Guest guest Posted September 17, 2004 Report Share Posted September 17, 2004 > pottersgotthesnitch <bolter6@...> wrote: > Does anyone know if having low iron level > matters when it comes to > ctoma surgery? It's best to have ANY type of " elective " surgery when in the best of health, including hemoglobin and hematocrit levels (iron). A health care provider may delay surgery or in some cases, prescribe a drug called Procrit (erythropoetin) that will cause the body to make more red blood cells. Increased RBC will show as higher H & H levels. -- Diane Brunet http://www.sassysuds.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 29, 2004 Report Share Posted November 29, 2004 My iron level has been down for a long time now. I can¹t get my ferritin level up past 6 and it has been running about 2. It came up from 2 to 6 with taking 3-4 iron. I also am going to see a bone endocrinologist tomorrow due to a major decrease in my bone Density since 2001. I had my mgb 9/2000. I would like to know at what point do you get the iv iron infusions. Glenda MGB Dr R. 2000 > > Hi Felice, > I am hopeful you will be able to do it by your intake of food and do not > have to have the revision if possible. I agree it is a tool and I know we > both want to continue to use it. I have a long way to go to loose the > weight.... I'm 8 months out and still have about 90 pounds to go. > I am interested in what type and how much protein and iron rich foods you > are eating. I too have some low hemoglobin levels and am trying to keep them > up. My doctor hopes I do not have to have a infusion of iron. How many > victims do you take and how often? I am interested in the responses you get > online. Would you please share with me you routines and any words of advice > by other mgbers who can relate to our problems. > > Thank you. Beth > Revision Update > > > > Hi and Happy Thanksgiving to my entire MGB Family! > > You have all been so supportive and helpful, I am so thankful. If you have > been following my story, I got ill last month and was hospitalized on > November 1st for 3 days. > > The symptoms: Severe foot, ankle and leg swelling, severe bone-chilling > cold (in South Florida!), severe fatigue (I'm a full time college student > and haven't been to class since 11/1 and am having to finish the semester at > home), and no appetite. > > The tests: Sonograms of my legs, heart, entire digestive system. CT scans. > Lots of blood work, and urine flow tests. > > The diagnosis: Extremely low protein, iron, potassium and folic acid (among > other low levels of stuff) due to mal-absorption. In other words, I'm not > absorbing enough nutrition from my intake of food. > > The in-hospital treatment: Infusions of potassium, folic acid, iron, and > lasix (to get ride of the swelling). Discussions with a nutritionist (at my > request) to learn as much as I could about protein, iron, potassium, folic > acid and other vitamin intake. > > The cure: After forwarding all my doctor and hospital information to Dr. > Rutledge, we decided that a partial or full revision was in order. I was > scheduled to leave for Michigan this coming Tuesday 11/30, to have my > revision on Friday 12/3. I've been eating nothing but protein, high iron > foods, etc. I've really been diligent about my food and vitamin intake. I > was/am hoping that I can help myself as much as possible. For the last 5 > days, the swelling has gone from my legs and my energy is returning, very > slowly, but surely. I spoke to Dr. Rutledge the other day and asked about > postponing/canceling the surgery, if I can keep my levels up nutrition. He > agreed. > > So, here I am. I cancelled the surgery, for now!! I can always have it > later if need be. I am hoping and working really hard at being my own best > health care advocate and doing everything I can to make a revision not > necessary. But, ultimately it's not up to be, it's up to my body. Can I > get enough protein in??? I hope so. And if any of you experienced mgb'ers > have any suggestions, I'm all ears. I need all the help I can get. > > This is nothing that Dr. Rutledge did. If there had been a sign on my > intestines when he did my original surgery that said, > --->>> CUT HERE <<<---, well then, we'd all have the perfect mgb. But, > alas, the sign wasn't there. I am still so grateful to Dr. Rutledge and the > mgb for giving me my life back. No one ever said it would be easy and that > we wouldn't have to do some of the work. The mgb is... a tool. A really > good tool, but still a tool, we must learn to operate it with skill and > practice. > > Thank for all for being here for me. You truly are the only ones who > understand what I'm going through. Your prayers for me have worked, keep > them up. As I will for you!! > > Love, > Felice (Fort Lauderdale) > May 20, 2003 > 247/118 5'4 " > Dr. Rutledge Statesville, NC. > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 30, 2004 Report Share Posted November 30, 2004 You are there. I got my infusion at 6 and after one infusion, 4 weeks later, it is 100...DO IT!!! Re: low iron My iron level has been down for a long time now. I can¹t get my ferritin level up past 6 and it has been running about 2. It came up from 2 to 6 with taking 3-4 iron. I also am going to see a bone endocrinologist tomorrow due to a major decrease in my bone Density since 2001. I had my mgb 9/2000. I would like to know at what point do you get the iv iron infusions. Glenda MGB Dr R. 2000 > > Hi Felice, > I am hopeful you will be able to do it by your intake of food and do not > have to have the revision if possible. I agree it is a tool and I know we > both want to continue to use it. I have a long way to go to loose the > weight.... I'm 8 months out and still have about 90 pounds to go. > I am interested in what type and how much protein and iron rich foods you > are eating. I too have some low hemoglobin levels and am trying to keep them > up. My doctor hopes I do not have to have a infusion of iron. How many > victims do you take and how often? I am interested