Ferritin (Iron Stores) Test: What It Measures and Why It Matters
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron. A ferritin blood test shows how much iron your body has in reserve.
What the Ferritin test measures
The level of ferritin, which reflects your stored iron
Why we check it at Serene
Low iron stores can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, restless legs and hair shedding, sometimes before anemia shows up on a CBC. That’s why ferritin is part of the women’s expanded baseline panel, since heavy periods are a common cause of low iron.
At Serene Med Spa in Barboursville, West Virginia, every hormone and wellness plan starts with Labcorp lab work reviewed by a board-certified physician.
What your results can mean
Higher than normal
High ferritin can come from inflammation, liver disease, alcohol use, obesity, an overactive thyroid or iron overload conditions.
Lower than normal
Low ferritin usually means low iron stores, often from heavy periods, low iron intake, pregnancy, blood loss or poor absorption.
Normal ranges vary by lab, age and sex. Your physician reads every result together with your symptoms, history and other tests.
How to prepare
No fasting is usually needed unless it’s drawn with other tests that require it.
Low iron stores are a common, treatable contributor to hair shedding in women.
Yes. Iron stores can drop before anemia appears on a CBC.
Inflammation is a common reason, so a high ferritin is read together with your history and other labs.
Have questions about your labs?
Book a hormone and wellness consultation at Serene Med Spa in Barboursville, WV. We’ll review your symptoms, order the right panel and walk you through every result.
Sources: MedlinePlus: Ferritin Blood Test. This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Tests are ordered only after a consultation with a licensed provider.
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