![]() People who have had the flu are more susceptible to additional infections, such as pneumonia. More >
Would you like to ask our staff a question?
>
Join the discussion and leave a comment on this article
>
|
Iron Deficiency Anemia: Risk, Symptoms and TreatmentDr. Ross is Assistant Professor of Medicine and Scientist, Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University Schools of Medicine and Nutrition.
This article is based on material first published in Nutrition in Clinical Care Vol. 5: Sept/Oct, 2002. Iron deficiency is a common problem, especially for women, so common, in fact, that 5% of women between the ages of 20 and 49 have iron deficiency with anemia and 11% have iron deficiency without anemia.(1) Anemia has a complicated technical definition, but in simple terms it means that a person's blood contains a lower than normal amount of red blood cells or other elements that help transport oxygen throughout the body. Often caused by a lack of iron, anemia gradually starves the body of the oxygen it needs, leading to symptoms such as extreme skin pallor, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and fatigue. Why We Need Iron
What many people don't know, however, is that iron plays a key role not only in the body's oxygen transport and delivery system, but also in the regulation of metabolism. Iron is needed to synthesize vital substances such as the brain chemical, dopamine, DNA and white blood cells. Thus iron deficiency can do much more harm than merely causing anemia; it can have widespread effects — from damaging a person's ability to think to weakening their resistance to infection.
It is a common misconception that the amount of iron our bodies absorb is directly related to the amount of iron we eat. While we do get most of our iron through food, getting enough iron is not quite as simple as eating well. For one thing, the ability of our digestive systems to absorb iron from the food we eat varies; for instance, those who are iron deficient do not absorb iron as well as those who are not. Because dietary iron comes in different forms, the percentage of dietary iron absorbed depends on the type of food we eat and what other foods are being eaten at the same time. For example, iron from meat is easier for the body to absorb than iron from vegetable and other sources. In addition, iron absorption can be greatly increased or decreased by various factors. Certain salts, which store iron and other minerals in plant matter, interfere with the ability of the human intestine to absorb them. Chemicals called polyphenols in tea, coffee, cocoa, spinach and oregano inhibit iron absorption as well. Eating more ascorbic acid, which is common in fruits, vegetables and fortified cereals, can improve iron absorption. Calcium inhibits the absorption of iron by an unknown mechanism. This is probably why studies show a correlation between high milk intake and iron deficiency. Who Is at Risk for Iron Deficiency?
Women in their childbearing years have greater iron needs than men as a result of menstrual blood loss, the increased iron demands of pregnancy and blood loss during childbirth. In addition, anything that causes heavier than normal menstrual periods, for example uterine fibroids, may lead to iron deficiency. Adolescent girls are at particular risk because, out of concern for their weight, many follow diets that reduce the amount of meat they eat at a time in their lives when their iron needs are increasing. Iron deficiency can also be caused by other types of chronic blood loss including internal bleeding from gastritis and ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, parasitic infections (this is more common in Third World populations than developed countries) and hemorrhoids.
The best way to prevent iron deficiency is to educate yourself about your iron needs and the best iron sources, and to use this knowledge to make sure dietary intake keeps pace with your body's demands. Recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) for men over the age of 19 and women over the age of 51 are 8 mg per day; for women ages 19 to 50, the RDA is 18 mg per day.(2) In the typical American diet, major sources of iron are meat, poultry, fish, nuts and seeds, legumes and bean products, green leafy vegetables, raisins, whole grains and fortified cereals. The iron content of some popular high iron foods is shown in Table 1. Table 1.
Iron Content of Selected High-iron Foods.
(202) Comments have been made Phillip
Iron tablets and berocca.Posted Tue, Apr. 2, 2013 at 12:51 am EDT
zeny
What is the management n prevention of iron deficiency anaemia?Posted Mon, Apr. 1, 2013 at 6:26 am EDT
Mrs Chavez
I have had shortness of breath ever since my hysterectomy which has been almost 2 yrs ago. It recently became so severe that my husband called 911. I have 2 Internel Medicine Drs trying to figure out what is causing my shortness of breath. They have no clue. I have been anemic before and I know I lost alot of blood during surgery. So I pray this is my answer. I need more IRON. Thank you JESUS. Im ready for my healing.Posted Sat, Mar. 16, 2013 at 1:18 am EDT
jayalakshmi
She is servicing bank,and she is getting both the hand felling less and back neck center getting slightly swelling. She getting alergy from iron,sulphur and pencilian etc.Posted Wed, Mar. 13, 2013 at 6:32 am EDT
JODIE
I had a miscarriage more than a couple months ago and the nurses took 3 blood tests to check everything like iron,hormone levels and sti, however they never got back to me and a couple months later my family/friends commented on How I looked saying 'looks like you have got low iron', a d i tried to improve my intake of food and iron and a couple months later found blood in my stool! What coul it be? HELP!Posted Sun, Mar. 10, 2013 at 8:09 pm EDT
swimchampion
Help I pulled an all nighter last night and finished 3 5hrs over a span of 15 hours. I never take that garbage just because I know how bad it is for you. I finally finished my paper, but my heart started racing and I just puked up whatever I've eaten today. I'm afraid to fall asleep but I also really can't right now because my heart is freaking out. Should I just wait it out?Posted Fri, Feb. 22, 2013 at 1:37 pm EST
Janice
Hi, I found the best, quickly and with almost 100% absorption is: Trophic Iron, it's chelated and makes it more absorbable and no stomach upset or constipation.
It is a Canadian company so you might have to order online, but well worth it.
Anemia can have several causes including vita b9 deficiency. Sometimes you just have to do your own research bc most doctors are too lazy to do a thorough check or are not trained to look for these things...
And the so called "normal" range is not normal for everyone.Posted Thu, Jan. 31, 2013 at 8:50 pm EST
Concerned mom of 17y/o daughter
My daughter has been c/o migraines, muscle spasms, heart papitations,fatigue,insomnia,night sweats, she has a diet low in iron rich foods. She went to her MD the other day and they wanted her to start taking Atenolol, Naproxen, Flexeril and follow up woth a cardiologist. Of course we purhased all these meds but something didn't feel right to me about her starting all these meds. The next day the MD called and said her iron was low. I forgot to mention she eats ice all the time and drinks cold water all the time. I am sure after she takes an iron supplement with vitamin C and begings to eat the iron rich foods that have been mentioned that she will fill alot better. I THINK WE WILL HOLD OFF ON THE ATENOLOL AND THE OTHER MEDS FOR NOW. THANKS FOR ALL YOUR IMPUT. GRATEFUL MOMPosted Thu, Jan. 31, 2013 at 1:03 am EST
gusmac
if you are from certain ethnic groups such as greek,italian maltese;cyprus,
black (african and american)Indian sub
continent;middle eastern (jewish;arab)
latino,NZ Maori; Pacific Islander;
chinese;southeast asian and are diabetic,
you are susceptable to variant hemoglobin
or haemoglobinopathy, a "genetic Trojan Horse" that confounds the HbA1c test in
diabetic management.
If your A1c is in the Low range 3.8to
5.5 and your BGls are high, tell the GP to do a fructosamine test to verfy
variant hemoglobin, If you dont "pick
This or the gp misses it then you run the risk of not getting medicated
correctly.i,m a Scot and 26yr type 2
and was recently diagnosed with
hemoglobinopathy.there are over 800 of
these variants,
SO KNOW HOW TO LOOK FOR THIS!
It is passed down the generations and
therefore anyone in a family with the
ethnic backgounds mentioned,kif
they become diabetic AlWAYS compare
Glucose Readings whith your HbA1c
results to "Screen" for the condition
regards
Angus MacPosted Sun, Jan. 27, 2013 at 10:11 pm EST
Anonymous
Hi Vanessa, the pins and needles feeling in your feet is quite possibly related to low B12 as it's a good nutrient that carers for the nerves... being vegetarians we miss out on B12 (unless you also eat fish?)... I'd encourage you to go to your doctor... they can do simple blood tests to clarify your iron and B12 etc levels. If you're low, you can easily get B12 injections to bring that up, they can recommend the best iron tablets too and anything else... please don't just self-medicate... the doctor will help clarify everything for you :) Best of luck Posted Sat, Jan. 26, 2013 at 7:24 am EST
Vanessa R.
Thanks so much for this! I've been having pins and needles on the tops of my feet for a little over an hour now off and on. As far as I know I am not a diabetic but I am a vegetarian with, as badly as I don't wanna admit, a poor diet. Could iron or other vitamin deficiencies cause any of this??? Also been having diarrhea and chills. First I thought I was sick but after a while I feel fine. I'm so confused but I'm gonna go take an iron pill so praying that helps. Thanks everyone! :)Posted Thu, Jan. 17, 2013 at 3:44 am EST
Jade
I'm not sure if my iron is low I'm sure it is as I've put 2 and 2 together and the doctors have not for years my iron has been up down up and down I get put on iron tablets it goes up I come off it goes down I haven't been on them for a while now and I keep coming down with sinusitis infections colds chest infections and ear infection and ive had all these in the past month or 2 .. Then on the 2nd of jan I woke up with sore ears a sore throat etc and it started to dye down abit yestersday so I thought I was gobs be alright today well I thought wrong my head keeps going dizzy and I keep puking my legs feel weak like jelly I'm tiered and I don't feel right every time I get out of bed I feel like I'm going to pass outPosted Sat, Jan. 5, 2013 at 6:08 pm EST
maisey
Hiya I'm 18 years old and have been experiencing some really bad chest pain, feel like it is hard to take a deep breath in, headache, tiredness, diziness, weak, pins and needles! I recently went to the docs and was told I had low iron, could these be symtoms of this? Posted Tue, Jan. 1, 2013 at 11:45 pm EST
Tamra
I have severe anemia. I have no insurance or job to go to Dr. I am so light headed and out of breath that it is even difficult to function on a daily basis. what can I do??Posted Fri, Dec. 14, 2012 at 5:46 pm EST
Gina
Hi BONNIE, I too had your symptoms and 18 months ago was diagnosed with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia as a result. Please have your hematologist check this as your symptoms warrant checking. Posted Sat, Nov. 10, 2012 at 9:56 am EST
Angie
I've been anemic for just about a year an I can't stand up without feeling like I'm gonna pass out, I sweat constantly no matter what an my arms an legs are tan but my chest an face are extremely pale you can see every vein in my chest an it's so embarrassing everyone's always asking why an I always have to wear hoodies cause I sweat like crazy I take iron pills but they don't help I don't know what to do...please help Posted Tue, Oct. 23, 2012 at 7:55 pm EDT
Bud
At age 82 my experience w/iron deficiency began. Could not sleep & weak all day ( practically a zombie). My Dr sent me to a sleep clinic. It was there that the Dr ordered a blood test. My hemoglobin was 8.7. I was hospitalized and given a blood transfusion. My Dr. apologized because I also suffered congestive heart failure. My message to you is: if you are completely wiped out and can't sleep -- SEEK HELP! I'm fine now (ferrous sulfate) and hope to see my great Grandchildren as long as I can. Posted Tue, Oct. 23, 2012 at 7:37 pm EDT
shayla
under your lower eye lid if there is a white line there dose it mean im anemic Posted Thu, Sep. 20, 2012 at 10:33 pm EDT
Allison
Hello Bonnie. Did you know that consuming spinach, calcium or products containing calcium, nuts, broccoli and whole grains actually pulls iron from the body about 60-70% of it? Please do not consume these products until your iron count gets to a safer level. Any kind of tea also pulls iron from the body, high fiber diets do too. Vitamin C and vitamin B12 absorbs iron. Also you must take the iron pills with orange juice on an empty stomach for best absorption. If you take it with food only some of it will be absorbed. Sweet potato also prevents iron from being absorbed--avoid it and so does sugar and soda! I often have creme of rice made by the same people who makes creme of wheat because 70% of it contains iron. Vitamin A is another thing that can reduce iron absorption, carrots are packed with vitamin A. This may be the reason you are still anemic you may be consuming too many of these foods. Hope this helps.Posted Thu, Sep. 20, 2012 at 10:03 am EDT
Carrie
to Bonnie Have you gone to the mayo clinic in MN? They are very thorough. They are even going the alternative route these days and use holistic methods. Don't give up. Help could be just around the corner! Posted Sun, Sep. 9, 2012 at 11:48 pm EDT
BONNIE
For three years now I have been getting blood transfusions along with 2 treatments of iron a week for 12 weeks, So what that means is every three months my iron level and red blood count drops to 6 and I get admitted to a hospital for two days to get the blood then when I get out I start the iron, For me I am at the end of my rope, I have a blood dr, lung dr; and gastro all on my case and not one of them know why my body can't produce iron or where the blood loss is coming from, I even had one Dr ask me if im giving my blood away.I woke up this morning knowing that everything is about to go wrong as I know now when Im getting to low, the tiredness, can't breath, dark stools. For to long I have let Dr;s do what they wanted to my body and put me on diffrent meds. No one here has touched on the iron iv treatments as of yet so I will, you sit in a chair as an out patient, for two hours twice a week. Getting all the iron you need through a tube. In my case it's painful because they have trouble finding vains with all my wight loss, I have been 110 for 3 years now, at the age of 46 not a healthy weight, I also can't eat a lot of foods i once enjoyed because my stomach wont allow me to eat like a normal person. so here is my question. I think im ready to stop all treatments and let God take over, has anyone ever just stopped doing what the Drs said? I no longer wish to be a ginny pig for them, and yes if it is Gods will I would like to go in peace, I have been told I will die if I choose to stop. But no one is in my shoes right now and they have no clue the daily battles i have to go through just to eat, My body is telling me enough,And Dr's say they don't know,I see five dr's a month every month; when im not doing treatments, my family is not understanding what I want to do and I think they are being selfish for not letting me do what i want, so if anyone has any new info on this please contact me, Posted Sun, Sep. 2, 2012 at 1:31 pm EDT
