Did you know that around 1 in 5 Australian children are iron deficient?

Iron deficiency in children is far more common than many parents realise. Because the symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for “normal childhood behaviour”, it is frequently missed.

Why iron matters in children

Iron is essential for:

• Brain development and learning

• Energy production

• Healthy growth

• Immune function

During periods of rapid growth – particularly in toddlers, preschoolers and adolescents – iron requirements increase significantly. If intake does not keep up with growth, deficiency can develop.

Unlike adults, children may not complain of fatigue. Instead, iron deficiency often presents in ways that are easily overlooked.

Signs of iron deficiency in children

Symptoms in children can look different to those seen in adults. Parents may notice:

• Difficulty concentrating or declining school performance

• Behavioural changes or irritability

• Poor appetite or fussy eating

• Leg cramps or so-called “growing pains”

• Restless sleep or frequent night waking

• Pale appearance

• Frequent infections

Some children have no obvious symptoms at all, and iron deficiency is only identified on blood testing.

Why early recognition is important

Iron plays a critical role in cognitive development, particularly in early childhood. Prolonged deficiency can affect:

• Learning and memory

• Attention and behaviour

• Physical growth

• Overall wellbeing

Early identification and appropriate treatment can prevent longer-term impacts.

Which children are at higher risk?

Certain groups are more likely to develop iron deficiency, including:

• Toddlers transitioning to solid foods

• Children with restricted or selective diets

• Children who drink large amounts of cow’s milk

• Adolescent girls with heavy menstrual bleeding or at onset of puberty

• Adolescent males as they go through their “growth spurt” i.e age 15-17. 

• Children with gastrointestinal conditions affecting absorption

How iron deficiency is diagnosed

Iron deficiency is diagnosed with blood tests. These typically include:

• Full blood count

• Iron studies (including ferritin)

Importantly, children, just like adults can be iron deficient even if they are not anaemic. Ferritin levels are often the earliest indicator of depleted iron stores.

Treatment options

Management depends on the severity of deficiency, the child’s age, symptoms and previous response to treatment.

Options may include:

• Oral iron supplementation

• Intravenous iron

Oral iron is often first-line treatment, but some children struggle with side effects such as nausea, constipation or poor tolerance.

Intravenous iron is safe and quick (less than a 5 minute infusion in many children), and is something we regularly do in our clinic.

Our approach to children’s iron deficiency

At The Iron Infusion Clinic, we regularly assess and manage children from 2 years of age and older.

Our clinic is haematologist-led, with experienced practitioners who understand the nuances of iron deficiency in both adults and children. We focus on:

• Careful assessment

• Clear explanation for parents

• Evidence-based treatment

• A calm, child-focused environment

We aim to make the process as reassuring and comfortable as possible for both children and their families.

When to seek advice

If you are concerned about your child’s energy, behaviour, growth, school performance or iron levels, speak with your GP, or paediatrician about testing.  We can also help through our Iron Deficiency Screening Tool .

If iron deficiency has already been identified and you would like further assessment or discussion about management options, our team is happy to help.

Early recognition and appropriate treatment can make a meaningful difference to your child’s wellbeing and development.