Ferritin Blood Test
Understanding your iron levels is key to unlocking your energy, focus, and improving overall well-being. A ferritin blood test provides a clear picture of how much iron your body is storing, helping to detect early signs of deficiency or overload – before symptoms become more difficult to manage.
What is a Ferritin Test?
A ferritin test measures the amount of ferritin in your blood. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron and releases it when your body needs it. While other tests might show how much iron is circulating in your blood, a blood test for ferritin reveals the reserves your body has tucked away.
This test is often ordered alongside others, such as a haemoglobin blood test, to provide a more complete view of your iron levels. It’s commonly used to help diagnose anaemia, inflammation, and conditions related to iron overload, such as haemochromatosis.
Reasons You Might Need a Ferritin Blood Test
You may be referred for a ferritin blood test if you experience symptoms like:
- Ongoing fatigue or weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Pale skin
- Hair thinning or loss
- Poor concentration
- Unexplained joint pain
While these symptoms can be caused by several issues, low or high ferritin levels can be part of the picture. Early detection allows you to take steps to improve your iron levels through diet, supplements, or other treatment options.
How Ferritin Testing Works
Blood testing for ferritin levels is simple and fast. A small blood sample is taken, usually from a vein in your arm. You typically don’t need to fast beforehand, although your healthcare provider may provide special instructions if necessary.
Results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours through our on-demand blood testing service, helping you take action almost immediately.
Understanding Your Blood Test & Ferritin Levels
Your ferritin levels are measured in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL). What’s considered a healthy range may vary slightly depending on your age, sex, and lab reference values. Here’s what your ferritin blood test might tell you when outside healthy ranges:
- Low ferritin may suggest iron deficiency, blood loss, or chronic illness.
- High ferritin could indicate inflammation, liver disease, or conditions like haemochromatosis.
If your results fall outside the typical range, your care team may recommend additional tests such as a C-Reactive protein test, or TSH blood test to help clarify the cause and guide treatment.
Ferritin Blood Testing & Whole-Body Health
Ferritin levels can impact more than just your iron status. Chronically low ferritin is often seen alongside other nutrient imbalances, hormonal changes, or autoimmune issues. In some cases, iron overload may be linked with more serious concerns. If you’ve been feeling run-down without a clear reason, a ferritin test can be a helpful starting point.
Evergreen Doctors offers personalised care, grounded in holistic insight. If your results suggest a deeper concern, we may recommend additional options like a full body scan for cancer or a testosterone test to investigate underlying health issues.
Easy Access to Testing, Anywhere
Whether you prefer in-person visits or virtual care, we make it easy to get the answers you need. Our on-demand blood testing is available with no long waits, and results are delivered quickly so you can move forward with clarity.
We’re here to support you every step of the way. You can also pair your ferritin blood test with related screenings, like the HbA1c blood test to track blood sugar or the TSH blood test for thyroid health.
Consider a Ferritin Test Today
If you’ve been feeling tired or off balance, don’t ignore the signs. A simple ferritin test can be the first step toward regaining energy and peace of mind. Book online with Evergreen Doctors or speak with a team member to learn more about our testing options.