karin
no Tom, they will help, but they dont work overnight, it will be at least a month until you start feeling better. I felt totally lifeless and heavy legged when I started, but Im fine now- but it took 4 months to really feel back to normalPosted Wed, Aug. 1, 2012 at 7:25 am EDT
Tom Fowler
My doctor ask me to start taking iron supplements, however since I have been taking iron I have been so tired and no energy...Can iron supplements make one extremely tired, and no energy?Posted Thu, Jun. 21, 2012 at 12:20 pm EDT
Karin
hi I said that I would give my hair loss updates as I try new things! to remind-ive lost about 40% of my hair, Im healthy except for low ferritin- was 12 now 58 after 18 months, been taking iron tabs and in Jan I stopped using nicotine replacements as I read that overuse cases hair loss, I also started taking Viviscal and I overcame my embarrassement and went to a new hair dressr- a well respected/well known chain. they took a history and tested me with all their prods and then gave me a lovely colour and blunt hair cut, 2 weeks agao I noticed I have fine hairs growing around my hair line and Im delighted- its very early days tho and I will report agin in 2 months to see if the good results have continued Posted Thu, Jun. 7, 2012 at 8:25 am EDT
arnold dela cruz
what happen to a person taking ferrous sulfate once a day for years without iron deficiency anemia?Posted Mon, May. 28, 2012 at 4:13 am EDT
Anne Kruger
I need some advice for my hair that falls out . Don't have money for expensive stuff , would like some home remedy thank you Posted Sun, May. 27, 2012 at 2:44 am EDT
notenoughtocauseproblems
Hi, I have been feeling tired, achey, dizzy with tingling in fingers and unable to breathe on the slightest exertion,and cold with temp of 35.1C for many years. The breathlessness was beginning to scare me as thought it must be a heart problem or something. I have had numerous blood tests over the years CBC and Thyroid, always told normal. This time although my haemoglobin was low normal 12.1 the doctor decided to do the full iron profile. All the numbers where way off what they should be my ferritin is 5 and I have an increased number of small, pale red blood cells my current doctor summed it up that my body was battling to keep going; I said that was exactly how I felt. I am now on iron tablets but my other doctor still said that I am not anaemic enough to be having problems !! After reading the many posts on all the forums I am reassured that these sort of problems do occur and disappointed that with such overwhelming real evidence from many people that the doctors still dismiss it.
Posted Sun, Apr. 29, 2012 at 9:46 am EDT
Anonymous
I'm 21 years old and my doctor got scared with the results of my labs and sent me to a hematologist asap. Apparently there is absolutely no iron in my blood. Ferratin level is extremely low. Hemoglobin level is at 8 and my red blood cells are abnormally small I'm scheduled for an iron infusion in two days and I feel so weak. Anyone else ever feel as if there is no blood circulating to your arms and hands to the point where it hurts to move them? I'm also finding it hard to sleep at night and have been experiencing heart palpitations. I'm a little nervous for the infusion but can't wait to start feeling better. Posted Tue, Apr. 3, 2012 at 2:36 am EDT
Joy
Try geritol tonic - liquid iron! It works great and very fast. I have B12 Anemia and take 3 b-12 shots per week along with my geritol. Geritol has been around a long time and is not expensive $3 - $4 at walmart. I found the iron pills do not work well but the liquid does.Posted Mon, Mar. 26, 2012 at 2:52 pm EDT
shameka
Hi, I can understand some people's problems.in December. I was taking asprins due to very bad periods. Little did I know if you take a lot of asprins. And energy medicines that the doctor didn't prescribed to you it can make your iron very low. I went to the emergency room in December right before Christmas because I was having anxiety attacks due to not feeling well and feeling tired and visions being kinda off even with my glasses on. When I went to the doctor on January I told the doctor my symptoms which were headaches nausea blurry vision horribly weak tired and I had to call in from work for a weak due to these symptoms. The doctor took my blood tested and she said that everything was OK except my iron was very low which was a 10. So she put me on ferrous sulphate 325 mg twice a day. In Feb I got my blood tested for monthly blood work and it went up a little inch(just a hair). She told me that it takes a while.she prefers me to a neurologist for the dizziness and blurry vision. They said they were going to do a MRI. But still in progress due to insurance. During that time. The symptoms weren't worse. I was just tired of them. Like the unexplained fatigue all the time. But learned to control it by eating three times a day and snack also. Now it's March. And the dizziness went away and the fatigue has gotten a little better and im still on my medicines. I still have the weird vision problems and trouble concentrating. Just get concerd and unpatient about my health.for everyone that is going through this i pray that you feel better soonPosted Wed, Mar. 7, 2012 at 5:43 pm EST
Karin
Esta- I have the same problem.Been on iron supps for more than a year and ferritin gone from 12 to 42 so its a slow battle. Docs have same response, that's because there isn't much more they can do.My hair is very thin but not patchy- yet! make sure you include iron rich diet and vit c
( mussels/tinned fish etc) and try and stay cool. Don't know your age, but that could also have an effect on hair loss. On plus side, I have tons more energy and go running/dancing/the gym- if you knew me a year ago you wouldn't believe that! Try cutting out nicotine if you currently smoke( im trialling this at the moment to see it hair growth improves -been cigi/nicotene replacement gum/tablets etc free for 9 weeks so far- will keep you posted
Posted Wed, Mar. 7, 2012 at 8:10 am EST
Esta
I have had diagnosed Celiac disease for 2 and half years. I am very strict with my diet but for some reason my body still won't store iron which I think is connected to my thinning hair. So worried as just had serum ferritin results today from doctor's and its actually gone down to 29. I am taking 3 iron tablets a day and I understand serum ferritin should be around 70 for optimal hair growth. Doctors are losing interest as they say I'm not anaemic and there's nothing else they can do. What else could be stopping my body from storing iron, I don't want to lose any more hair.Posted Mon, Mar. 5, 2012 at 3:01 pm EST
baja
I have read that if you take vitamin C with the iron supplements it help to absorb it. Also do not take it with calcium as this does the opposite. Take your calcium at a different time in the day.Posted Tue, Feb. 21, 2012 at 8:54 am EST
Janine
Yes, absolutely get ferritin levels checked. I have gone for 18 years with low ferritin (6) and low B12 (231). Low B12 can often accompany low iron, so get both checked. Last spring I was so ill I could barely walk a block, think, or speak in complete sentences - and it wasn't until I started researching on my own that I figured out what the problem was. The "normal" ranges in Canada are far to wide. In Japan a B12 under 500 is treated, and my doctor recently went to a symposium where the optimal range for ferritin is 100 - but because I was at the low end of the normal range she didn't flag it, and by the time I got sick the symptoms were so severe that we thought it was something much more serious. I went from a 6 to a 29 in five months. Am using Floradin which is easy on the system. Am using a B12 spray ordered from the Dr. Mercola website. Am feeling about 80 percent better, but it will take another six months or so to recover fully. I've been sharing this information, especially with women, so that others can avoid getting into the same situation. To your health!Posted Fri, Feb. 17, 2012 at 6:48 pm EST
Lynn
Make sure you check your ferritin level also. Ferritin is the iron in your body. If you are low on iron your body will take it's own supply. If the ferritin and iron level are low it is bad news. Mine is less than 3 (ferritin) with a low iron level too. If it doesn't go up shortly I will have to have an iron transfusion.
Posted Thu, Feb. 9, 2012 at 6:40 pm EST
Brenda Smith
i have never been told by a doctor that i am anemic but i always have really bad headaches at least 3 times every week am dizzy off and on through out the day (happens every couple days) and my menstrual cycle is always heavy for the first 4 days....could i be anemic Posted Mon, Feb. 6, 2012 at 11:37 pm EST
traci
I was told anemia causes circulatoty problems--has any1 else ever had red /blackish toes & fingers off & on)?Posted Sun, Feb. 5, 2012 at 4:16 am EST
Anonymous
hi Elizabeth- you need to get these answers from your Doctor.could be lots of reasons- heavy monthlies, not eating enough iron-rich food, extreme dieting and plenty of other reason, so go to your doctor and they will find out what's going on.Posted Tue, Jan. 31, 2012 at 7:06 am EST
Elizabeth
For the past 12 mths I have not been feeling normal, I am constantly tired and weak, pain in muscles, neck and shoulder, pain in legs, brain fog, insomina, dizziness, chest pains, panic anxiety, muscle spasm, loss of concentration etc. I just did a iron test and it is 8.8. This is the lowest it has every been. One year ago it was 11.5. Where is my iron going?Posted Mon, Jan. 30, 2012 at 12:50 pm EST
Lee
I've recently had blood tests done showing my iron levels are very low. I don't know what is the normal or average level or what my level is. I'm 50 and aware that my iron has always been low, as is my blood pressure. I feel that I've been tired all my life, even as a child, never enough energy to play sports, always wanting a day time sleep, never enough energy to walk or do exercise; I've always thought I'm just a lazy person, however after much research over the last few days I'm convinced in have serious Iron Deficiency Anaemia - it all makes sense. My symptoms have always been; always tired, fatique, light-headedness; get dizzy easily; no strength in my legs; fast and strong heart beat for no obvious reason; poor concentration, stiff neck which no amount of massage relieves; a general feeling of laziness and weakness. I've always been like this but the last few months much more than usual. Also my eyes are always tired and aching even though I upgrade my glasses every 12 months! I'd give anything to feel just moderately energetic. I'm currently taking B Complex tablets; Iron Fumarate 5mg x 2 tablets and a Swisse women's herbal vitamin tablet. Not seeing my Dr again till 4th Feb, then see a Gyno about a hysterectomy. Does anyone have suggestions re the best Iron supplements for a better iron level recovery? I'm self employed so don't get sick pay if I can't work and I have no energy to work at all these days, I feel so lazy, I'm sick of being tired, weak and lethargic - I just want to do work and exercise without feeling axhausted all the time, it's very depressing :( Posted Mon, Jan. 16, 2012 at 8:00 pm EST
karen
hello all, still losing my hair! ferritin gone from 12 to 45 in 18 months, so its a long journey.If people are reading this site and expecting a fast recovery, they need patience. Physically I'm recovered now- not tired any more, no heavy legs or breathlessness and I do lots of regular cardio to try and further improve- BUT hair still a bit rubbish. I read recently about a link between hair loss and nicotine ( in cigarettes and in cigarette replacement products) and its the extra push I need to try and quit, will keep you all posted if I get any changes to my hair- best wishes to all.Posted Mon, Jan. 16, 2012 at 8:26 am EST
Carla Smith
I have been anemic since i was 6 years old and have always fainted when i saw blood but it had stopped for years and now i think im acking more iroon than usual and feel like im gonna faint constantly now i a=have no idea wat to do Posted Sun, Jan. 15, 2012 at 11:33 pm EST
Anonymous
lerissa ask them to check your ferritin levelsPosted Sat, Jan. 7, 2012 at 11:07 am EST
Jen
I was just diagnosed with anemia, and my dr. wants me to have a colonoscopy & upper gi endoscopy to determine the cause. I'm guessing it's my vegetarian diet, though I've been a veggie for 10+ years. My main symptom is insomnia. I am exhausted and can't sleep through the night. I wake every 2 hours. I also have aches & pains in my legs, arms & back. Any insight? How long do the sleepless nights last?Posted Sat, Jan. 7, 2012 at 11:04 am EST
Julie
I have had thyroid problems all my life, going from hyper to hypo. I had rai 3 years ago and am now on thyroxin. Iron levels have always been low, but after crashing with severe headaches, nausea, shortness of breath and hairloss. I was diagnosed with fructose intolarance. This stoped iron from being absorbed. Its now been 4 months on fructose free diet and iron levels are getting better, feeling amazing and hairloss has slowed down. I have no shortness of breath and no head aches. Check in with doctor because it could be something so simple as change of diet. good luckPosted Fri, Dec. 30, 2011 at 9:33 pm EST
Lerissa
I have been having chest pains , daily fatigue, dizziness, ive taken bloods, xray, everything is normal, been today, my pressure was normal, doc says im physco, feeling very ill, plse help.Posted Mon, Dec. 26, 2011 at 12:36 pm EST
kerry
How long does it take for iron tabs to work feel so weak can't look after my family feel irregular heartbeat all the time as soon as i start walking it starts to band in my chest and it hurts to breathe felt like this now for 6 weeks .Posted Thu, Dec. 22, 2011 at 11:57 am EST
sara
I went to Dr. he said i am borderline anemic . he gave me iron tablets for 3 months but I did not took them feel so tired and depressed and don’t like to see my Dr againPosted Sat, Dec. 17, 2011 at 8:22 am EST
monique
Please get tested for Celiac disease. Wheat gluten can destroy lining of small intestines leading to many of the issues all of you are discussing.