in the responses you get > online. Would you please share with me you routines and any words of advice > by other mgbers who can relate to our problems. > > Thank you. Beth > Revision Update > > > > Hi and Happy Thanksgiving to my entire MGB Family! > > You have all been so supportive and helpful, I am so thankful. If you have > been following my story, I got ill last month and was hospitalized on > November 1st for 3 days. > > The symptoms: Severe foot, ankle and leg swelling, severe bone-chilling > cold (in South Florida!), severe fatigue (I'm a full time college student > and haven't been to class since 11/1 and am having to finish the semester at > home), and no appetite. > > The tests: Sonograms of my legs, heart, entire digestive system. CT scans. > Lots of blood work, and urine flow tests. > > The diagnosis: Extremely low protein, iron, potassium and folic acid (among > other low levels of stuff) due to mal-absorption. In other words, I'm not > absorbing enough nutrition from my intake of food. > > The in-hospital treatment: Infusions of potassium, folic acid, iron, and > lasix (to get ride of the swelling). Discussions with a nutritionist (at my > request) to learn as much as I could about protein, iron, potassium, folic > acid and other vitamin intake. > > The cure: After forwarding all my doctor and hospital information to Dr. > Rutledge, we decided that a partial or full revision was in order. I was > scheduled to leave for Michigan this coming Tuesday 11/30, to have my > revision on Friday 12/3. I've been eating nothing but protein, high iron > foods, etc. I've really been diligent about my food and vitamin intake. I > was/am hoping that I can help myself as much as possible. For the last 5 > days, the swelling has gone from my legs and my energy is returning, very > slowly, but surely. I spoke to Dr. Rutledge the other day and asked about > postponing/canceling the surgery, if I can keep my levels up nutrition. He > agreed. > > So, here I am. I cancelled the surgery, for now!! I can always have it > later if need be. I am hoping and working really hard at being my own best > health care advocate and doing everything I can to make a revision not > necessary. But, ultimately it's not up to be, it's up to my body. Can I > get enough protein in??? I hope so. And if any of you experienced mgb'ers > have any suggestions, I'm all ears. I need all the help I can get. > > This is nothing that Dr. Rutledge did. If there had been a sign on my > intestines when he did my original surgery that said, > --->>> CUT HERE <<<---, well then, we'd all have the perfect mgb. But, > alas, the sign wasn't there. I am still so grateful to Dr. Rutledge and the > mgb for giving me my life back. No one ever said it would be easy and that > we wouldn't have to do some of the work. The mgb is... a tool. A really > good tool, but still a tool, we must learn to operate it with skill and > practice. > > Thank for all for being here for me. You truly are the only ones who > understand what I'm going through. Your prayers for me have worked, keep > them up. As I will for you!! > > Love, > Felice (Fort Lauderdale) > May 20, 2003 > 247/118 5'4 " > Dr. Rutledge Statesville, NC. > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 1, 2004 Report Share Posted December 1, 2004 Hi Glenda, My name is Debbie and I am the nurse for CLOS and I was reading your email message and I would like for you to call me. Thanks, Debbie Pennell,RN CLOS Cell 704-682-2145 Glenda Eitel wrote: >My iron level has been down for a long time now. I can¹t get my ferritin >level up past 6 and it has been running about 2. >It came up from 2 to 6 with taking 3-4 iron. I also am going to see a bone >endocrinologist tomorrow due to a major decrease in my bone >Density since 2001. I had my mgb 9/2000. I would like to know at what >point do you get the iv iron infusions. >Glenda >MGB >Dr R. >2000 > > > > > >>Hi Felice, >> I am hopeful you will be able to do it by your intake of food and do not >>have to have the revision if possible. I agree it is a tool and I know we >>both want to continue to use it. I have a long way to go to loose the >>weight.... I'm 8 months out and still have about 90 pounds to go. >> I am interested in what type and how much protein and iron rich foods you >>are eating. I too have some low hemoglobin levels and am trying to keep them >>up. My doctor hopes I do not have to have a infusion of iron. How many >>victims do you take and how often? I am interested in the responses you get >>online. Would you please share with me you routines and any words of advice >>by other mgbers who can relate to our problems. >> >> Thank you. Beth >> Revision Update >> >> >> >> Hi and Happy Thanksgiving to my entire MGB Family! >> >> You have all been so supportive and helpful, I am so thankful. If you have >> been following my story, I got ill last month and was hospitalized on >> November 1st for 3 days. >> >> The symptoms: Severe foot, ankle and leg swelling, severe bone-chilling >> cold (in South Florida!), severe fatigue (I'm a full time college student >> and haven't been to class since 11/1 and am having to finish the semester at >> home), and no appetite. >> >> The tests: Sonograms of my legs, heart, entire digestive system. CT scans. >> Lots of blood work, and urine flow tests. >> >> The diagnosis: Extremely low protein, iron, potassium and folic acid (among >> other low levels of stuff) due to mal-absorption. In other words, I'm not >> absorbing enough nutrition from my intake of food. >> >> The in-hospital treatment: Infusions of potassium, folic acid, iron, and >> lasix (to get ride of the swelling). Discussions with a nutritionist (at my >> request) to learn as much as I could about protein, iron, potassium, folic >> acid and other vitamin intake. >> >> The cure: After forwarding all my doctor and hospital information to Dr. >> Rutledge, we decided that a partial or full revision was in order. I was >> scheduled to leave for Michigan this coming Tuesday 11/30, to have my >> revision on