Iron is an essential mineral that has the responsibility to make haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is a protein in the red blood cell that carries oxygen from the lungs to other parts of the body. Moreover, It is also responsible for making myoglobin, which provides oxygen to the muscles. Also, some hormones require iron for their production. Therefore, it is an essential substance in the human body because haemoglobin is 2/3rd of its iron body. However, if there is a lack of iron, there would be less haemoglobin, decreasing oxygen transfer. Consequently, a lack of iron can lead to anaemia, and an overload of it can cause hemochromatosis. There are several home test kits available to check iron deficiencies in the body.

Iron At-Home Test Kit Description and Process

The Iron At-home test kit will test for iron levels, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), ferritin, and transferrin saturation. The inspection of the iron levels that are attached to the protein transferrin determines the iron level. TIBC is the measure of all the available proteins in the body responsible for transferring iron around the body. Besides, Ferritin stores iron in the body. The test for Ferritin identifies the storage capacity in the body. Transferrin is a blood-plasma glycoprotein, and it forms in the liver. Its primary function is to transport iron around the body. Furthermore, the home test kit is booked online and delivered to the user’s doorstep. The user carries out this procedure on their own. The test kit will come with written instructions for the user to follow.

1. The activation of the test kit is essential to connect it to a unique number. Without activation, the evaluation of samples cannot occur in the laboratory.
2. The user should collect the sample using the finger-prick method before 9 am. There would be guidelines in the test kit regarding the collection of the sample.
3. The process of returning the sample is by using the carrier method provided in the test kit. Moreover, there is also a prepaid shipping label to return the sample.
4. CLIA and CAP-accredited laboratories analyze the samples. These are the highest accreditation. The results are confidential and are available on the secure account of the user within 2-5 days.
5. After the results are made available, a medical expert team is available 24/7 to assist you with the result. They can guide you through treatment options if the results show iron deficiency or iron overload.

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency or Overload

The deficiency of iron can lead to anaemia, a disease that occurs when there is a low haemoglobin level in the red blood cells (RBCs). It affects the size and development of RBCs, which is involved in carrying oxygen around the body. Therefore, the lack of iron can decrease oxygen in the body. The symptoms of anaemia include cold hands, brittle nails, weakness, pale skin, and headaches. Moreover, it can also cause shortness of breath since the oxygen provided is less.

Similarly, iron overload can lead to hemochromatosis, which develops when there is an excess of iron. In this disease, the body absorbs excess iron, with no way of secreting it. It accumulates in joints or organs like the liver, heart, and pancreas. In the case of no treatment, hemochromatosis can damage these organs and cause heart disease or diabetes.

Symptoms of hemochromatosis include joint pain, loss of libido, abdominal pain, weakness, and diabetes. It is essential to take a test if these two conditions are present. Suppose someone is vegan or frequently donates blood, or has a history of hemochromatosis. In such a case, it is crucial to test for iron deficiency. Moreover, A person can also take a test if he suffers from fatigue. A good diet (rich in iron) or iron supplements can prevent iron inadequacy in the body. Likewise, donating blood after consulting with a doctor can prevent the accumulation of iron.