I have severe iron deficiency anemia and was referred to a hemoglobin specialist. I'm getting iron infusions for 12 weeks. Blood test came back showing probable celiac and am going to a GI for final diagnosis.
symptoms can be severe iron def. anemia, thyroid problems, diabetes, gi problems, bloating.....
eliminating wheat, barley and rye from your diet cures intestines. Posted Thu, Dec. 1, 2011 at 11:47 pm EST
Anonymous
Once you begin taking iron supplements you should start to feel better within two weeks. You need to continue to take your iron supplements up to six months to build up the iron stores in your bone marrow. Always take your iron with vitamin C as it helps your body absorb iron. If you continue to struggle with low iron, you may want to talk to your gynecologist about heavy periods, as this is usually the cause of anemia in females. There are many things that can be done to control heavy periods I.e. Prometrium ( natural orogesterone) birth control, endometrial ablation ( permanent; makes having kids no longer an option) or partial/full hysterectomy. Try to start with the least invasive procedure, and above all if aren't comfortable with your doctor, go to a different one.Posted Wed, Nov. 16, 2011 at 11:39 pm EST
Anonymous
My blood work just came back with a hemoglobin of 7! My dr is very concerned. I am taking 365mg 3x's a day. I am so tired I can barely walk up my stairs and I am a previous marathon runner. I have 3 boys under 5!! When will i start to feel better?!
Posted Tue, Nov. 8, 2011 at 8:28 pm EST
imene
salut,j'ai 21 ans et je souffre d'une anémie sévère depuis 3 ans j'ai un manque de fer horrible et un taux d'hémoglobine très faible 8 au lieu de14_16 ,de plus que le taux de bilirubine directe est élevé le double de la normale j'ai pris un traitement mais ca n'a rien donner quels sont les risques liés a une telle anémie??
Posted Sat, Nov. 5, 2011 at 12:12 pm EDT
Lynnw
Hi Kirsty Iam 40 and was diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia 2 weeks ago. I know how you feel so weak its horrible and my legs would hurt so bad. I was treated with an iron infusion because my iron was so low. I feel so much better all ready.I was told it will take a few weeks before I will feel optimal. Since you are taking iron supplements it might take a while before you feel like yourself because it takes time for your body to build up your iron stores.Posted Fri, Oct. 21, 2011 at 8:44 pm EDT
kirsty
Hi
I'm 31 just been diagnosed with iron deficiency anaemia.....symptoms are worrying me, i'm absolutely exhausted all the time, my legs ache and i;m freezing cold, i fell like my legs won't carry me around. I'm taking Iron 200mg 3 times a day does anyone know how long it will take for me to feel better??
All this happened after i had an early miscarriage and had severe haemorrhage with continuous bleed for 5 weeks.
I'm struggling to even drive the car, i feel that weak... looking after the kids is a complete struggle and i just what to feel normal again :-(Posted Fri, Oct. 21, 2011 at 3:59 pm EDT
Lisa
I was just rushed to the hopsital today after being out of breath by walking up one flight of steps, dizzy, and light-headed. I have been craving ice terribly (forgot to mention this to doctors today) but now that I am reading down your blog responses, looks like I might have low iron. They think it is anxiety but I don't have any stress in my life. ThoughtsPosted Fri, Oct. 21, 2011 at 1:26 pm EDT
anno..
im 26 year old male i have swollen fingers (i can't make a fist) also i'm always sleepy even when i wake up from a 9 hour sleep! after googling my symptoms and the other answers i have come across i am hoping that i am anemic! Did any of you with anemia have the problem of swollen fingers and fatigue?Posted Thu, Sep. 22, 2011 at 5:46 am EDT
Lisa G.
Im 31 this year and I have had Anemia since probally 17. It didnt get really bad until I was 26 and thats when a fibroid was found, I would bleed REALLY heavy!! My Hemo was a 5 at one point. I dont know I made it. I had the fibroid removed in june 2009, but one was discovered again during my pregnancy april 2010. Last month my blood test came back that I had Mycrocytic Anemia, thats when the size of your red blood cells are smaller than usual, due to the lack of iron in your hemoglobin.My hemo was an 8.3 and they put me on 325mg of iron. twice a day. I have my days when Im so tired and light headed, esspecially when Im walking around. I feel weak alot of days. My brain feels like a fog, its hard for me to focus sometimes. Doctor told me its going to take awhile to be back to my olf self, with energy. I wondering is there anybody else who is going through the same thing?? and how long does it take to feel better? Before now, I never use to take my iron like I should...so I guess this is why It gradully got worse over timePosted Fri, Sep. 16, 2011 at 8:23 pm EDT
annoynymous
Hi,
I'm 18 and two weeks ago I was diagnosed with anemia and a possible case of hypothyroidism. I'm currently only taking iron supplements twice a day. Now my period is 7 days late I am sexually active but due to my anemia my cycle has been late in the past. Should I be worried about pregnancy?Posted Thu, Sep. 15, 2011 at 11:12 pm EDT
leth
hi ive been takein 3 200mg ferrios sulphate for a few months now but it says i cant have many foods such as wholegrains milk tea coffe and egg i know with tea and coffie they have caffeine in that drain the iron from your body and even decaff has caffeine in but i dont know why wholegrains and milk effects iron in such way could you please explain why it tells me not to injest such items thxPosted Sat, Sep. 10, 2011 at 10:12 am EDT
Tracey
Just turned 40 in March. I hadn't been feeling well since last summer. Getting very tired, dizzy, muscle pains, nails splitting, confused & just a NOT right feeling. Had blood work in Feb 2011 and my hemoglobin level was a 6. Had to go to the hospital in Early March after I was very dizzy and almost fell at work. I needed two blood transfusions. Dr.s believe it was a severe iron deficiency from over time, probably due to heavy periods. Been taking lots of Iron. Then in June I started losing my hair in massive amounts and the texture is completely different.I'm still losing my hair & it's getting very depressing. I've called my hematologist and I have an appt. but does anyone know if all the hair loss can be a side effect from the transfusions? I just don't know what to do anymore. Any info would be greatly appreciated!!!
Thank you,
Tracey Posted Fri, Sep. 2, 2011 at 12:57 pm EDT
Rebecca
Hi Karen, I also had hair loss in the early days but after a few months it calmed down and started to grow back. Recently after stopping my iron tabs 4 months ago I noticed fatigue, hair loss etc so a couple of weeks ago I went back on iron tabs and my hair loss is slowing down again! My low iron is due to my monthlies - I feel that I'm quite heavy. I'm to from England. Hope your hair loss has stopped now. XPosted Thu, Sep. 1, 2011 at 3:36 am EDT
aussierules
what would happen to a person
if they took thyroid tabs
when they were not prescribed to themPosted Tue, Aug. 23, 2011 at 5:40 am EDT
Emeraldj
Donna, Heart palpitations and headaches are symptoms of anemia. I have heart palps as well, tho they are getting better since I am still currently on iron. Do your heart palps decrease the longer you are on iron?Posted Tue, Aug. 9, 2011 at 5:07 pm EDT
Fauzia
I am 27 years old girl my weight is 49 kg and hemoglobin rate is 10 what should i do to increase it?Posted Tue, Aug. 9, 2011 at 1:15 pm EDT
donna
I have been battling Iron deficiency anemia for over 15 yrs....I take iron then my lvls are good and as soon as I stop my iron is back down....it has been a constant battle for me....I have heart palpitations and see a cardiologist for it, and am a chronic headache and migraine sufferer and see a neurologist for that....but am wondering if all this factors in to the anemia....what I want to know is what is causing my anemia that has made it stick around for over 15 yrs!Posted Tue, Aug. 9, 2011 at 12:27 pm EDT
Sherry
I am continuing to improve. My hair has thickened up and is growing. I don't have as many problems with my eyes being red. I'm continuing takin iron and also biotin to help my hair.Posted Sat, Jul. 23, 2011 at 7:26 pm EDT
Emeraldj
I was diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia 2 weeks ago and have been taking 2 iron tabs a day. I am feeling better, but am still having some chest pain and palipitations and tingling in feet. How long before the chest pain and syptoms go away? I know it takes a while to raise iron, hemoglobin, hematocrit levels but how long before I am symptom free, mainly chest pain free?Posted Thu, Jul. 21, 2011 at 7:05 pm EDT
kay
Try blood builder by megafoods. Also try the book healing with whole foods. For a young active girl headaches can be from lack of calcium especially around her period. Also drink water to prevent headaches from dehydration.Posted Sat, Jun. 25, 2011 at 11:16 am EDT
Anonymous
Hi, I have been taking Biotin 1000mcg's 2x's a day and it helps with hair loss. It is a supplement that you can buy at any store.
