A 32-year-old female presents with feelings of tiredness, shortness of breath, and palpitations. She reports heavy menstrual bleeding. On physical examination, her conjunctivae appear pale. What are the next steps?
Given these symptoms, the woman could be suffering from iron deficiency anemia, potentially due to heavy menstrual bleeding. Initial blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC) and a reticulocyte count, should be ordered. If anemia is confirmed, iron studies (serum iron, total iron-binding capacity, ferritin) should be done to confirm iron deficiency. If confirmed, iron supplementation should be initiated and potentially consultation with a gynecologist for management of heavy menstrual bleeding.