Friday 12/3. I've been eating nothing but protein, high iron >> foods, etc. I've really been diligent about my food and vitamin intake. I >> was/am hoping that I can help myself as much as possible. For the last 5 >> days, the swelling has gone from my legs and my energy is returning, very >> slowly, but surely. I spoke to Dr. Rutledge the other day and asked about >> postponing/canceling the surgery, if I can keep my levels up nutrition. He >> agreed. >> >> So, here I am. I cancelled the surgery, for now!! I can always have it >> later if need be. I am hoping and working really hard at being my own best >> health care advocate and doing everything I can to make a revision not >> necessary. But, ultimately it's not up to be, it's up to my body. Can I >> get enough protein in??? I hope so. And if any of you experienced mgb'ers >> have any suggestions, I'm all ears. I need all the help I can get. >> >> This is nothing that Dr. Rutledge did. If there had been a sign on my >> intestines when he did my original surgery that said, >> --->>> CUT HERE <<<---, well then, we'd all have the perfect mgb. But, >> alas, the sign wasn't there. I am still so grateful to Dr. Rutledge and the >> mgb for giving me my life back. No one ever said it would be easy and that >> we wouldn't have to do some of the work. The mgb is... a tool. A really >> good tool, but still a tool, we must learn to operate it with skill and >> practice. >> >> Thank for all for being here for me. You truly are the only ones who >> understand what I'm going through. Your prayers for me have worked, keep >> them up. As I will for you!! >> >> Love, >> Felice (Fort Lauderdale) >> May 20, 2003 >> 247/118 5'4 " >> Dr. Rutledge Statesville, NC. >> >> >> >> >> >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 23, 2005 Report Share Posted January 23, 2005 I became severely anemic as a vegetarian. I am eating more and more meat and feeling better. I notice that I can eat meat as a snack instead of sweets like I used to, and it helps me alot. I am no longer anemic since eating red meat again. YAY!!! - T --- wrote: From: " \) " <firesprite68@...> Subject: Re: diet plan >>Have you ever read that blood type 0's are more prone to be anemic. I have always had this tendency and so have my blood type 0 daughters? **Very interesting - I too have always been 'on the verge' between o.k. and anaemic. ) __________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 20, 2008 Report Share Posted August 20, 2008 I have low iron. I have taken prescription iron for three months, I've been to the gynocologist and eat foods high in iron. I must now take the next step of starting iron infusions. My hemoglobin is 9.7 (whatever that means) I am looking for advice. What are the do's and don'ts of iron infusions? What should I know about iron infusions? Any suggestions in finding a hematologist who understands weight loss patients (and does it matter)? Thanks in advance for all your help. Felice (aka " The 3 time loser " ) Fort Lauderdale, Florida Dr. R. 6' mgb May 2003. 247 lbs Dr. R. 6' mgb reversal January 2005. weight 100 lbs Dr. R. 3' mgb September 2006. weight 211 lbs Present weight: 156 lbs Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 21, 2008 Report Share Posted August 21, 2008 Felice: Finding someone who understands matters. My daughter (MGB 8/4/2000) has been having iron infusions every 18 months for the last 4.5 years. I started them last month. I have had three and I Will have my fourth and a blood test today to determine how many more, if any, I will need. I know I will need more. My hemoglobin was 9.5 and my iron saturation was 3. I went to a Dr. who told me to take over the counter iron and eat iron rich foods. She did not suggest infusions and I felt dreadful. My legs and feet swell, my restless leg syndrome was 24/7 and the Mirapex was not touching it. I was miserable. I went back to the office after my last appointment and Dr. P told me to go to someone else. I did. And he was very reassuring. He told me that my problem was chronic anemia and that I would need infusions every year to 18 months. He said that when hemoglobin gets to 11 he likes to see the patients at that point. He told me that we don't absorb like normal people and for some of us, upping the iron we take in is not enough. Some of us need infusions. When I went for the infusion, they gave me iv benadryl. They said that was in case I had a reaction to it. They gave me a small amount then I waited and read a magazine and when I had no reaction, they gave me the rest of the infusion. The next two times I didn't need anything but the iron. I felt very little different after the first one. After the second one I noticed a marked difference in how I felt. I slept about five hours where before it was 2-3 a night. The third made a huge difference. I did not even realize that much of what I was experiencing the last 6 months was from the low iron. I no longer have restless legs during the day. I do still have them beginning about 4 p.m. I am hopeful that as my level rises, that it will improve. My sleeping has improved. I just feel better. I have had an extreme amount of energy since about three months after my MGB but had really slowed down. Since the infusions I don't feel like I have to push myself. I feel like I have the energy. The swelling in my feet and legs had subsided but since it's been three weeks since my last infusion, my feet and legs are huge again. The Dr. said that as my levels go up, the swelling will go down. The first hematologist told me that I probably had congestive heart failure and that was causing the swelling. She sent me to a cardiologist. Wrong.not congestive heart failure, just need infusions. If doctors suggest that you take in more iron, they don't understand our lack of absorption. Find someone who does. If it hadn't been for Dr. Peraglie, I would have continued to think that I could raise my levels through iron rich foods and over the counter supplements. And my levels were extremely low and might have gone