Hope this helps! Posted Fri, Jun. 24, 2011 at 4:27 pm EDT
Anonymous
Hi Karen
I think that it will be quite hard to find someone because there are lots of other factors-e.g, although we are not anaemic any more, our hair loss may also be additionally affected by hormonal hair loss in addition to the hair loss that was caused by the lack of iron, so the iron tabs alone might not be a complete answer for us- people may respond with a good result from the iron, but this may be because there were no additional factors- ie hormones etc.Yes it gets me down,but I will still continue with the iron, but also consider there might be other factors ( hormones, genetic female hair loss etc)and try and find other options and solutions. you sound like your iron increase is really good, so as soon as you get over 70, if you still dont see any improvement, speak to a Doctor again- good luckPosted Thu, Jun. 16, 2011 at 6:48 am EDT
annoymous
Hi, I am an teenage girl and I have noticed that I have started getting headaches more often. I also get short of breath when I exercise. I thought it might be anaemia but I'm not sure. Also I drink hardly any water at all -- somtimes only have one drink a day with my dinner do you know if there's anything wrong? Posted Wed, Jun. 15, 2011 at 11:51 am EDT
jenny
I am 21 weeks pregnant and am on pregaday because my iron was a bit low. I had another blood test and the doc phoned this morning and said carry on taking them for 2 weeks then have another test. I'm worried now that for the 2 weeks my baby wont be getting enough oxygen. Should I be??Posted Tue, Jun. 14, 2011 at 4:56 am EDT
Karen
Hi Karen. I have not looked into hair replacement as of yet. I was hoping you would respond and were doing better with your loss so that I would have hope as I have talked previously on this forum and our stories were similar. I still have enough to hide thinner areas. It seems the crown loss may have slowed, and the back is now thinning more. Maybe has something to do with monthly hormones? I have been taking 65 mg of ferrous sulfate 3x a day rather than 2x. My levels have improved quickly, I think. Iron was 21, and two months later 63. Ferritin was 4, and then 17. But, hair is still coming out. I would like to find someone who has been through this, has gotten their levels up, and has had their hair come back. It sounds like you need some reassurance too. Posted Mon, Jun. 13, 2011 at 8:00 pm EDT
Karin
Hi Karen, Im the same as you. Been taking iron for a year now and Im not anaemic any more, but my hair still falling out. my serum around 40-50 and hair half the density it was. Really hard to disguise now and getting me down.Im being told to keep going until serum reaches above 70, but that looks to be at least another 6 months- by then I could be bald!!Ive been tested for thyroid etc and nothing. Im going next week, to find out about lace top hair replacements, that weave your own hair into a framework of additional hair- to be honest thats the only thing I can do- I cant wear normal extensions as my crown hair is too thin- have you looked at any solutions?Posted Mon, Jun. 13, 2011 at 9:08 am EDT
Karen
Is there anyone out there who has their hair loss stop once the iron levels have reached a certain point? My iron levels are increasing but hair loss has not slowed as my other symptoms have improved. I have been loosing hair since August 2010. I am having a hard time remaining optimistic. Thanks for any response.Posted Sun, Jun. 12, 2011 at 4:12 pm EDT
mandy smith
My hb is 6. Is that low? I am 44.Posted Sat, Jun. 11, 2011 at 12:51 am EDT
Crystal
I have been having really bad chest pain for about three days. It's sharp and radiating into my neck. I'm tired, I can't sleep, or I sleep all day, I'm freezing, my legs keep cramping up, AND I'm eating ice again. I'm going to the ER tomorrow but I'm pretty sure my hemocrit number is down again. Last time I was in the hospital it felt the same and my number was 7. I am scared to go to sleep because I feel so bad and I'm so frightened. YIKESPosted Fri, May. 20, 2011 at 11:02 pm EDT
Cheryl
I average a hospital stay every 3 months and get from 3 to 5 pints of blood, my stool gets black and I get so weak I cant walk across the room
they cant find the causePosted Thu, May. 19, 2011 at 11:03 am EDT
Sonia
Hi Everyone,
I started having the following symptoms in early Jan 2011.
Extreme fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, heart palpatations, shortness of breath, dizziness, poor memory, night sweats, headaches, unable to sleep, longitudinal ridges on nails, Irritability & hair loss. Dr. ordered CT scan of pelvis & abdomen, results were normal, went to specialist had upper GI done, results were normal, had gastric emptying study done, results were normal. finally had blood work done, it showed low iron. On 1/10/11 Ferritin was 7, Iron was 47, TIBC was 594, transferrin was 8, IBC unsaturated was 547, Hematocrit was 33.6 & HGB was 11.2.
Started taking Nature Made Iron 65mg equivalent to 325mg Ferrous Sulfate 2 x's a day along with a vitamin c. No digestive problems or side effects from these supplements. Retested on 4/8/11 Ferritin was 17 (slowly rising, but still not normal) normal range is 22-291ng/ml. Iron was 90, TIBC was 445, Transferrin was 20, IBC unsaturated was 355, Hematocrit was 41.4 & HGB was 13.5.
I retest on 6/10/11.
I was off from work from Jan - mid April due to the nausea and fatigue.
I no longer have nausea but at times still have loss of appetite. I have lost 15 pounds since this all started. I still have the hair loss daily. I still feel dizzy at times. But i must say that my symptoms have improved.
I eat more food with Iron, I take a tablespoon of unsulphured blackstrap molasses every morning as this is high in iron. I eat malt o meal or total cereal with raisins as it has a lot of iron also. I do not drink coffee anymore. I cut back on my tea also as i have read that coffee & tea take away from iron absorption.
I will keep you updated on my latest results in June. I'm going to start some vitamins for my hair so hopefully it won't fall out as much.
Thank you to all of you for your posts because it has really helped me.
Good Luck to everyone out there dealing with this. Posted Wed, May. 18, 2011 at 5:43 pm EDT
Anonymous
Hi Cherie
I'm in the uk and its called flurosene. It's quite a high dose per day 75mg i think?? (I haven't got the packet here to check). It also contains Vit C and lycopene and poss some b vits?. I also take berrocca, a high daily vit c supplement and eat lots of iron rich food- but for all the help it's doing I feel like eating chips and chucking the iron tabs away! Any advice? Thank you for responding Posted Mon, May. 16, 2011 at 7:12 am EDT
Cherie
Hello Kazza, which iron supplement are you taking and what's the dosage? Are you also taking any mutivitamins?
@ Karin: which iron tablet are you taking and what vitamins are you taking with that?Posted Fri, May. 13, 2011 at 2:09 am EDT
kazza
Hi
has anyone suffered hair loss as a result of anaemia? and more importantly - found a way to grow it back? Ive been taking Iron supps (specially designed to promote hair growth) for over a year and my hair is still falling out. Serum was 5 , now around 40. Any positive tips or feedback very welcome please! Posted Tue, May. 10, 2011 at 9:30 am EDT
Shondra from Memphis
I having been feeling really really bad every since I had twins 8 years ago, tired all the time, eyes red and tired looking, sluggish all through the day, not really wanting to deal with anyone, very irritable, don't want to go no where or do anything but sleep basically, after getting blood work done, my dr says everything is fine iron just low, but still diagnosed me with depression, and wants me to start taking prozac, I went to pick up the prescription and read the side affects, and decided against taking them...may cause increased suicidal thoughts, dang what's wrong with my dr, Is she trying to kill me...so anyway I decided to start my own regimen, and started taking iron pills, I am going to update you all on the progress.
Good luck to you and God Bless!!!Posted Tue, Apr. 26, 2011 at 9:30 pm EDT
Nichole and friend
Hi- I have a friend who has odd symptoms and I don't know what it could be and I'm hoping that someone here can tell me what it could be..he has been having chest pain, cant sleep at night, lately hasn't been able to keep his food down, and has very thin blood..he got a small scab on his elbow about the size of an ant and he scratched it and started bleeding.. He didn't stop bleeding for at least 2 to 3 minutes later.he sometimes has random head aches..I think that is all the symptoms he has..any one know what it could be? I am very worried for him! We cant go to a doctor because of money issues. He is 19 years old by the way.Please help.:(Posted Thu, Mar. 31, 2011 at 2:42 pm EDT
Shaybay
My mother is very very stuborn and never wants to go to the doctor. She has been very irritable, moody, sleeping alottt!!!!, and when she wakes up, shes still tires and so weak she'll go back to sleep. shes the greatest mom ever, well no ever but you get what im saying, shes a good mom but this is effecting her everyday life. she could be suffering depression or it could be an even more serious problem. please help. thanks.Posted Wed, Mar. 30, 2011 at 8:05 pm EDT
Tired &Fed up
Hello, I am 17 & I have been feeling bad off & on since I was 13/14. We have always just figured it was iron def. But we don't have a family doctor. Recently it has been the worst I have ever felt; no doubt about it. About 2 months ago I started taking daily vitamins & I was starting to feel better, but now I feel lousy again. I get major cramps & pains through out my legs, & hands, I get daily migraines. I didn't know they were a sign of iron def but I get them daily which is making me miss lots of school. I also have yellow nails, my toe nails have groves in them , my eyes hurt or feel "tired". I can sleep for 10 hours & still feel crazy tired, my eyes get a red tint to them in the afternoon, my body temperature fluctuates like crazy.
Diabetes run in my family, & a lot of my family members have iron def. I am hoping somehow we can get some blood work done, but last time we tried they just told me to record when I get my migraines & told me to take aspirin. What should I do? Does it sound like an iron def? I also had to take iron drops when I was younger (from birth) for quite awhile & even now my teeth are permanentley tinted yellow from them. Thanks in advance. I also have hair that falls out like crazy, I know that on average you are supposed to lose 100 hairs a day, but I lose way more & already having thin hair that's not growing is annoying!Posted Mon, Mar. 21, 2011 at 12:39 pm EDT
Erica
I have anemia. I have been feeling weak, sick, fatigue, and just really not myself. I want to the Er and they told me I was 10 weeks pregnant and that my hemoglobin level was 7.9. Is that safe or normal? I feel really bad, should I go back and tell them I am feeling worse.Posted Sat, Mar. 12, 2011 at 6:38 pm EST
Petah
Angela, you need to see a doctor as soon as you can and get this under control!Posted Mon, Mar. 7, 2011 at 6:58 am EST
Anonymous
I'm no doctor but I assume that a teenager will receive the required amount of iron from a normal balanced diet that includes moderate amount of red meat, lots of veggies and balanced carbs and proteins, fats etc. Females might wish to ensure that they include regular iron in their diet by reading and including iron rich foods as mentioned on this site.Posted Mon, Feb. 28, 2011 at 7:55 am EST
v3ro0n!k@
What is the recommended daily amount of iron for a teenager? Posted Fri, Feb. 25, 2011 at 11:39 am EST
veronica menchaca
What will happen to the body if the body is deficient (doesn't have enough) of this particular nutrient?Posted Fri, Feb. 25, 2011 at 11:27 am EST
karin
Karen- no, my hair is isnt regrowing but the amount coming out has decreased by about 70% Previously, when showering I would lose about 10 long hairs and lots more in my hairbrush- I would guess Ive lost about 40-50% of my total volume now. recently its maybe a couple of hairs in the shower and a lot less in my hairbrush- totally understand what you are saying I really hate this aspect- also concerned that by the time its starts improving I will be bald!!my Im due to get latest ferritin results on Wed, so will post an update. Meantime, after failing with clip - in extensions ( hair too thin on crown, so the clips are noticible) Im going to see a woman that offers things like transparent scalp covering where hair can be threaded in, she also does clip ins, all different types of extensions and the spray stuff- just really so that I can see if any other options might be available? will post results!Posted Mon, Feb. 21, 2011 at 10:33 am EST
Barbara
I have been diagnosed with restless legs for a couple of years now and the doctor asked me one day if I have heartburn, absolutely was my response every day all day. He ordered a blood and GI workup & found blood in stool sample and then ordered a GI workup, colonoscopy, endoscopy and pill cam and found no bleeding in my stomach but found low ferritin count of 11. I am taking iron infusion, had 1st one Thursday, don't feel any better so far, but my symptoms were tired all the time, grouchy, no sleep hardly at all. I'm hoping for better days ahead. Stomach is still hurting after eating, but they still don't know the cause. Any body out there have same problems. Posted Mon, Feb. 21, 2011 at 7:43 am EST
Pania
I have had ongoing problems for quite a long time, for almost 18years with my iron levels, and i feel like the tablets aren't helping me at all. I feel tired all the time, I can't go for walks with my family because I'm always tired. I find it hard to go to sleep. I am always very irritable,and grumpy, loss of concentration, and sometimes I can't remember what I'm s'posed to be doing. I get random headaches now and again. When I'm walking upstairs at work my heart is wickedly racing, and I find it quite hard to breathe sometimes. I've lost interest in doing alot of things that I would like to be doing, and become very depressed because of this. I have given birth to 9 children, the oldest who is almost 17, and the youngest who are twins they are 3. I have had very heavy periods since having the twins. Quite scary, as Im scared of my children losing their mum at a young age, I am almost 36 years old. I was very sporty and loved going tramping in my teenage years but now i feel completely the opposite. I feel like there has been 20 years added to my age. Due to our family budget, it's not often that I can see a doctor let alone buy more iron pills. hmmmmmmmmm?Posted Sat, Feb. 19, 2011 at 8:53 pm EST
Melanie
I also have heart palpatations, and I also find it hard sleeping at night. I always jump out of my bed, and grab on to something. This happens often. Maybe two or three times in the night.
