Dear PRAMITA friends, anemia might seem like a common topic when it comes to health, especially among young people. But have you ever thought that anemia could be more than just low blood? One essential yet often overlooked test is checking ferritin levels. Why is this important? Let’s find out!

What is Ferritin?
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body. Think of it as an "iron bank" that holds reserves for when your body needs it. Low ferritin levels mean your body is running out of iron reserves, even if your hemoglobin levels appear normal. This condition is often called latent iron deficiency anemia.

Why is Ferritin Important for Anemia Diagnosis?
Sometimes, anemia isn’t evident through classic symptoms like fatigue or paleness. There’s also “hidden anemia” that can only be detected through ferritin tests. Knowing your ferritin levels helps doctors identify the cause of anemia:

Iron Deficiency: Low ferritin indicates iron deficiency.
Inflammatory Anemia: In some cases, high ferritin levels signal inflammation or infection, not iron deficiency.
Early Detection: Checking ferritin can uncover problems before anemia becomes severe.
How to Boost Ferritin Levels?
If ferritin levels are low, doctors often recommend:

Iron-Rich Foods: Red meat, chicken liver, spinach, and legumes.
Iron Supplements: Sometimes supplements are necessary when diet alone isn’t enough.
Address Underlying Causes: For high ferritin due to inflammation, focus on the root cause.

Conclusion
If you often feel tired or have a history of anemia, don’t stop at a hemoglobin test. Checking ferritin levels is essential to identify the real cause. Remember, health begins with prevention, not just treatment!