A Case of Chronic Pain with Iron Deficiency Potentially Improved by Controlling Chronic Inflammation

Abstract

Background: Iron deficiency may exacerbate chronic pain, and coexisting inflammation can impair iron metabolism, reducing the effectiveness of supplementation. In nutritional psychiatry, simultaneo us evaluation and intervention for iron deficiency and chronic inflammation are considered importa nt.

Case: A woman in her 40s had experienced severe generalized pain since the age of 21 due to p ustulotic arthro-osteitis, with limited response to biotin therapy and trigger point injections. Followi ng a common cold, her pain worsened and nasal obstruction developed; epipharyngitis was suspect ed, and epipharyngeal abrasive therapy was performed. This intervention reduced inflammation and led to some improvement in pain and psychosomatic symptoms, although the response remained in sufficient. She also presented fatigue, lightheadedness, and irritability, and laboratory findings revea led low ferritin levels, leading to a diagnosis of iron deficiency. Iron supplementation combined w ith vitamins B and C was initiated, along with additional micronutrients such as zinc and magnesi um. Subsequently, the parallel management of iron supplementation and chronic inflammation led t o further improvement and sustained symptom stability.

Conclusion: In chronic pain associated with iron deficiency, control of chronic inflammation in ad dition to nutrient supplementation may be essential for symptom improvement. A nutritional psychi atry–based approach may provide a practical strategy for improving both pain and psychosomatic s ymptoms.