Posted Sat, Feb. 19, 2011 at 12:59 am EST
Melanie
I have been diagnosed with Iron Deficiency. I am better now though. I was wondering if anyone still has symptoms? I find I have shortness of breath, and I have these little mini panic attacks for about 5-10 seconds, and then I feel fine again. Anyone else get like this? My iron was at a 86 when I first was diagnosed. Now it's up to 126, and normal iron is 120. Does anyone get symptoms from the iron pills? I have had iron drops when I was a baby and they rotted away my teeth, so basically I had this my whole life. Posted Sat, Feb. 19, 2011 at 12:56 am EST
Kitty
@ Confused - Nov. 28, 2010 at 12:56 am
You definitely sound like you have anemia. I'm not an expert but definitely sounds like it. Have a blood test. I have suffered anemia on and off all of my life after having my duodenum damaged when a moron doctor told my mom to give me aspirin every 4 hours for stomach aches when I was 8 years old - my duodenum haemorrhaged! but anyhoo back to you - again as I said, I'm not an expert but eating cholesterol laiden foods does not increase your cholesterol levels - cholesterol levels are subject to our own body chemistry, namely hormones, the much maligned Dr Atkins knew all about this - in fact high cholesterol and high triglycerides come from consuming too many carbohydrates and deep fried fast foods. I follow a fairly low carb diet and eat organic meats, chicken, fish, organic eggs, cream, milk & butter - and my cholesterol and triglycerides always test in the low/healthy range - I am 39 years old. I eat a lot of raw & lightly steamed low density veg, small amount of pasta, brown rice and an even smaller amount of whole grain low gluten bread - my mom and siblings eat crap and have heart disease, diabetes, cholesterol issues and suffer from weight gain/obesity.
Posted Fri, Feb. 18, 2011 at 9:57 pm EST
karen
karin-have you seen any improvement on your hair loss yet? I too have been experiencing hair loss and thinning since august. Lost half of my volume it seems. Mainly my bangs and crown area. I can deal with the loss of energy, foggy thinking, and eye sensitivity but I am afraid that I may be bald by the time my levels increase. Ferritin 4, iron 27, saturation 5, and hemoglobin 11.9. I have been taking ferrous sulfate 65mg 3x a day for 2 weeks now and adding more iron rich foods. Foggy thinking a little better - hair coming out like crazy though. Posted Fri, Feb. 18, 2011 at 8:35 pm EST
Anna/Sylmar, Ca
I am also anemic. I take three chewable iron pills a day. I discovered an energy drink that helps me throughout the day. It is XS sold through Amway. I'm not to impressed with what's out there, but this was an eye opener! I can't remember feeling so good in a long time. Good luck to all of you!Posted Fri, Feb. 18, 2011 at 2:23 am EST
Irenne Knight
After three years of problems with Iron I know how you feel. I went to donate blood as a good will thought as a friend had been diagnosed with Cancer. To my shock I was admitted to Hospital with a HG level of 4. Unknown to me this was very dangerous. I recieved over 10 Iron infusions and started to feel great. Like you say it takes a long time to get your levels up again. Then last October I was starting to get pains in my chest when doing any excercise, I booked an appointment and was put back on Iron tablets after three months I felt terrible. Having headaches, couldnt concentrate, not sleeping very well. I wnet for another blood test, results came back HG was 7 . Dr told me to take Spatone a natural treatment, I gave it a go. But then collapsed at the gym and got taken to Hospital. So far have had two Iron infusions, level had dropped back down to 5! Hoping to run the Rome marathon in 4 weeks!
Posted Thu, Feb. 17, 2011 at 2:42 pm EST
karin
hi Jessica
your iron levels will remain the same during the day. ask if your GP did a blood test for serum ferritin? -once ferritin runs out ( below 10) you become anaemic, and your GP will usually treat you with iron supps, but while its 10 or above you may not be regarded as anaemic, but you will start getting symptoms. Mine was 12, I was classed as borderline and now I take Iron and 3 months ago it was 28 ( am awaiting latest results) already feel tons better. but you shouldnt try and self diagnose, so go and see your GP again if you are still feeling tired and ask for Ferritin testPosted Thu, Feb. 17, 2011 at 7:39 am EST
Jessica..
I'm a 25 (soon to be 26) year old female and I have major heart palpitations, irritability. When I excercise I tend to get light-headed, at times I've fainted. Going up stairs my heart races & I have to stop and just stand there until I can move again. I can't sleep & I'm tired all the time. I get out of breath just doing cardio, which is horrible because I'm trying to lose weight & I can't because I can't even exercise! I used to be soo physically fit & then gained weight after I had my son 5 years ago. Just last year I had all these problems. I don't have high blood pressure or anything; I'm extremely healthy...I'm wondering if I have an iron def. My doc ran some blood tests on me but he didn't tell me I had anything wrong. Do you have to have low iron levels all the time or can it fluctuate from day to day? How fast can it occur and can it go away after you eat some iron in your food? Those are the questions I have..Posted Sat, Feb. 12, 2011 at 2:30 pm EST
karin
Kimberly- iron helps oxygen circulate in your blood, so anaemia makes it harder,this makes you tired when you exert yourself and will make you feel weak sometimes.Ive been taking iron for about 8 months and since 5 months have had much more energy. If you are anaemic, give it time- it takes a long time to become anaemic and it also takes a long time to recover- but you willPosted Mon, Feb. 7, 2011 at 9:59 am EST
Jo
Griggs- please get some insurance and get it checked out. It's worth it. The difference in how you will feel is amazing. I had iron def. For years and was too stubborn to head to a doctor to get it checked out. When I finally went I had a hemoglobin of 8.2 and iron level of 1. After an endoscopy and colonoscopy being negative it was determined that I cannot absorb iron. I had 10 iron IVs and after 2 months I was feeling great and all those symptoms you listed were gone. I have never felt so good. It took 3 months after my last infusion before my iron started to drop but with good watch from my hematologist he caught the drop (which was still within normal but on the low side) and with 2 more IVs just now Im well within the normal iron range. With insurance it isn't overly expensive to treat and I can tell you it's so worth feeling good again. Posted Fri, Feb. 4, 2011 at 8:10 am EST
griggs
Hi, I've had multiple symptoms and I'm quite worried. It slowly has gotten worse and worse. I was seen at the we last sept and was told I was anemic, but due to no insurance and living paycheck to paycheck I have not been able to see an actual dr to find out what is causing my anemia or how bad it actually is. Now, I also have been diagnosed with a mild form of narcolepsy, but besides the fatigue I have also lately been experiencing symptoms of extreme weakness, dizziness, loss of memory especially shorterm, chest pain, extreme shortness of breath, not to mention I never seem to be able to get my hands and feet warm. It's getting so bad that I actually feel like I'm going to have a heart attack or something. If anyone could give me some input of what I should do it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you all so much. Posted Sat, Jan. 29, 2011 at 11:56 pm EST
kimberly
Why are people weak when they have a lack of iron in the diet?Posted Tue, Jan. 18, 2011 at 3:51 pm EST
junie
I have had severe anemia since 2000.After multiple tests to eliminate internal bleeding i began to get iron infusions. The last one 2 years ago was massive and i have felt progressively bad and now they find I have enlarged lymph nodes with a mass by one on the right side behind my ear. I am angry that I was given such a large dose 3000. I am waiting to get this biopsied. Posted Tue, Jan. 18, 2011 at 8:49 am EST
Hannah
I'm 13 and have anemia. It's been 6 weeks and I have finally come back on my period, does this mean anything? Am I getting better? And can I get rid of anemia? Posted Wed, Jan. 12, 2011 at 5:38 pm EST
TRICIA
THANK YOU THIS WAS VERY HELPFUL TO ME AND I HOPE TO OTHERS.Posted Tue, Jan. 11, 2011 at 3:04 pm EST
FineWhine
FIrst: To confused, could it be celiac disease?
I have both kidney disease related anemia and iron anemia. Tried ferrous sulfate and had ferocious headaches. Took otc ferrous sequels time released, had to add ducolax, but no headaches. Kidney doc said I had to have more and I just got Venofer IV. They have been giving me Epogen for the kidney disease anemia. Still tired, short of breath and fast heart rate, but the worst is foggy head. Glad to see this might help!Posted Wed, Jan. 5, 2011 at 6:40 pm EST
karin
Dear Joanne
If you do some research there are lots of different formulations of iron tablets- I'm in the UK and mine are called Flurosene, they are especially formulated not to give you constipation and have added b vits/folic etc- they are particularly good if you are losing hair. I take 3 a day and don't have a single side effect. In 6 months my ferritin has jumped from 12 to 56 and I am no longer tired, pale or bruise easily. Do some research and find the ones that suit you best.Posted Wed, Jan. 5, 2011 at 8:12 am EST
Christina
I was diagnosed with low iron last September; Iron infusions were ordered once a week for 8 weeks; more bloodwork which was great; last week ferritin level dropped to 11 again; would be interested in hearing from anyone who has received this therapy; anyone had to have subsequent treatments? How long before iron pills take effect? IV infusions are very costly so I am wondering if taking oral iron would be just as good; has anyone out there been able to keep their iron levels ok? Or will this be a lifetime of ups and downs? This is a great site! Finally, someone to relate to and share information!Posted Thu, Dec. 30, 2010 at 3:53 pm EST
Cindy
After 3 years of taking every medication for severe asthma . symbicort,prednisone and even hospatlized for breathing problems. with a simple blood test done a month ago we found out I was severely anemic. MY feritin and everything else came up normal except for my iron levels which were at 3. Im taking 300 m of euro ferr? forgot the name and hopefully I'll feel better soon.If it wasnt for the shortness of breath, chest pain hey things wouldn be so bad but it IS! Hope everyone has a safe recovery. Posted Wed, Dec. 15, 2010 at 2:50 pm EST
joanne
i have just been prescribed iron tablets and have to take three a day and was told by my Dr that I could suffer from constipation, indigestion, and even nausea. Has anyone else experienced these? It would be a great help to me. ThanksPosted Wed, Dec. 8, 2010 at 2:03 pm EST
someone's mom
Dear 'Confused',
Almost all of your symptoms sound like what happened to my daughter. She developed hypothyroidism as an 8 year old. We stopped giving her soy products, and we found a doctor who treated her classic thyroid symptoms with thyroid meds even though her labs looked normal. She also developed vitiligo which first began as very itchy skin. If you consume soy, research it's correlation to causing thyroid disease and stop consuming it in every form!! Good luckPosted Tue, Dec. 7, 2010 at 9:00 pm EST
jessica
I chew ice constantly, my muscles ache when I'm not even doing anything, I have dark circles under my eyes. I'm constantly tired and can't sleep at night, I'm constipated and I don't feel myself at all. My dogs have worms, is it possible I do too? Or is it due to iron deficiency? I've been chewing ice and having these symptoms even before they had worms.Posted Mon, Dec. 6, 2010 at 4:32 pm EST
AngelHealing
Confused,
Your symptoms could be related to parasites. Try and see a Naturopathic doctor instead of a regular MD. Parasite testing is very unreliable. If you have recurring rectal itching it is probably parasite related. Hookworms do live off your blood, attaching within your intestines, and are not that uncommon but difficult to diagnose. They can and will make you anemic. You can get parasite cleansing kits at a health food store.Posted Mon, Nov. 29, 2010 at 6:44 pm EST
karin
Hi all
yes, anaemia causes you to bruise easily, so keep taking the iron tabs!