lower. Make sure you see your primary for your other issues. For instance, many obese people have low levels of vitamin D and for some (including me) that continues after weight loss. I am not supplementing with heavy doses of D. I will be able to taper off very soon. Be sure to get ALL your labs drawn, not just H and H. The hematologist will most likely treat only your iron (anemia) issues. Most will not treat you for the other things, like low D. My new Dr. had an immediate understanding of the problem, patted me saying he was going to make me feel much better, and that he understood what my problem was and how to fix it. If you have to travel to find someone do it. Felice, since you're in Florida, if you can't find anyone over there, come here. It would be once a week for a while and then not again for a year or 18 months. But this Dr. has a great understanding of our issues. The rest of our issues need to be addressed by our primary doctors. If you go to someone there, don't just let them determine your treatment. You will need to advocate for yourself. If the gynecologist has told you to go for iron infusions, he or she understands our issues. Good for you. You have someone who can help with the issues other than low iron should you have any. OK, off my soap box. As an 8 year MGB veteran, I think that I'm ahead of the curve with many of our patients. And I think that I should share that information. That said, I feel that I should also share and be honest and say that I did not do as I was told to do by Dr. Rutledge. After about 5 years of always feeling good, I began to slack off on vitamins and supplements. Big mistake! I preach to our patients about the importance of doing it and wasn't doing it myself. Some of us are more thick headed than others and I lead the thick headed pack. I know that's not the case with you. Just a warning to others who may be reading this that slacking off on what Dr. R told us we need the rest of our lives will bite you in the butt some day. And I have a major chunk out of mine! Good luck Felice. You will feel much better very soon. Flo _____ From: [mailto: ] On Behalf Of Felice Shekar Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2008 2:55 PM Subject: Re: Low Iron I have low iron. I have taken prescription iron for three months, I've been to the gynocologist and eat foods high in iron. I must now take the next step of starting iron infusions. My hemoglobin is 9.7 (whatever that means) I am looking for advice. What are the do's and don'ts of iron infusions? What should I know about iron infusions? Any suggestions in finding a hematologist who understands weight loss patients (and does it matter)? Thanks in advance for all your help. Felice (aka " The 3 time loser " ) Fort Lauderdale, Florida Dr. R. 6' mgb May 2003. 247 lbs Dr. R. 6' mgb reversal January 2005. weight 100 lbs Dr. R. 3' mgb September 2006. weight 211 lbs Present weight: 156 lbs Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 21, 2008 Report Share Posted August 21, 2008 Hi all, I had my MGB in March of 2001 and have continually taken my vitamins and supplements (including iron). I have a physical yearly and have NEVER had a problem with low iron...soooo...don't slack up on Dr. R's instruction...this is a life long trip!! Marie P/Florida > From: flo <flo@...> > Subject: RE: Low Iron > > Date: Thursday, August 21, 2008, 6:45 AM > Felice: Finding someone who understands matters. My > daughter (MGB > 8/4/2000) has been having iron infusions every 18 months > for the last 4.5 > years. I started them last month. I have had three and I > > Will have my fourth and a blood test today to determine how > many more, if > any, I will need. I know I will need more. My hemoglobin > was 9.5 and my > iron saturation was 3. I went to a Dr. who told me to take > over the counter > iron and eat iron rich foods. She did not suggest > infusions and I felt > dreadful. My legs and feet swell, my restless leg syndrome > was 24/7 and the > Mirapex was not touching it. I was miserable. I went back > to the office > after my last appointment and Dr. P told me to go to > someone else. I did. > And he was very reassuring. He told me that my problem was > chronic anemia > and that I would need infusions every year to 18 months. > He said that when > hemoglobin gets to 11 he likes to see the patients at that > point. He told me > that we don't absorb like normal people and for some of > us, upping the iron > we take in is not enough. Some of us need infusions. > > > > When I went for the infusion, they gave me iv benadryl. > They said that was > in case I had a reaction to it. They gave me a small > amount then I waited > and read a magazine and when I had no reaction, they gave > me the rest of the > infusion. The next two times I didn't need anything but > the iron. I felt > very little different after the first one. After the > second one I noticed a > marked difference in how I felt. I slept about five hours > where before it > was 2-3 a night. The third made a huge difference. I did > not even realize > that much of what I was experiencing the last 6 months was > from the low > iron. > > > > I no longer have restless legs during the day. I do still > have them > beginning about 4 p.m. I am hopeful that as my level > rises, that it will > improve. My sleeping has improved. I just feel better. I > have had an > extreme amount of energy since about three months after my > MGB but had > really slowed down. Since the infusions I don't feel > like I have to push > myself. I feel like I have the energy. The swelling in my > feet and legs had > subsided but since it's been three weeks since my last > infusion, my feet and > legs are huge again. The Dr. said that as my levels go up, > the swelling will > go down. The first hematologist told me that I probably > had congestive > heart failure and that was causing the swelling. She sent > me to a > cardiologist. Wrong.not congestive heart failure, just > need infusions. > > > > If doctors suggest that you take in more iron, they > don't understand our > lack of absorption. Find someone who does. If it > hadn't been for Dr. > Peraglie, I would have continued to think that I could > raise my levels > through iron rich foods and over the counter supplements. > And my levels were > extremely low and might have gone lower. Make sure you see > your primary for > your other issues. For instance, many obese people have low > levels of > vitamin D and for some (including me) that continues after > weight loss. I > am not supplementing with heavy doses of D. I will be able > to taper off very > soon. Be sure to get ALL your labs drawn, not just H and > H. The > hematologist will most likely treat only your iron (anemia) > issues. Most > will not treat you for the other things, like low D. My > new Dr. had an > immediate understanding of the problem, patted me saying he > was going to > make me feel much better, and that he understood what my > problem was and how > to fix it. If you have to travel to find someone do it. > > > > Felice, since you're in Florida, if you can't find > anyone over there, come > here. It would be once a week for a while and then not > again for a year or > 18 months. But this Dr. has a great understanding of our > issues. The rest > of our issues need to be addressed by our primary doctors. > If you go to > someone there, don't just let them determine your > treatment. You will need > to advocate for yourself. If the gynecologist has told you > to go for iron > infusions, he or she understands our issues. Good for you. > You have someone > who can help with the issues other than low iron should you > have any. > > > > OK, off my soap box. As an 8 year MGB veteran, I think that > I'm ahead of the > curve with many of our patients. And I think that I should > share that > information. That said, I feel that I should also share > and be honest and > say that I did not do as I was told to do by Dr. Rutledge. > After about 5 > years of always feeling good, I began to slack off on > vitamins and > supplements. Big mistake! I preach to our patients about > the importance of > doing it and wasn't doing it myself. Some of us are > more thick headed than > others and I lead the thick headed pack. I know that's > not the case with > you. Just a warning to others who may be reading this that > slacking off on > what Dr. R told us we need the rest of our lives will bite > you in the butt > some day. And I have a major chunk out of mine! > > > > Good luck Felice. You will feel much better very soon. > > > > Flo > > > > _____ > > From: > [mailto: ] On > Behalf Of Felice Shekar > Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2008 2:55 PM > > Subject: Re: Low Iron > > > > I have low iron. I have taken prescription iron for three > months, I've been > to the gynocologist and eat foods high in iron. I must now > take the next > step of starting iron infusions. My hemoglobin is 9.7 > (whatever that means) > I am looking for advice. What are the do's and > don'ts of iron infusions? > What should I know about iron infusions? Any suggestions in > finding a > hematologist who understands weight loss patients (and does > it matter)? > Thanks in advance for all your help. > Felice (aka " The 3 time loser " ) > Fort Lauderdale, Florida > Dr. R. 6' mgb May 2003. 247 lbs > Dr. R. 6' mgb reversal January 2005. weight 100 lbs > Dr. R. 3' mgb September 2006. weight 211 lbs > Present weight: 156 lbs > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 21, 2008 Report Share Posted August 21, 2008 Thanks, Flo, for all your information and insight. An important reminder to follow our surgeons' instructions. --Connie in Omaha Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 21, 2008 Report Share Posted August 21, 2008 Flo, Reading your post was like writing my own. I'm 4.5 years out, and having exactly the same thing. Got my b/t results back last week and I'm headed back for more infusions. It's been a while since I've had them, and clearly I waited too long again! (I have no doubt in my mind that I am THE thick headed pack leader) Anyway.. hemoglobin 9.1. Ferratin level is a whopping <1. I kinda take that number as a zero.. legs and feet swelling. And man is it kickin' my butt in the energy department! And my mouth is on fire.. which is what sent me to get my blood tested, cause I dang sure never do it just for the heck of it ( like I should) And then I started noticing that I felt like I'm losing weight again, but I've been in the process of moving, so my scale has been packed. I unpacked it yesterday, and dangit! Lost another 4 pounds...so it's back to the peanut butter for a while. My vitamin D is low also.. so tell me Flo.. what kind of treatment did your doc give you for the Vitamin D issue? So post ops.. keep in mind.. if you start to notice foods (or liquids.. or toothpaste) burning your mouth, that normally would not.. go get your blood tested.. particularly your ferratin level. It's always a sure sign for me that I've waited too long.. Suzanne in CA 2/11/04 236/118 From: flo <flo@...> Subject: RE: Low Iron Date: Thursday, August 21, 2008, 3:45 AM Felice: Finding someone who understands matters. My daughter (MGB 8/4/2000) has been having iron infusions every 18 months for the last 4.5 years. I started them last month. I have had three and I Will have my fourth and a blood test today to determine how many more, if any, I will need. I know I will need more. My hemoglobin was 9.5 and my iron saturation was 3. I went to a Dr. who told me to take over the counter iron and eat iron rich foods. She did not suggest infusions and I felt dreadful. My legs and feet swell, my restless leg syndrome was 24/7 and the Mirapex was not touching it. I was miserable. I went back to the office after my last appointment and Dr. P told me to go to someone else. I did. And he was very reassuring. He told me that my problem was chronic anemia and that I would need infusions every year to 18 months. He said that when hemoglobin gets to 11 he likes to see the patients at that point. He told me