, which incurs a fee of £60
Pre-Test Information
You usually do not need to fast to take a Ferritin Test unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise. However, avoid consuming large amounts of iron-rich foods (like red meat, leafy greens, or iron supplements) shortly before the test, as this may influence results.
Patients must be over the age of 18
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FAQs
Is a Ferritin test the same as an iron test?
What health conditions can affect your Ferritin levels?
Several conditions, including (but not limited to) chronic inflammation, liver disease, kidney disease, certain infections and even some cancers, can affect your Ferritin levels. In conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune diseases, your Ferritin level may also be elevated due to the inflammation in your system.
How often should I have a Ferritin test?
The frequency depends on your individual health needs. If you have a history of iron deficiency, anaemia, or other conditions affecting iron metabolism, your healthcare provider may recommend more regular testing to monitor your ferritin levels. If you are pregnant or a vegetarian, you may also need more frequent testing.
How can my diet affect my Ferritin levels?
Iron-rich foods like red meat, poultry, seafood, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals, can help maintain adequate ferritin levels. Vitamin C can also enhance iron absorption, so including fruits like oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers in your diet can be beneficial. On the other hand, a diet low in iron-rich foods or one that contains high amounts of calcium and tannins (usually found in tea and coffee) can actually inhibit iron absorption.
Can pregnancy affect Ferritin levels?
Most certainly. Ferritin levels often decrease during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. This is due to the increased iron demands for foetal development. Low levels of ferritin during pregnancy raise the risk of developing anaemia. This is why healthcare providers frequently monitor iron status in pregnant women and may recommend supplements if necessary.
