Dark under-eye circles might seem like a cosmetic issue, but they can sometimes indicate low iron levels in the body. This condition, known on social media as ‘ferritin face,’ involves more than surface appearance.
Understanding Ferritin
Ferritin serves as the body’s iron storage. Dr. Josef Hadeed, a double board-certified plastic surgeon, explains that ferritin is a protein storing iron within cells. When iron is needed, ferritin releases it. Low ferritin makes it difficult for the body to produce hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen.
Symptoms of Low Ferritin
Some signs of low ferritin include pale skin and dark under-eye circles. Other symptoms are fatigue, dizziness, headaches, brittle nails, hair loss, cravings for ice, and restless legs syndrome. Dane Thomas, a hematology/oncology physician associate, mentions that as ferritin levels decline, these symptoms may worsen.
Additional signs can involve shortness of breath, pounding in the ears, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty concentrating. Women with heavy menstrual bleeding, those who are pregnant, and frequent blood donors may also experience lower iron levels.
Underlying Conditions and Diagnosis
Besides cosmetic concerns, low ferritin may indicate deeper health problems like chronic bleeding, gastrointestinal disorders, or malabsorption. Dr. Hadeed highlights that treating the iron deficiency is crucial, but understanding its root cause is equally important.
If you suspect low ferritin levels, consulting a physician is key. They may conduct blood tests, along with stool and urine tests, or suggest an endoscopy to explore potential causes. A gynecological evaluation might be recommended for women.
Treatment
Treatment can involve oral iron supplements or, for severe cases, intravenous iron or blood transfusions. Thomas warns that oral supplements might cause gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and constipation. He advises taking iron supplements every other day to minimize these effects and suggests separating them from calcium-rich foods.
A diet rich in iron might help. Options include beef, pork, liver, chicken, fish, leafy greens, legumes, and iron-enriched grains.
Reversibility
Fortunately, ‘ferritin face’ can reverse. When iron stores are stabilized, and hemoglobin levels improve, skin regains its color, and dark circles diminish over months.