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Description
Ferritin Blood Test
Ferritin is the protein within the blood which is responsible for iron stores. Ferritin will release iron when the body needs it and is to be found mostly in the liver, spleen, bone marrow and skeletal muscles.
Low ferritin levels can be indicators of an iron deficiency. The iron deficiency could be as a result of anaemia or down to a poor diet. Iron deficiencies can also be caused, in women, by very heavy menstrual bleeding. High ferritin levels mean that your body is holding on to too much iron and can be an indicator of an inflammatory condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, or liver disease.
How to work on increasing ferritin levels
Increasing your consumption of iron-rich food can help to increase your ferritin levels. Foods rich in iron include:
- Lean meat
- Beans and nuts
- Dark green leafy vegetables
- Breakfast cereals fortified with iron
- If you are trying to increase your iron levels, you should also eat Vitamin C-rich foods as Vitamin C helps to support iron absorption.
Reasons for requiring a ferritin blood test
Many of our patients who request a ferritin blood test, may also request a Vitamin B12 (Active) test.
Testing ferritin levels
The test can be performed using a small amount of blood from a finger prick which you can do yourself.
How often should I test my ferritin levels?
We recommend testing your ferritin levels when experiencing any of the below symptoms, or having a restricted diet.
Other Questions
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Pale skin
- Palpitations
- Joint pain
- Stomach ache
This blood test is to check on:
- the amount of ferritin (iron) in the blood
The test can be taken at any time throughout the day, posted on the same day on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday.
Collection method: Finger prick
Results available: 1-3 days after the sample has reached the laboratory.
Ferritin
Ferritin is a blood protein which stores iron. A ferritin blood test will show if you have too much or too little iron in your body.
How it Works
1. Order a Test
Answer the Questions about why you’re taking the test.
Our nurse will contact you for dates, so they can take your blood sample at your home.
Our nurse will then send your sample to our laboratory.
2. Our laboratory team run the tests
Our skilled laboratory staff conduct your blood tests in a clean and secure environment, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Each test follows strict protocols to maintain the highest quality standards.
3. Receive Your Results within 7 days
We will email you to inform you that your blood test results are ready.
The email will have a PDF report attached, sent directly to your inbox.
4. Monitor your levels over time
With regular ongoing tests and reports, you can track your results. The reports can be shared with your GP.
Check if you’re improving healthily or where changes could be made.
What’s In The Test?
Home to laboratory kit
- Blood Test
- A prepaid return envelope (UK & Ireland only)
- Two single-use lancets
- One blood collection tube
- One blood collection tube label
- One plastic blood collection tube case
- Two adhesive plasters
- A cleansing wipe
