Iron Deficiency Anaemia
Iron deficiency is a common cause of anaemia. We help work out why iron stores are low, whether oral iron or an iron infusion is appropriate, and when a haematology opinion adds value — at clinics in Sunbury and Williamstown.
What it is
Iron is needed to make haemoglobin. When stores fall, people may feel tired, short of breath on exertion, or notice pale skin, restless legs, or hair change — or they may have few symptoms and only an abnormal blood test. Causes include blood loss (for example from the gut or heavy menstrual bleeding), increased demand in pregnancy, and reduced absorption. A low ferritin with a compatible history often points to iron deficiency, but ferritin can be misleading in inflammation, and other anaemias can look similar. Investigating the cause matters as much as replacing iron. This page cannot diagnose you; please discuss results with your GP.
How we help
Many people with straightforward iron deficiency are managed in general practice. Haematology review is useful when anaemia is severe or unexplained, oral iron has not worked or is not tolerated, there is a need to consider intravenous iron, blood counts suggest a more complex disorder, or coexisting conditions (such as coeliac disease, chronic kidney disease, or a suspected bone marrow problem) make interpretation difficult. We discuss oral iron versus iron infusion, arrange infusions in clinic when appropriate, and liaise with gastroenterology or gynaecology if further investigation of the source is needed. We do not replace GP-led bowel investigation where that is the standard of care.
For patients
- Oral iron is first-line for many people if it is tolerated and absorption is adequate. Take it as your GP advises; some preparations are better absorbed on an empty stomach.
- An iron infusion may be considered if oral iron fails, is not tolerated, or a more rapid rise in iron is clinically needed.
- Replacing iron does not replace finding a cause. Your GP may still recommend gut investigation, especially in adult men and in women after menopause.
- We offer iron infusions at our Sunbury and Williamstown clinics after haematologist review and a valid referral.
- Tell us about stomach symptoms, bowel change, diet, pregnancy, and all medicines and supplements.
For GPs
- We accept referrals for refractory or unexplained iron deficiency, intolerance of oral iron, consideration of IV iron, and anaemia that may not be iron deficiency alone.
- Please attach FBC and film, iron studies, CRP if relevant, and a brief note of GI or gynaecological work-up already arranged.
- B12, folate, renal function, and coeliac serology are helpful when the picture is mixed.
- Urgent review is appropriate for symptomatic severe anaemia; patients who are haemodynamically unstable should go to hospital.
When to refer
- Iron deficiency anaemia not responding to, or not tolerating, oral iron
- Unexplained iron deficiency, particularly where specialist input on further testing would help
- Consideration of iron infusion after GP assessment
- Anaemia with features suggesting a broader haematological disorder
Clinics and referrals
Consultations are at Sunbury Clinic, Vineyard Medical Centre, 2-6 Sussex Court, Sunbury VIC 3429, and Williamstown Clinic, Williamstown Specialist Centre, 87 Ferguson Street, Williamstown VIC 3016. A GP referral is required.
Related information
This page is general information about haematology conditions and services. It is not a diagnosis, treatment recommendation, or a substitute for medical advice. Please talk to your GP if you have symptoms or abnormal blood results.