Ferritin Test

Who Should Get Tested?

Doctors usually recommend the ferritin test for individuals who may be at risk of iron deficiency or overload. This includes:

• Women with heavy menstrual bleeding
• People with unexplained fatigue, dizziness, or pallor
• Individuals with chronic conditions like kidney disease or inflammatory bowel disease
• Those following vegan or vegetarian diets
• Frequent blood donors
• Patients on long-term iron supplementation or suspected of iron toxicity
• People undergoing treatment for anaemia or chronic inflammation

Testing ferritin levels early helps prevent complications associated with abnormal iron storage.

Symptoms That May Require This Test

A ferritin test may be advised if you’re experiencing symptoms such as:

• Persistent fatigue or weakness
• Headaches or shortness of breath
• Pale or sallow skin
• Restless leg syndrome
• Irregular heartbeat
• Brittle nails or hair loss

For high ferritin levels, symptoms might include:

• Joint pain
• Liver discomfort
• Skin bronzing
• Irregular heart rhythms

These symptoms can indicate disrupted iron metabolism or chronic inflammation.

How is the Test Done?

MaxAtHome offers a convenient at-home ferritin testing service. A certified phlebotomist arrives at your location at the selected time slot to collect a small blood sample from a vein, typically from the arm. The entire process takes less than ten minutes and involves minimal discomfort. The sample is then transported securely to a NABL-accredited lab for analysis. Results are shared digitally, typically within 24 to 48 hours, ensuring a quick turnaround without the need to travel or wait in queues at diagnostic centres. The test is safe, hygienic, and highly reliable.

How to Prepare for the Ferritin Test

No special preparation is usually required for a ferritin test. Fasting is not necessary unless the test is being conducted as part of a more comprehensive health panel that includes fasting glucose or lipid profile. Patients should inform their doctor about any iron supplements, recent blood transfusions, or anti-inflammatory medications, as these could affect test outcomes. Alcohol consumption and recent infections can also elevate ferritin levels temporarily. For best results, follow your physician’s advice regarding the timing of the test and associated medications.

Time Taken for Results

With MaxAtHome, the Ferritin test results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours after sample collection.

Once the test is processed:

• The report is shared digitally via SMS or email
• It can also be accessed through the MaxAtHome platform
• Reports are easy to download and share with doctors for further consultation

Understanding Your Test Results

Ferritin Normal Range

The normal range for serum ferritin varies depending on age, sex, and laboratory reference standards. Typically, adult men have ferritin levels between 24–336 ng/mL, and adult women between 11–307 ng/mL. For children, normal levels range from 7–140 ng/mL, while pregnant women often have lower values that require careful monitoring.

Low Ferritin Levels

Low ferritin levels generally point to iron deficiency. This could result from chronic blood loss, poor dietary iron intake, or conditions that affect iron absorption such as coeliac disease. If not addressed early, low ferritin may progress to anaemia, impacting oxygen delivery and leading to more severe symptoms like shortness of breath and rapid heartbeat.

High Ferritin Levels

High ferritin levels may indicate inflammation, liver disease, or iron overload conditions like haemochromatosis. Infections, metabolic syndrome, and certain cancers can also cause elevated ferritin. It is important to interpret high results in conjunction with other markers, as a raised ferritin level on its own does not confirm a specific diagnosis.

Causes of Abnormal Ferritin Levels

Several factors can contribute to abnormal serum ferritin levels. Causes of low ferritin include heavy menstrual bleeding, frequent blood donation, digestive disorders, and malnutrition. High ferritin may result from excessive iron intake, chronic infections, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholism, or genetic disorders that lead to iron accumulation. Some medications and acute illnesses can temporarily raise ferritin levels. A detailed medical history and related test results are essential for correct diagnosis and management.

Why Choose MaxAtHome for the Test?

MaxAtHome offers a secure and efficient solution for getting tested without stepping out of your home:

• Certified phlebotomists trained in safe, hygienic sample collection
• Samples are processed at NABL-accredited laboratories
• Transparent ferritin test cost with no hidden charges
• Reports delivered online within 1–2 working days
• Ideal for both one-time evaluation and ongoing health monitoring

MaxAtHome ensures that your testing experience is reliable, safe, and convenient—whether you're getting tested for the first time or tracking your treatment progress.

Booking the Test with MaxAtHome

Booking a ‘serum ferritin test near me’ is simple with MaxAtHome:

• Visit www.maxathome.in
• Search for “serum ferritin test” in the test menu
• Enter your PIN code to check availability in your area
• Choose a suitable time slot for doorstep sample collection
• Make a secure online payment and confirm your booking
• Receive your digital report within 24–48 hours

You can also call our customer care team at 0124-4781023 for help with booking or queries.