Iron Supplementation in COVID-19: An Essentiality?
COVID-19 is a viral respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Anaemia, on the other hand, is a condition in which the body lacks sufficient red blood cells or hemoglobin, which can result in reduced oxygen transport to the tissues.
While COVID-19 primarily affects the respiratory system, it can also affect other organs and systems in the body. There is limited research on the relationship between COVID-19 and anemia, but some studies suggest that COVID-19 infection may be associated with an increased risk of developing anemia [1].
One potential explanation for this is that COVID-19 can cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to a decrease in red blood cell production or an increase in their breakdown [2]. Additionally, COVID-19 may cause damage to the lungs and other organs, which can result in decreased oxygen levels in the body and contribute to the development of anemia (Fig. 1) [3].
The exact mechanism by which COVID-19 causes anemia is not yet fully understood, as there is limited research on the topic. However, several possible factors have been proposed:
- Inflammation: COVID-19 can cause an overactive immune response and systemic inflammation, which can interfere with red blood cell production and result in anemia.
- Reduced oxygen delivery: COVID-19 can cause damage to the lungs and other organs, resulting in reduced oxygen delivery to the tissues. This can trigger the body to produce more red blood cells in an attempt to compensate, but it may not be enough to prevent anemia.
- Medications: Some medications used to treat COVID-19, such as antiviral drugs and antibiotics, can cause drug-induced anemia as a side effect.
- Other underlying medical conditions: COVID-19 patients may have other underlying medical conditions that can contribute to the development of anemia, such as kidney disease or vitamin deficiencies.
It’s important to note that anemia can also occur in patients with COVID-19 for reasons unrelated to the infection. For example, stress, inadequate nutrition, and preexisting medical conditions can all contribute to anemia in COVID-19 patients. If you are experiencing symptoms of anemia or have concerns about your risk of developing anemia during COVID-19 infection, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider.
Iron supplementation may be necessary for COVID-19 patients who have been diagnosed with anemia due to iron deficiency. However, it’s important to use iron supplementation with caution in COVID-19 patients, as excessive iron intake can potentially worsen the infection.
Some studies have suggested that iron may promote the growth and replication of some viruses, including the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 [4]. Therefore, the decision to prescribe iron supplementation should be based on the individual patient’s needs and circumstances and should be made by a qualified healthcare provider.
The treatment for anemia in COVID-19 patients will depend on the severity of the anemia and the underlying cause. In general, treatment for anemia may include:
- Iron supplementation: If the anemia is due to iron deficiency, iron supplements may be prescribed to increase the production of red blood cells.
- Blood transfusion: In severe cases of anemia, a blood transfusion may be necessary to replenish the red blood cell supply.
- Treat underlying medical conditions: If the anemia is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease or a chronic infection, treating that condition may improve the anemia.
- Oxygen therapy: In some cases, oxygen therapy may be necessary to increase the amount of oxygen in the body and improve the symptoms of anemia.
If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and have been prescribed iron supplementation for anemia, it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely and to monitor your symptoms carefully. Be sure to discuss any concerns you may have about taking iron supplements with your healthcare provider, who can help you make an informed decision about the risks and benefits of this treatment option.
- Sonnweber, Thomas, et al. “Persisting alterations of iron homeostasis in COVID-19 are associated with non-resolving lung pathologies and poor patients’ performance: a prospective observational cohort study.” Respiratory research1 (2020): 1-9.
- Taneri, PetekEylul, et al. “Anemia and iron metabolism in COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” European journal of epidemiology35 (2020): 763-773.
- Cavezzi, Attilio, EmidioTroiani, and Salvatore Corrao. “COVID-19: hemoglobin, iron, and hypoxia beyond inflammation. A narrative review.” Clinics and practice2 (2020): 1271.
- Roldan, Eugenia Quiros, et al. “The possible mechanisms of action of 4-aminoquinolines (chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine) against Sars-Cov-2 infection (COVID-19): A role for iron homeostasis?.” Pharmacological research158 (2020): 104904.