that we don't absorb like normal people and for some of us, upping the iron we take in is not enough. Some of us need infusions. When I went for the infusion, they gave me iv benadryl. They said that was in case I had a reaction to it. They gave me a small amount then I waited and read a magazine and when I had no reaction, they gave me the rest of the infusion. The next two times I didn't need anything but the iron. I felt very little different after the first one. After the second one I noticed a marked difference in how I felt. I slept about five hours where before it was 2-3 a night. The third made a huge difference. I did not even realize that much of what I was experiencing the last 6 months was from the low iron. I no longer have restless legs during the day. I do still have them beginning about 4 p.m. I am hopeful that as my level rises, that it will improve. My sleeping has improved. I just feel better. I have had an extreme amount of energy since about three months after my MGB but had really slowed down. Since the infusions I don't feel like I have to push myself. I feel like I have the energy. The swelling in my feet and legs had subsided but since it's been three weeks since my last infusion, my feet and legs are huge again. The Dr. said that as my levels go up, the swelling will go down. The first hematologist told me that I probably had congestive heart failure and that was causing the swelling. She sent me to a cardiologist. Wrong.not congestive heart failure, just need infusions. If doctors suggest that you take in more iron, they don't understand our lack of absorption. Find someone who does. If it hadn't been for Dr. Peraglie, I would have continued to think that I could raise my levels through iron rich foods and over the counter supplements. And my levels were extremely low and might have gone lower. Make sure you see your primary for your other issues. For instance, many obese people have low levels of vitamin D and for some (including me) that continues after weight loss. I am not supplementing with heavy doses of D. I will be able to taper off very soon. Be sure to get ALL your labs drawn, not just H and H. The hematologist will most likely treat only your iron (anemia) issues. Most will not treat you for the other things, like low D. My new Dr. had an immediate understanding of the problem, patted me saying he was going to make me feel much better, and that he understood what my problem was and how to fix it. If you have to travel to find someone do it. Felice, since you're in Florida, if you can't find anyone over there, come here. It would be once a week for a while and then not again for a year or 18 months. But this Dr. has a great understanding of our issues. The rest of our issues need to be addressed by our primary doctors. If you go to someone there, don't just let them determine your treatment. You will need to advocate for yourself. If the gynecologist has told you to go for iron infusions, he or she understands our issues. Good for you. You have someone who can help with the issues other than low iron should you have any. OK, off my soap box. As an 8 year MGB veteran, I think that I'm ahead of the curve with many of our patients. And I think that I should share that information. That said, I feel that I should also share and be honest and say that I did not do as I was told to do by Dr. Rutledge. After about 5 years of always feeling good, I began to slack off on vitamins and supplements. Big mistake! I preach to our patients about the importance of doing it and wasn't doing it myself. Some of us are more thick headed than others and I lead the thick headed pack. I know that's not the case with you. Just a warning to others who may be reading this that slacking off on what Dr. R told us we need the rest of our lives will bite you in the butt some day. And I have a major chunk out of mine! Good luck Felice. You will feel much better very soon. Flo _____ From: @gro ups.com [mailto:@gro ups.com] On Behalf Of Felice Shekar Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2008 2:55 PM @gro ups.com Subject: Re: Low Iron I have low iron. I have taken prescription iron for three months, I've been to the gynocologist and eat foods high in iron. I must now take the next step of starting iron infusions. My hemoglobin is 9.7 (whatever that means) I am looking for advice. What are the do's and don'ts of iron infusions? What should I know about iron infusions? Any suggestions in finding a hematologist who understands weight loss patients (and does it matter)? Thanks in advance for all your help. Felice (aka " The 3 time loser " ) Fort Lauderdale, Florida Dr. R. 6' mgb May 2003. 247 lbs Dr. R. 6' mgb reversal January 2005. weight 100 lbs Dr. R. 3' mgb September 2006. weight 211 lbs Present weight: 156 lbs Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 22, 2008 Report Share Posted August 22, 2008 I just completed my 6th out of a series of 10 iron transfusions and it really hasn't been that big of a deal. I was very nervous when my bloodwork came in at my 6 month labs and were showing that my hemaglobin was low. I think that one was 9.1 or 9.3 (it has been tested so many times since then I can't really remember!). My Dr. immediately started me on high doses or oral iron and ordered more iron studies to see what was going on. After 6 weeks I was still incredibly low and not gaining any ground so off to the hematologist I went. She was AWESOME and explained to me what was going on with my iron. My feritin was <1 therefore I had no iron stores. My saturation levels were WAY below normal and etc. I go in once a week for about an 1.5 and take my iron via iv. I have had no side effects. I can't say that I really feel better because I really didn't feel bad before. I have struggled with anemia for years off and on and I think not being able to absorb it just made the problem that much worse. I am religious about taking all of my vitamins and supplements in fact my friends and family make terrible fun of me cuz I have 4 of the