"alona" and "confused"-I think you should go back to your Dr and ask for a check-up. Anaemia causes lots of horrid symptoms, but they can all be treated, but you need your Dr involved to make sure you get the right medication. I'm just getting over anaemia and my once- lovely hair is still thin and lank. Ive been taking iron supplements for 5 months now- its a long long process, so if prescribed, you must persist taking them. I promise to report back in 3 months to say if my hair is improving!Posted Mon, Nov. 29, 2010 at 7:55 am EST
Robin
I am 49 and after a trip to the Critical care unit found out I am anemic. I asked them to run a test for anemia as well as some other things and they did. I ended up in the emergency room not long after that visit. I am not so bad that I needed a transfusion or anything. At first I thought I was going through the change but now after some sonograms I know for sure it is my fibroids that are causing all the trouble.
I am not getting any surgery as I have already had too many in my book.I am still waiting to talk to my GYN who of course is on vacation. The iron pills I started taking on my own started to make me very sick and constipated. I talked to my sister in law who had the same problem. Also the woman that ran the sonogram also use to take iron pills and they made her sick. My sister in law found out from her friend about a liquid iron. My sister in law was much worse then me and on the liquid for three weeks she was back to normal. she stayed on that iron until menopause. I am doing much better on the liquid iron. NO side effects what so ever. I just need to talk to my doctor about the best amount for me. So far I take it twice a day. I have read that it is absorbed right away and works much better. I mix it with a dash of cranberry juice and it doesn't taste bad. It is called Floradix with iron and herbs. I get it off Amazon. I hope that helps some of you. I am so happy not to be out here alone with this.Posted Sun, Nov. 28, 2010 at 11:40 am EST
alona
Hi, I'm 13 yrs old and have been diagnosed with iron def. for a while now. My doctor has prescribed me iron tablets but I have not been taking them for a while. I have not been hungry and have felt weak with aching muscles, and severe stomachaches, but I am also diagnosed with ADHD. My grandma says that because I haven't been taking my iron tablets my period is delayed. Can someone help me?Posted Sun, Nov. 28, 2010 at 4:43 am EST
confused
Im a 19 yr old girl who has been suffering from insomnia, exhaustion, hair loss, weight loss, freezing hands and feet, chills, fatigue, depression, constipation, bloody stools, excessive itching, chest pain, swollen lymphs, and other unbearable symptoms. I've been going to the dr repeatedly over the past 9 months asking him to check my thyroid and blood to find out whats wrong with me. He could not come up with anything other than the fact that I have high cholesterol. He then told me to stop eating all meats and egg yolks. ever since I stopped eating these things my symptoms have gotten increasingly worse. I lost 17 lbs without even trying and no matter what I eat, I can't gain weight I also used to have extremely full and beautiful hair and have a fraction of that left. I don't know for sure if its because of the lack of iron in my diet but I am so sick of diagnosing myself and being my own dr. Can someone please explain to me what the function of iron is and if me eating meat and taking an iron supplement will allow my hair and body to go back to the way it was?
Posted Sun, Nov. 28, 2010 at 12:56 am EST
mack
Is it true that a lack of iron can cause a person to bruise easily causing dark bruises that take weeks to go away?Posted Mon, Nov. 22, 2010 at 8:44 pm EST
Sherry
It's been a little over 2 months since I've been taking the iron supplements and my symptoms have improved. My hair is not breaking off like it was and is growing. It seems to be getting a little thicker. My eyes aren't constantly red as before and my energy level has improved. Hoping to continue improving, will update in a few months.Posted Tue, Nov. 9, 2010 at 7:50 pm EST
alexc355
(USA)
Very nice site!Posted Mon, Nov. 8, 2010 at 10:58 pm EST
Marylou
I had low feritin levels for sometime and my GP sent me for a colonoscopy as he said I could be bleeding from the bowel and the blood would be so minute in my stools, it could not be detected with the naked eye.
So all you folk out there with low levels, have a colonoscopy as you could be bleeding from the bowel and have OR polyps or bowel cancer.Posted Wed, Nov. 3, 2010 at 6:55 am EDT
Suzie
i had iron def anemia aug 09. My iron was .3
had 2 get iron infusions & blood transfusions. Spent
7 days is hospital. Mine was from taking nexium, or
. I still swell and take vitamin c which helps us
absorb iron.. I was having heart palpitations,
peeing all the time, rash around lips, headaches,
and tired OMG. I was working out 1 hr a day
even with this. Please let's take care of our bodies.
kindly
Posted Mon, Nov. 1, 2010 at 11:59 pm EDT
Anonymous
Hi Yolette, Ive been taking iron for 4 months now, i have more energy, dont feel dizzy when I stand up, but my hair
is still falling out at present-after 3 months my ferritin level went from 12 to 28- it needs to be over 40 to stop hair falling out and over 70 to restart hair growth- which is miserable!! but Im hanging on in there- im hoping that by around Feb I may have results to report back, you should start feeling generally better after 2 months or so, good luckPosted Mon, Oct. 18, 2010 at 8:41 am EDT
Yolette
I have been suffering from brittle toe nais, tiredness,insomia,headaches,falling hair, and i have just been diagnosed witha iron deficiency,just started taking iron tablets,how longwill it take to work.Posted Mon, Oct. 11, 2010 at 5:27 am EDT
Lilikoichar
If my doctor were to say I was just iron deficient,would that mean I'm anemic, or just low on Iron? If I were just low on Iron would I have the same as the anemic people who posted?Posted Sat, Oct. 9, 2010 at 11:26 pm EDT
Lilikoichar
Thanks soo much for everyone who posted something.It was sooo helpful and reasuring,I'm glad I figured out I was Iron Deficient about a week ago.I was at the point were I couldn't take the tiredness anymore(endurance athlete).I'm not a big doctor person,but I got up the guts to finally go,and now I'm glad I did.I would highly recommend going to the doctor as soon as you start getting the symptoms before it gets any worse,that's just time your going to have to take to work up to being healthy and active again.How long does it take for the Iron tablets to kick in?Posted Sat, Oct. 9, 2010 at 11:20 pm EDT
StEViE.x0
This site has made me so happy, and I hope to help someone out with my story.
I am a 17yr old female. I've always had problems with my health (the list is nvr ending!) but about a month ago, out of nowhere, I started having heart palpitations (PVC's, double beats, racing heart). I went to the ER, and everything was fine. I went to my doctor and had blood work done. When my labs came back he said everything was pretty much normal except my iron was a little low, but nothing to worry about. He set me up with a cardiologist. When i got home I looked at my labs and was shocked at what i found.
ferritin-6 (lab levels 13-150)
iron-12 (lab levels 15-55)
platelets- 362 (lab levels 150-349)
hemoglobin and hematocrit were on the lower side of the scale, but not out of range.
Seeing how low my ferritin was, I decided to do some research and found that I was on my way to becoming very anemic and that my health (and heart) problems were most likely caused by this. I began taking iron supplements on the recommendation of my gyno. and within only a few days my heart palps completely stopped! If I miss a day of iron sup my heart begins to race. i always seem to have iron levels on the low side and was told I may have to take iron for the rest of my life.
My hair is always falling out, I've always loved eating ice, was always tired (had to get special schooling in order to graduate), bags under eyes. Just a few of the other symptoms I had that are now gone!
So thank you to sites like this one for helping me diagnose myself! I hope that I can help someone out there too. Posted Wed, Oct. 6, 2010 at 2:56 am EDT
Rebecca
Sherry - I to had to diagnose myself. The doctors said I was fine but I felt as if I was losing my mind. I went on the internet when suddenly anemia was popping up everywhere - then the light bulb in my head switched on and I realised the symptoms I was feeling were exactly the same as when I just had my son 5 years ago! All my doctor wanted to give when I first had symptoms were antidepressants - I wasn't depressed. I was extremely tired although I couldn't sleep (random). I felt dizzy, muscle weakness, palpitations, breathlessness. The doctors made me feel I was mental for a few months but when coming on sites like this I soon realised it was my iron and I made my doctor give me iron tablets - and he did and after a few weeks I started to pick up and my bloods were going back to normal. After 3 months of iron tablets the doctor told me to come off them. I did, now 2 and half months down the line I'm starting to feel like I did when I first got symptoms. I'm off to the doctors tomorrow before it gets any worse. I do have a blood test at the end of this month to see if I'm a celiac.... I can't wait till then I need to get sorted now. So if there is anyone out there and your doctor made you feel like mine did - keep going back to them until they do something - You are not mad you may possibly be anemic! Sorry for the rant but felt I needed to share my story with you. Take care xxxPosted Sun, Oct. 3, 2010 at 5:10 pm EDT
karin
It has been 3 months of taking florisene and my serum ferritin has gone from 12 to 28. My hair is still falling out, but I am no longer dizzy when I stand up or crashingly tired all the time. I sleep a lot better also. I believe my level has to be above 40 to halt the hair loss, and over 70 to kick-start new growth,will post back again in 3 months. Has anyone of this site been taking iron for a long time and started noticing that their hair is regrowing? I would be very interested to know.Posted Wed, Sep. 29, 2010 at 7:38 am EDT
Amy
Miralax works miracles for me for constipation. I have had problems with it since I can remember. Posted Sun, Sep. 26, 2010 at 7:01 pm EDT
Heather
I was diagnosed with anemia last week after going 6 months with symptoms such as dizziness, weak muscles, insomnia, extreme fatigue, rash after being out in the sun, tingling in my hands, brain fog, lack of concentration. I thought I was losing my mind because I lost all motivation to do anything (not like me at all). I am tired all the time and yet I can't sleep. I have to keep calling in sick to my job and I'm afraid I will be fired.
The doctor has given me a new iron supplement that is not supposed to upset the stomach and cause constipation but it does. I have been taking it everyday for a week and I don't feel better. I have anemia from getting my period every 2 weeks, very heavy for 7 days. I will update when I start to feel better. Anemia is horrible. I feel like it is ruining my life.Posted Sun, Sep. 26, 2010 at 11:05 am EDT
Linda
I was feeling dizzy and went to get bloodwork. The Dr. said I was "slightly" anemic and had low sodium. I am on ferrous sulfate 3xs/day. I found that eating 4 or 5 dried apricots every day helps with constipation. They also have some iron. Posted Thu, Sep. 23, 2010 at 4:08 pm EDT
Eli
I'm 13 and have iron deficiency anemia. I was diagnosed with it in about a week ago, but I think that it has been going on for much longer and no one knew. I've been taking some medicine and I don't think I've gotten any better because I play sport and I have to run nonstop for some period of time. I'm afraid that I might get asthma. Is having iron deficiency permanent?Posted Wed, Sep. 22, 2010 at 4:37 pm EDT
karin
I'm in the U.K and I take Flurisene, which is an iron supplement with additional vits to help promote hair growth, plus it has a product in it that prevents constipation. Ive been using it for 3 months and I've not been constipated etc. Posted Mon, Sep. 6, 2010 at 8:05 am EDT
Sherry
I too have had most of the symptoms mentioned. Hair loss, tired eyes with severe redness, eyes sensitive to light, aching joints, sleeplessness, heart palpitations,tiredness, etc. I had lab work done for several diseases which all came out negative but I noticed my hemoglobib level was a little low. I bought Geritol supplements which include and iron and immediately saw improvement with the condition with my eyes. They began clearing up only after a few days and I feel much better. Shame is that I've spend money going to eye doctor and internal medicine doctor and they couldn't diagnosis me. I thank God for giving me wisdom to figure it out myself. My hemoglobin level has been low on my labs for the past few years but my doctor never seemed concerned with it.Posted Sun, Sep. 5, 2010 at 7:02 pm EDT
karin
It has been great finding this site. Marianne, your symptoms match mine, so I'm hoping that with iron tablets, like you I will feel better soon. My hair has been falling out and I get tired easily and suffer bone pains. My serum ferritin was 12 three months ago, I've just had another blood test and am awaiting results. My hair is still falling out, but my tiredness is definitely reduced, so fingers crossed.Posted Fri, Sep. 3, 2010 at 9:37 am EDT
recently diagnosed anemic
I was diagnosed 2 mos. ago as being iron-deficient anemic (due to heavy menstrual flow) after a host of symptoms made me think I was dying! constant headache, shortness of breath, heart palitations, temp-regulation problem, weak muscles & leg cramping. After bloodwork, was told to take an iron supplement daily. I still had the resulting constipation, alternating with diarrhea & black stools. But after about a week I noticed improvements in how I felt. I still get the alternating constipation/diarrhea, leg cramps and now seem to have a new symptom - eyes hurt & feel tired? Anyone else experience that one? I haven't seen much mentioned about it so wonder if it's related to the anemia or the iron supplements. I've read of vitamin C helping increase the iron absorption, maybe I'm not improving as fast as I should so think I'll try taking the supplement with orange juice.Posted Thu, Sep. 2, 2010 at 6:29 am EDT
Varinia
I was diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia, lower than 5. I had had significant hair loss and my doctor never mentioned it could be related to the deficiency. Thanks to one of this site's postings from July, I now know hair loss is one of the symptoms. Thank you.
