Ice Chewing Linked to Iron Deficiency Anemia

Khaosod•Society•2d ago

Reader Briefing

Dr. Wu Qi-ying warns that a strong and continuous urge to chew ice may indicate iron deficiency anemia.

•Dr. Wu Qi-ying identifies compulsive ice chewing as Pagophagia, a form of Pica.
•Pagophagia is clearly linked to iron deficiency anemia according to clinical experience.
•Iron deficiency can cause reduced alertness and fatigue, while chewing ice provides temporary brain stimulation.
•Dr. Wu Qi-ying advises medical consultation over self-supplementing iron.

•Many people chew ice during hot weather, but a strong, continuous urge may be a medical condition called Pagophagia.
•Dr. Wu Qi-ying states that Pagophagia is part of a group of disorders known as Pica.
•Dr. Wu Qi-ying explains that iron is essential for brain function, and its deficiency leads to fatigue and decreased concentration.
•Chewing ice provides intense cold that can temporarily stimulate the brain and make a person feel refreshed.
•Dr. Wu Qi-ying observes that the urge to chew ice often disappears once iron levels return to normal through treatment.
•Dr. Wu Qi-ying warns against purchasing iron supplements without a doctor's diagnosis because anemia has multiple causes.
•Dr. Wu Qi-ying recommends blood tests to assess hemoglobin levels and stored iron to determine the safe form and duration of supplementation.

Full article content is available on the original source.

Dr. Wu Qi-ying(นพ.อู๋ฉีอิ่ง)

A doctor and health influencer also known as Mor Chang Lan Ge.

Chang Lan Ge's Medical World(蒼藍鴿的醫學天地)

A Facebook page used by Dr. Wu Qi-ying to share medical information.