weekly 4 times a day pill packs that I load em up in and pack em wherever I go! I look like something carrying them all around! OH well! I FEEL GREAT!!! LOL From what I understand (realize I haven't completed a whole round of iron yet) I go 10 times (3 left....YEAH!) and then I wait 2 weeks have my iron levels tested again. If they are satisfactory then I go in every 3 months for more iron studies and as long as they stay good, I don't have to have more transfusions but as soon as they drop (not sure of the number) then I will start again although I might not require 10 treatments every time. I totally agree with Flo...if you are going to a Dr. and not seeing results with something like this keep looking. We only have 1 body and it is our responsibility to make sure that it is running the way it should and from my experience there are Dr's out there who really really know what they are doing and are most willing to help you get your health back and then there are some that for whatever reason just don't seem to get it. Don't waste your time (or money!!) on the ones that don't get it! Have a great day! Melinda Haynes Dr P 9/28/07 -126 lbs > > > From: flo <flo@...> > > Subject: RE: Low Iron > > > > Date: Thursday, August 21, 2008, 6:45 AM > > Felice: Finding someone who understands matters. My > > daughter (MGB > > 8/4/2000) has been having iron infusions every 18 months > > for the last 4.5 > > years. I started them last month. I have had three and I > > > > Will have my fourth and a blood test today to determine how > > many more, if > > any, I will need. I know I will need more. My hemoglobin > > was 9.5 and my > > iron saturation was 3. I went to a Dr. who told me to take > > over the counter > > iron and eat iron rich foods. She did not suggest > > infusions and I felt > > dreadful. My legs and feet swell, my restless leg syndrome > > was 24/7 and the > > Mirapex was not touching it. I was miserable. I went back > > to the office > > after my last appointment and Dr. P told me to go to > > someone else. I did. > > And he was very reassuring. He told me that my problem was > > chronic anemia > > and that I would need infusions every year to 18 months. > > He said that when > > hemoglobin gets to 11 he likes to see the patients at that > > point. He told me > > that we don't absorb like normal people and for some of > > us, upping the iron > > we take in is not enough. Some of us need infusions. > > > > > > > > When I went for the infusion, they gave me iv benadryl. > > They said that was > > in case I had a reaction to it. They gave me a small > > amount then I waited > > and read a magazine and when I had no reaction, they gave > > me the rest of the > > infusion. The next two times I didn't need anything but > > the iron. I felt > > very little different after the first one. After the > > second one I noticed a > > marked difference in how I felt. I slept about five hours > > where before it > > was 2-3 a night. The third made a huge difference. I did > > not even realize > > that much of what I was experiencing the last 6 months was > > from the low > > iron. > > > > > > > > I no longer have restless legs during the day. I do still > > have them > > beginning about 4 p.m. I am hopeful that as my level > > rises, that it will > > improve. My sleeping has improved. I just feel better. I > > have had an > > extreme amount of energy since about three months after my > > MGB but had > > really slowed down. Since the infusions I don't feel > > like I have to push > > myself. I feel like I have the energy. The swelling in my > > feet and legs had > > subsided but since it's been three weeks since my last > > infusion, my feet and > > legs are huge again. The Dr. said that as my levels go up, > > the swelling will > > go down. The first hematologist told me that I probably > > had congestive > > heart failure and that was causing the swelling. She sent > > me to a > > cardiologist. Wrong.not congestive heart failure, just > > need infusions. > > > > > > > > If doctors suggest that you take in more iron, they > > don't understand our > > lack of absorption. Find someone who does. If it > > hadn't been for Dr. > > Peraglie, I would have continued to think that I could > > raise my levels > > through iron rich foods and over the counter supplements. > > And my levels were > > extremely low and might have gone lower. Make sure you see > > your primary for > > your other issues. For instance, many obese people have low > > levels of > > vitamin D and for some (including me) that continues after > > weight loss. I > > am not supplementing with heavy doses of D. I will be able > > to taper off very > > soon. Be sure to get ALL your labs drawn, not just H and > > H. The > > hematologist will most likely treat only your iron (anemia) > > issues. Most > > will not treat you for the other things, like low D. My > > new Dr. had an > > immediate understanding of the problem, patted me saying he > > was going to > > make me feel much better, and that he understood what my > > problem was and how > > to fix it. If you have to travel to find someone do it. > > > > > > > > Felice, since you're in Florida, if you can't find > > anyone over there, come > > here. It would be once a week for a while and then not > > again for a year or > > 18 months. But this Dr. has a great understanding of our > > issues. The rest > > of our issues need to be addressed by our primary doctors. > > If you go to > > someone there, don't just let them determine your > > treatment. You will need > > to advocate for yourself. If the gynecologist has told you > > to go for iron > > infusions, he or she understands our issues. Good for you. > > You have someone > > who can help with the issues other than low iron should you > > have any. > > > > > > > > OK, off my soap box. As an 8 year MGB veteran, I think that > > I'm ahead of the > > curve with many of our patients. And I think that I should > > share that > > information. That said, I feel that I should also share > > and be honest and > > say