I started on pills but they are very hard on my stomach. Any advice on how to counteract constipation? (fiber and water intake doesn't do the trick anymore).Posted Fri, Aug. 27, 2010 at 10:54 pm EDT
sandra brown
I have been put on iron pills by my doctor for iron deficiency anemia. How long does it take for the pills to take effect and how lond before I start to feel better.Posted Fri, Aug. 27, 2010 at 10:28 am EDT
sandra
Hello. Can anyone tell me how long it takes for iron pills to start working? I have been on them for about 25 days now. I do not look as pale anymore, and I somewhat feel better. But I am still achy and my eyes are bothering me. Posted Fri, Aug. 27, 2010 at 8:32 am EDT
Piper
I am 44, female, and had heavy menstrual bleeding for many years off and on except not when I was on birth control pills. I have always been really tired in the afternoons, to the point I could sleep for 2 hours, then be up a few hours and go right back to bed. At a check-up, my primary physician noticed my white blood count was a little low. I went to the hematologist who looked at the last 4 years of labs in my file and said the WBC was just cyclical leukpenia and nothing to worry about. What he did note was that my ferritin was 9 (should be 50 - 100 even though the lab report intervals say 10-200) and my t-sat was 15% (min should be 20%). He said this is pretty serious iron deficiency anemia even though my Hgb is normal, the iron is very low. So he presribed 100 mg of IV iron Venofer which is a 20 min infusion over 5 weeks. That is equal to a half a gram of iron. He also gave me oral iron supplements. I have had 3 infusions, and I still feel tired in the afternoons, but not as much. I was eating crushed ice by the gallons full, and I don't crave it at all anymore!Posted Thu, Aug. 19, 2010 at 3:41 pm EDT
CW Jones
Thank you for this very pleasant and user-friendly,informative site.
I was looking for guidance as to how to clear up my bad reaction to overdosing iron supplements{which connection I learned just now} Off and on for several weeks I've had raised, dime-sized red, itchy, hot bumps and streaks on chest, shoulders or arms.They usually disappear fast but now my upper lip is very swollen.I guess I'll drink lots of water and lay off all vitamins for now.I thought problem was due to intense heat wave we've been experiencing but then I also sensed it was an internal problem.Right! Luckily I can hide til my face clears up...or go bandit!
I am a healthy 72 year old female living on the Eastern end of LI. My doc prescribed iron supplmts for anemia months ago.Posted Sat, Aug. 7, 2010 at 9:22 am EDT
Alive again
I had blood work done about 3 months ago because my insurance would pay us $50 (an incentive to have it done) and it has literally changed my life! It highlighted all sorts of numbers-all adding up to I was low in iron. I have been taking a ferrous sulfate 65mg dose, and it has been about2 months on that. Well, my life has literally changed!! I will list the major changes: No more cravings for ice (I see that as a marker for how long I have been low- at LEAST 10 years); I have come out of a fog-things are easy to understand, clearer-like I have been in a learning fog and didn't know it; much more energy!!!!; no more restless legs when going to bed- this is huge!!They just lie there in bed-feel fine! I am under a doctors care, so I will be checked to know when my blood is back to normal. I am having my 2 teenagers checked too-they weren't covered by the insurance thing, but they are always tired, so I am having them checked.Posted Fri, Aug. 6, 2010 at 6:25 am EDT
Tanya
I'm a 44 year old woman with a ferritin level of 3, severe all over loss of hair, joint stiffness, heart palpitations with exertion, ridged nails, endurance athlete, constantly cold, sudden onset of seborrheic keratosis (skin growths on back), so I'm scheduled for a stomach and colon scope in two days to look for excessive bleeding just in case. I will keep you updated on my progress. Doctors tell me to look for blood loss not just menstrual bleeding. Make sure you get scanned especially if you have any pain. I don't have pain, so I hope things work out okay.Posted Mon, Aug. 2, 2010 at 5:45 pm EDT
Kayla
I'm 16 and have iron deficiency anemia.
I was diagnosed with it in March of this year, but I think that it has been going on for much longer and no one knew. I cannot be out in the sun for very long because i pass out. My doctor put me on birth control thinking that was why my iron was so low. I have 4 pills I take daily. I just had bloodwork a few days ago and my doctor called about it...we knew it was bad because the doctors never call they always have the people at the desk call about results for labs. It seems like every time that I have bloodwork my iron drops lower. My hemaglobin has just reached a 9.0 and when I first found out it was a 7.9. I can't remember what my iron was when I first found out I had anemia. But before my most recent bloodwork it was a 3 and now it's a 2. I've been referred out to a hematologist ocologistPosted Fri, Jul. 30, 2010 at 11:02 pm EDT
MARIANNE
To all those out here with low iron: there is a whole host of symptoms to watch out for like, hair loss, bone pain, numbness and tingling in different parts of your body, palpitations, shortness of breath, and mental confusion. I have been going like this for 15 years without a diagnosis. When I finally had a dx i was down to one in my ferritin count. I had an oncologist/hematologist look at my labs, and he stated it had low iron written all over it. The primary care doctors don't piece these symptoms together for dx because these symptoms vary from day to day, so it is hard for them and the people going through this. I did try taking iron pills but my ferritin didn't come up quick enough, so I had iv infusions. A lot of physicians are reluctant to do this because of insurance issues but I will tell you I felt like a 20-year-old, and all my symptoms gradually went away so it is worth it. I hope to help at least one person with this post.Posted Wed, Jul. 28, 2010 at 6:38 am EDT
lynrae britz
I need to find out what I can use on a daily basis in the form of herbal medication or vitamins for the iron deficiency that I have. I have alopecia (hair loss) as well as brittle nails and very pale skin. I also have fatigue, so I need to take something to boost my immune system.
Posted Tue, Jul. 27, 2010 at 9:26 am EDT
mumtaz
I am 51 year old and my hemoglobin level is 7.7 now. It was 7.4 one month ago. The doctor gave me iron tablets and now he has given me some syrup as well. I also have heart palpitations. Does it take long to increase the level?Posted Mon, Jul. 12, 2010 at 3:47 pm EDT
neelam
Do iron tablets helps in regulating the menstrual cycle?Posted Sun, Jul. 11, 2010 at 4:42 am EDT
Minitia
Hello, I have not been taking iron supplement as I should and I've noticed recently a sudden breakout of skin rash. Can this be attributed to the lack of iron in my blood? Posted Tue, Jul. 6, 2010 at 10:09 am EDT
Kathy
My hemoglobin had always been low even after regularly taking iron supplements; of which some I had to discontinue as I did not tolerate them well. Later I learned about natural therapies (Biogetica) and decided to try them. I am happy to say I have now found something that has given me excellent relief, without reacted adversely to it. I prefer them over other hematinics as they are safe and natural, giving me quick and lasting results. Posted Wed, Jun. 30, 2010 at 5:39 am EDT
Maria Russell
I am only 12 years old and I have an iron deficiency. Does that mean I will be more at risk? I am always tired and my medication has stopped working. My periods are were quite heavy. Am I at risk ?Posted Tue, Jun. 22, 2010 at 8:55 am EDT
Mavis
I am told that this can cause your bones to hurt is this true?Posted Mon, Jun. 14, 2010 at 2:52 am EDT
Michelle
I have been feeling bad for quite some time now, and finally went to see the doctor. My blood-work showed the following: My ferritin level is 4 and Iron 10.I would love to hear what treatments anyone and all have used to raise their ferritin and iron levels. What has worked for you? I have bad muscle, joint and "pins and needle" pain. This happens day and night. The pain is a lot worse in my feet and legs, but it also throughout my body. In addition, I'm very tired, weak, hungry and my eyes are sensitive to light and also tired. I would to hear from anyone with similar symptoms. Posted Tue, Jun. 1, 2010 at 10:08 pm EDT
Taneva
What are the main things i need to eat to get iron, especially because i'm pregnant and need it?Posted Tue, May. 11, 2010 at 2:09 pm EDT
Connie Reidy
I found this article to be clear and understandable. It mentioned several facts that I have not heard in the past and have been treated for iron-deficeincy for the past 4 years ultimately needing iron infusions. Thank youPosted Wed, May. 5, 2010 at 4:17 pm EDT
mooneyes
My ferritin level is below 3.Posted Tue, May. 4, 2010 at 6:43 pm EDT
Jacki C. Smith-Schaafsma
Ask your doctor about iron replacement through IV. It is done by oncologists/hematologists. It takes about 6 hours on IV, so bring a book and a friend to have lunch with. It is not that bad. One IV prick.Posted Tue, May. 4, 2010 at 12:08 am EDT
Johanna Johnson
I am well past menopause (63) and am being treated with some medications for severe chronic pain that cause constipation. My iron level has been of great concern to the doctors for the last 6 months and now they feel I need to take iron despite the constipation.
What does a person do to combat constipation when they have to add iron to the mix.
My lifestyle has been severely hampered
because of all the symptoms that accompany anemia and iron deficiency. The ongoing pain from back injury/surgeries, knee replacements and multiple other medical problems.
Useful suggestions on how to keep bowels functioning would be appreciated.Posted Sat, May. 1, 2010 at 11:11 am EDT
lorraine
Hi, I am on my way to get iron iv therapy. My body doesn't absorb iron at all I need this once a month. My iron now is 24; ferritin 5, h and h is 10/32; I get tired, anxious, can't sleep, have food cravings, restless legs, muscle cramps and slight pain. Keep at it, it took my doctors 10 years and many visits (neurologist, etc). My prayers are with all that have this problem. There isn't a simple answer. Hang in therePosted Wed, Apr. 28, 2010 at 9:34 am EDT
thank you sincerely
I am thankful to GOD for your messages. I feel for you and asked GOD to please help you.
Thank you Caryn for the advice about yellow dock for chronic fatigue and possible fibromyalgia, I too believe in herbs, Yay GOD for giving them to us.
I also appreciated that you said not try it if kidney stones were an issue and gave the recommendation of chancra piedre or "stone breaker" or vitamin c.
Also Ginny, thanks for the advice about over the counter " slow FE " for iron deficiency.No side effects..this is a wonderful thing that you are all doing to help people.
I think that maybe Doctors are not recommending herbs due to not being protected by government approval and understand this but as Caryn said. She suffered from chronic fatigue and possible fibromyalgia.
