What are the signs and symptoms of iron deficiency in children?

Too little iron can impair your child's ability to function well. However, most signs and symptoms of iron deficiency in children don't appear until iron deficiency anemia occurs. If your child has risk factors for iron deficiency, talk to his or her doctor.

Signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anemia might include:

• Pale skin
• Fatigue
• Cold hands and feet
• Slowed growth and development
• Poor appetite
• Abnormally rapid breathing
• Behavioral problems
• Frequent infections
• Unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances, such as ice, dirt, paint or starch