What Is Considered a Dangerously Low/High Ferritin Level?

When will my doctor order ferritin?

Your doctor may order ferritin if you complain of the following:

• Symptoms of anemia include pale lips and skin, rapid heart rate, blurry vision, headaches, shortness of breath, and a general feeling of fatigue and weakness.
• Symptoms of loss of blood that may cause anemia: Include:
  • Bleeding from the gums, nose, or throat
  • Blood in stools or urine
  • Heavy menstrual cycles
• Symptoms of severe infection and inflammation include fever, severe cough, abdominal pain, and if you are hospitalized with infections.
• Symptoms of multiple organ damage and iron overload: Patients with hemochromatosis complain of symptoms of diabetes (thirst, frequent urination, and change of weight), symptoms of growth hormone deficiency (short stature and general weakness), and gonadal failure (failure of achieving puberty). Hemochromatosis needs more extensive investigations, but ferritin is the most basic one and the first one ordered.