I agree with your advice..to pray first. GOD answers.He really does! Thanks everyone. My sister Kathryn has some of these symptoms and I appreciate all of your advice. Amen.Posted Tue, Apr. 27, 2010 at 9:31 am EDT
Yesenia
Hi, I'm 38 years old and I've had problems with my hemoglobin levels for the past 20 years.yesterday I went to my doctor appt. and they told me my ferritin level was 8 is this dangerous for me also I have swelling feet.Posted Sun, Apr. 25, 2010 at 12:42 am EDT
Elizabeth
I am undergoing iron treatments I am on my third one. I found out my iron was low because I was very tired and weak and dizzy. The out paient surgery gives me 10 cc a day through a iv it is a dark brown liquid and makes you smell and taste werid. I don't know if there is any side affects. But my iron was 9.0 and I have little ones to take care of. Thus far I dont feel much diffrent maybe a bit more strength but thats all. here's hoping it gets better.Posted Fri, Apr. 23, 2010 at 8:41 pm EDT
brebre 12
What can happen if you don't take care of iron deficiency anemia? Posted Fri, Apr. 16, 2010 at 9:48 am EDT
R.Grant
i consume a fine portion of iron-rich food such as bananas, calallos etc, but still I get dizzy, weak in the joints and muscles, especially after a hard days work. Could this contribute to me suffering from a lack of sufficient iron?Posted Wed, Apr. 14, 2010 at 4:11 pm EDT
R.M
For the past 3 yrs, I tend to get a bit dizzy on a daily basis.Each time i stoop down or raise out of my bed without resting for a long period of time, i always feel as if am about to faint and having to reach for security.Posted Wed, Apr. 14, 2010 at 4:04 pm EDT
tired
if ive been constantly tired and weak but have none of the other symptoms is it still possible that i have an iron deficiency?Posted Wed, Apr. 14, 2010 at 12:22 pm EDT
Trish
I have had 3 iron injections,1 a week for the past 3 weeks 4th one tomorrow. I feel worse not better. How long does it take to work? Prior to this, I was on iron tablets which did not work; my levels went lower. What happens next if injections don't work?Posted Wed, Apr. 14, 2010 at 11:08 am EDT
JAMES BOLOGNA
BEST ARTICLE I READ ON THE SUBJECT
VERY INFORMATIVE THANKSPosted Wed, Apr. 14, 2010 at 1:14 am EDT
jule
I have been taking ferrous sulphate for about 2 months now and I've noticed my menstrual cycle has become much heavier than normalPosted Wed, Apr. 14, 2010 at 12:51 am EDT
K
Wendy, I have received 3 Iron IV's. Feel great! I too, was concerned about side effects. I am given a steroid to offset side effects. Please ask questions but don't dismiss the idea based on what you read. I almost refused treatment, so glad that I moved forward with the the iv. Good luck!!!Posted Tue, Apr. 13, 2010 at 10:34 am EDT
Anonymous
I suffer from Iron Deficiency Anemis. I take 325 Ferrous sulfate but it gives me foul-smelling flatulence and stools. Can't stand myself. The effects on increasing my Hb are minimal at best.
Bill from Pittsburgh Posted Sat, Apr. 10, 2010 at 2:43 pm EDT
Robert
Caryn is absolutely right. Yellow Dock Root helps boost available iron. It has helped me tremendously within two days! I've been taking iron supplements for a month and haven't felt much better, but adding Yellow Dock gave me the energy I used to have. I am now taking iron supplements and Yellow Dock Root and feel much, much better. Posted Wed, Apr. 7, 2010 at 11:27 am EDT
Wendy
Has anyone ever had iron treatment when pure iron is given straight by iv? My mother in law is having this done and tells me she could have severe side effects. I am trying to get some info on this. any help?Posted Tue, Apr. 6, 2010 at 9:19 am EDT
mary
i just wanted to say that i am 14 and scared out of my mind about having anemia and this article has calmed me down about having anemia thanksPosted Sun, Apr. 4, 2010 at 6:18 pm EDT
caryn
Hi, everyone just want to say that God has created everything we need to live an abundant life. I too thought that I was suffering from chronic fatigue, or possibly fibromyalgia. I've been interested in herbs and have been studying alot on them. The answer is:Yellowdock. Do a search on it yourself. But I promise you, you will start to feel better w/ in a matter of days, I promise!! Now if you have problems w/ kidney stones its contradindicated. And an excellent remedy for kidney stones is Chancra piedra or "stone-breaker" or vitamin C. So pray first,and always give thanks to His wonderful gifts that he put in the earth for us. Hope this helps. God Bless. CarynPosted Wed, Mar. 31, 2010 at 5:34 pm EDT
helen
what can a person do if you have ostioporoses and need the calcium and have very low iron, that blood transfusions are recommended?Posted Sat, Mar. 13, 2010 at 1:41 pm EST
Ashley
I took ferrous sulfate tablets ate fish...now i feels nauseous, weak, & my stomach hurts..what should I do?Posted Fri, Mar. 12, 2010 at 1:25 am EST
Gail
To Angela, I am a nurse & can tell you that you need to see a DR immediately. Your condition is not normal & is extreme. You should not be bleeding like this. Please consult a DR ASAP. GailPosted Thu, Mar. 11, 2010 at 1:15 am EST
girl :/
hi , I was told I had iron def anemia only yesterday - I am worried , will I have it all my life ? I'm only 13 and suddenly I have to take iron supliment medicine and have a more high iron diet such as more liver which I don't particulary enjoy , I don't want this all my life will it go ? Posted Wed, Mar. 10, 2010 at 2:12 pm EST
Ibuprofen_Ash
The only way to get helpful, legitimate information is to go to a doctor. Please do not sit around the internet looking for answers. If you cannot see a physician immediately, call a pharmacy. They may be able to provide you with educated advice than can tide you over until you're able to make an appointment.
And always, eat well. Eat a good, healthful diet with a variety of nutritious foods. Poor nutrition is the primary cause and contributor to most if not all disorders of the body.Posted Wed, Mar. 10, 2010 at 1:05 am EST
yas
it is very good.Posted Sun, Mar. 7, 2010 at 11:25 pm EST
DIANE SAMPLES
MY DAUGHTER HAS A NORMAL HCT OF 12.9 AND HGB OR 40 BUT HER FERRATIN LEVEL IS 13. WHERE WOULD I GO TO FIND OUT WHAT COULD BE THE CAUSE OF THIS. sHE CANNOT GET INTO HER DOCTOR THIS WEEK SO I AM WORRIEDPosted Mon, Mar. 1, 2010 at 5:12 pm EST
Lisa H
Susan B--I can relate to your problems. I have had the same thing. I was just diagnosed with a fibroid tumor in my uterus and go for surgery in 2 days. This has been the cause of so much bleeding. They are going to do what is called ablation which is supposed to either stop bleeding or eliminate it to hardly anything without having a hysterectomy. Hope this helps.Posted Sat, Feb. 27, 2010 at 1:52 pm EST
Aysha
when do you go for blood transplanet?Posted Thu, Feb. 25, 2010 at 10:22 am EST
Angela
I have hemmoriods and a fissure tear that act up three to four days before I would start my period, I think due to inflammation in my body, and I lose so much blood that it sounds like I'm urinating from my rectum. This can happen up to six times a day for about 3 to 4 days. I turn ghostly white instantly, gums and under my lower lids are white, lips, etc.. my heart beats fast, its hard to breath, cant think or talk straight, get pressure on my head and sooooo thristy. Does anyone else have it this bad?Posted Mon, Feb. 22, 2010 at 3:49 pm EST
TERRY CEJKA
I WAS ONCE DIAGNOSED WITH IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA, EARLY 40'S. I AM 58 NOW. I HAVE BEEN ON LEXAPRO FOR ABOUT 3 YEARS. I WAS DIAGNOSED WITH GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER AND SO THE LEXAPRO. I DID NOT TAKE ANY IRON FOR A LONG TIME. NOW, I WANT OFF OF THE LEXAPRO. I HAVE SUCH FATIGUE, SUCH HEART PALPITATIONS AND LIGHTHEADEDNESS WHEN I DON'T TAKE THEM. I GET SO WINDED. COULD THE IRON DEFICIENCY WHICH I QUIT TREATING. I HAVE HAD THE HEART THING SINCE THE IRON DEFICIENCY WAS DIAGNOSED AND WAS ONCE TOLD I HAD A HEART MURMUR. AFTER READING YOUR ARTICLE, I TOOK AN IRON TABLET TODAY. HOW LONG WOULD IT TAKE BEFORE I MIGHT SEE A DIFFERENCE?Posted Mon, Feb. 22, 2010 at 3:18 pm EST
Rita Smith
Hi i have recently started to take ferrous sulphate tablet and my stool has become instantly black and i am concerned aboutt his pleae let me know if to stop or continuePosted Mon, Feb. 22, 2010 at 6:32 am EST
Ginny
I have been iron deficient for 10 years. The doctor misdiagnosed my problem, said it was my thyroid, I almost died. Had to be hospitalized and was given 3 pints of blood. The prescription iron medicine they prescribed was horrible.
I found out from a nurse working in a pharmacy that an over the counter iron pill works best - it's called "Slow Fe," and no side affects. Hope this helps anyone with anemia - your doctor won't tell you about an over the counter remedy. Posted Mon, Feb. 15, 2010 at 2:38 am EST
Sue B
Hello, Im quite concern because I have heavy menstrual cycle, with lots of membrane! It is out of control! Definitely, this was some of the cause for iron deficiency, but Im worried! How can I suppress this night-mare? Hellllllllllp!Posted Sun, Feb. 14, 2010 at 10:42 am EST
alien
wtf? BOROCCOLI!!! :oPosted Mon, Feb. 8, 2010 at 4:32 am EST
DIANE
IM DEALING WITH IRON DEF. ANEMIA.
MY DR CALLED ME FRIDAY WITH LAB RESULTS OF FERRITIN OF 5. WHAT'S A NORMAL LEVEL. MY HEMOGLOBIN IS 7. I WAS GIVEN AN IRON INFUSION.
MY QUESTION IS I SUFFER FROM PICA? I CRAVE PREIUM CRACKERS AND THEY HAVE TO BE DARK LIKE REALLY BROWN. SOMETIOMES I'LL BY 6-10 BOXES AT ONE TIME. AND I HAVE CRAVINGS FOR GRAPE TOMATOES.. IS THER ANY NUTRITIONAL VALUE TO THESE FOODS AND HOW CAN I GET IT UNDER CONTROL.Posted Sun, Jan. 31, 2010 at 12:01 am EST
Earthangel
Hi Dee, my condition is similar to yours, ie. levels close to needing a blood transfusion. I understand it takes around 1 month for the haemoglobin level to increase by 1.Posted Sat, Jan. 23, 2010 at 9:57 am EST
Priscilla
Hi, I recently did alot of research on hairloss and thyroid disease and possible thyroid cancer. I have severe hairloss problems, fatigueness, stress, headaches, stiff neck 24/7, blurry vision and a very irrtated itchy skin with a permenant rash. Could a regular intake of iron supplements lower the risk of cancer or thyroid disease and will this help with all my symptoms? I also have an abnormal menstrual cycle and heavy stomache pain in the morning. Lately I've been experiencing sharp pains through my breasts aswell and it feels like its heavy and dragging on the floor in the morning when i get up. Please help me!Posted Fri, Jan. 22, 2010 at 3:51 pm EST
patrica
i would like to know i am anemic and i was perscribe with the black color iron pills can i find them in a walgreems or any drug store and whats the name of the pills Posted Sat, Jan. 9, 2010 at 2:19 am EST
E G ROBERT
Due to 15 years of nutritional supplement (small bowel partial obstruction) developed low iron stores. What replacement recommended.Posted Thu, Jan. 7, 2010 at 10:39 pm EST
Dee
I went to the ER last week due to heart palpitations and shortness of breath, after taking a blood test they said I was severely anemic that by levels were close to needing a blood transfusion, since I have been taking my prescribed iron pills, but the palpitations are not completely gone, when can I expect some relief?
Posted Tue, Jan. 5, 2010 at 11:09 pm EST
elaine andreson
what about an iv infusion of iron?Posted Mon, Jan. 4, 2010 at 3:01 pm EST
|
|
| The Doctor Will See You Now | |
LEGAL RESTRICTIONS AND TERMS OF USE OF THIS SITE. USE OF THIS SITE IS YOUR AGREEMENT TO THESE TERMS. Copyright 2013 interMDnet Corporation. All rights reserved. About Us | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer | System Requirements |