What Does High or Low Ferritin Mean?

What Does High or Low Ferritin Mean?

Ferritin is an iron-containing blood protein responsible for storing iron in the body and releasing it when needed. It also protects DNA, lipids, and proteins from the potentially harmful effects of iron, helping the body use iron efficiently. A ferritin test measures the amount of ferritin in the blood to assess the body's iron storage status. This test is commonly used to diagnose iron deficiency anemia, and results are reported in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). Low ferritin levels indicate insufficient iron in the body and a possible iron deficiency, while high ferritin levels—usually above 500 ng/mL—may indicate conditions such as infections, liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory disorders, hyperthyroidism, or type 2 diabetes.

What Is Ferritin?

Ferritin is a crystalline blood protein that safely stores iron within cells and releases it in a controlled way when needed. It protects lipids, DNA, and proteins from iron’s potential toxic effects. A ferritin test measures the amount of this protein in the blood, revealing how full the body’s iron stores are. Low ferritin levels indicate depleted iron reserves and a risk of iron deficiency anemia. Conversely, high ferritin levels are typically associated with infections, liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or iron overload conditions such as hemochromatosis.

What Does Ferritin Do?

Ferritin serves as the main indicator of iron stores in the body. It safely stores iron and releases it when needed. Low ferritin levels mean that the body’s iron stores are running low—an early sign of iron deficiency anemia. Measuring ferritin not only helps assess red blood cell production, but also reflects iron’s vital role in energy metabolism, immune defense, and brain and muscle function. Low ferritin often causes fatigue, poor concentration, and weakened immunity.

What Is a Ferritin Test?

A ferritin test measures the level of ferritin in the blood to determine how much iron the body has stored. This test helps detect conditions like iron deficiency at an early stage. Ferritin levels are typically measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). Low ferritin means the body lacks enough stored iron, which may lead to iron deficiency anemia.

What Should Ferritin Levels Be?

Normal reference ranges for ferritin are approximately 24–336 µg/L for men and 24–307 µg/L for women. Levels below these ranges suggest iron deficiency, while higher values may indicate inflammation, liver disease, or iron overload.

Causes of High Ferritin

High ferritin refers to an excess of ferritin in the blood. It can result from iron overload or from chronic inflammatory or metabolic conditions. Elevated ferritin is commonly linked with malignancies, liver disease, type 2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or hyperthyroidism—conditions that trigger inflammation.

Symptoms of High Ferritin

• Persistent fatigue and weakness
• Heart palpitations or arrhythmias
• Joint or abdominal pain
• Weight loss and loss of appetite
• Low libido
• Darkened or bronzed skin
• Hair loss on the body

Causes of Low Ferritin

Low ferritin indicates depleted iron stores, most often due to iron deficiency anemia. This can result from insufficient dietary iron, heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnancy, or malabsorption. Excessive tea or coffee intake and intestinal parasites can also reduce iron absorption. Low ferritin may lead to fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.

Symptoms of Low Ferritin

• Persistent fatigue and weakness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Pale skin
• Dizziness or shortness of breath
• Hair loss
• Brittle nails
• Heart palpitations
• Tingling in hands and feet
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Weakened immune system
• Decreased work performance
• In children: delayed growth and learning difficulties

How Is High Ferritin Treated?

Treatment for elevated ferritin depends on identifying the underlying cause through blood tests. If no serious condition is found, therapeutic blood donation (phlebotomy) may help reduce ferritin levels. In hereditary hemochromatosis (genetic iron overload), regular blood removal is the most effective therapy. In cases of elevated transferrin saturation without an underlying illness, blood donation may still be recommended. Continuous monitoring by a hematologist is essential to track both iron levels and organ function.

What Helps with Low Ferritin?

Since ferritin reflects the body’s iron stores, low ferritin means iron reserves are insufficient. Increasing dietary iron intake is key—especially from red meat, fish, and eggs. Consuming foods rich in vitamin C alongside these sources enhances iron absorption. Green leafy vegetables also contribute to iron intake. In some cases, iron supplements may be prescribed under medical supervision.

When Should Ferritin Supplements Be Taken?

Ferritin (iron) supplements are best absorbed on an empty stomach—typically one hour before or two hours after a meal. They should be swallowed with at least half a glass of water and should not be chewed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ferritin

How long does a ferritin test take?

Results are usually available within one hour after a blood sample is taken.

Should the ferritin test be done on an empty stomach?

Yes. The test is performed while fasting, and results are typically ready the same day.

Where can a ferritin test be done?

It can be performed in hospitals and laboratory test centers.

Is ferritin the same as anemia?

No. Ferritin reflects iron storage, whereas anemia refers to a low red blood cell or hemoglobin count.

Do ferritin supplements cause weight gain?

No, they do not. The body only absorbs the amount of iron it needs; excess is not stored.

What does ferritin show in a blood test?

It shows how much iron is stored in the body. Low values indicate deficiency, while high values may signal inflammation or disease.

What happens if ferritin is low?

Low ferritin can cause fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, headaches, and hair loss.

What if iron levels are normal but ferritin is low?

This means that while blood iron appears normal, body stores are depleted. Over time, iron deficiency may develop.

Is high ferritin dangerous?

Yes. If ferritin exceeds normal limits, it may indicate harmful iron buildup—especially in disorders like hemochromatosis.

At what level is ferritin considered dangerous?

Levels above 400 ng/mL may suggest excess iron accumulation and warrant further evaluation.

How can ferritin be increased?

By consuming iron-rich foods, taking vitamin C, and using doctor-prescribed iron supplements if needed.

What foods increase ferritin?

Red meat, poultry, and fish are the best sources to help restore ferritin levels.

What does it mean when both CRP and ferritin are high?

Elevated CRP and ferritin together usually indicate active inflammation or infection in the body.