that I did not do as I was told to do by Dr. Rutledge. > > After about 5 > > years of always feeling good, I began to slack off on > > vitamins and > > supplements. Big mistake! I preach to our patients about > > the importance of > > doing it and wasn't doing it myself. Some of us are > > more thick headed than > > others and I lead the thick headed pack. I know that's > > not the case with > > you. Just a warning to others who may be reading this that > > slacking off on > > what Dr. R told us we need the rest of our lives will bite > > you in the butt > > some day. And I have a major chunk out of mine! > > > > > > > > Good luck Felice. You will feel much better very soon. > > > > > > > > Flo > > > > > > > > _____ > > > > From: > > [mailto: ] On > > Behalf Of Felice Shekar > > Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2008 2:55 PM > > > > Subject: Re: Low Iron > > > > > > > > I have low iron. I have taken prescription iron for three > > months, I've been > > to the gynocologist and eat foods high in iron. I must now > > take the next > > step of starting iron infusions. My hemoglobin is 9.7 > > (whatever that means) > > I am looking for advice. What are the do's and > > don'ts of iron infusions? > > What should I know about iron infusions? Any suggestions in > > finding a > > hematologist who understands weight loss patients (and does > > it matter)? > > Thanks in advance for all your help. > > Felice (aka " The 3 time loser " ) > > Fort Lauderdale, Florida > > Dr. R. 6' mgb May 2003. 247 lbs > > Dr. R. 6' mgb reversal January 2005. weight 100 lbs > > Dr. R. 3' mgb September 2006. weight 211 lbs > > Present weight: 156 lbs > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 22, 2008 Report Share Posted August 22, 2008 Hi, Dr. R did my mgb in 10/02 & I too followed his instructions faithfully--but I did end up needing IV iron. So I guess this shows how everyone absorbs things differently. I also had issues w/ low vit D. My doc prescribed 50,000 iu once a week for 8 weeks & then an over-the-counter vit D3, 400 iu twice a day. Since then, no probs w/ vit D. Stacey R. 10/23/02 234/127/157 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 22, 2008 Report Share Posted August 22, 2008 Yes, burning tongue is a symptom that I had and didn't equate. For the vitamin D, I will ask Dr. R or Dr. P and post that. My iron was 3. My H and H as of yesterday has come up to 10.6 and 35..which is great! My feet and legs are still swollen but not as bad as it was and the restless legs and jittery arms, etc. are gone except for at night. I'll get back to you on the Vit. D. I am having to find a new primary since mine moved so right now I am just doing about 2400 units a day. Flo _____ From: [mailto: ] On Behalf Of Suzanne Ayers Sent: Thursday, August 21, 2008 11:02 AM Subject: RE: Low Iron Flo, Reading your post was like writing my own. I'm 4.5 years out, and having exactly the same thing. Got my b/t results back last week and I'm headed back for more infusions. It's been a while since I've had them, and clearly I waited too long again! (I have no doubt in my mind that I am THE thick headed pack leader) Anyway.. hemoglobin 9.1. Ferratin level is a whopping <1. I kinda take that number as a zero.. legs and feet swelling. And man is it kickin' my butt in the energy department! And my mouth is on fire.. which is what sent me to get my blood tested, cause I dang sure never do it just for the heck of it ( like I should) And then I started noticing that I felt like I'm losing weight again, but I've been in the process of moving, so my scale has been packed. I unpacked it yesterday, and dangit! Lost another 4 pounds...so it's back to the peanut butter for a while. My vitamin D is low also.. so tell me Flo.. what kind of treatment did your doc give you for the Vitamin D issue? So post ops.. keep in mind.. if you start to notice foods (or liquids.. or toothpaste) burning your mouth, that normally would not.. go get your blood tested.. particularly your ferratin level. It's always a sure sign for me that I've waited too long.. Suzanne in CA 2/11/04 236/118 From: flo <flo@... <mailto:flo%40clos.net> > Subject: RE: Low Iron @gro <mailto:%40> ups.com Date: Thursday, August 21, 2008, 3:45 AM Felice: Finding someone who understands matters. My daughter (MGB 8/4/2000) has been having iron infusions every 18 months for the last 4.5 years. I started them last month. I have had three and I Will have my fourth and a blood test today to determine how many more, if any, I will need. I know I will need more. My hemoglobin was 9.5 and my iron saturation was 3. I went to a Dr. who told me to take over the counter iron and eat iron rich foods. She did not suggest infusions and I felt dreadful. My legs and feet swell, my restless leg syndrome was 24/7 and the Mirapex was not touching it. I was miserable. I went back to the office after my last appointment and Dr. P told me to go to someone else. I did. And he was very reassuring. He told me that my problem was chronic anemia and that I would need infusions every year to 18 months. He said that when hemoglobin gets to 11 he likes to see the patients at that point. He told me that we don't absorb like normal people and for some of us, upping the iron we take in is not enough. Some of us need infusions. When I went for the infusion, they gave me iv benadryl. They said that was in case I had a reaction to it. They gave me a small amount then I waited and read a magazine and when I had no reaction, they gave me the rest of the infusion. The next two times I didn't need anything but the iron. I felt very little different after the first one. After the second one I noticed a marked difference in how I felt. I slept about five hours where before it was 2-3 a night. The third made a huge difference. I did not even realize that much of what I was experiencing the last 6 months was from the low iron. I no longer have restless legs during the day. I do still have them beginning about 4 p.m. I am hopeful that as my level rises, that it will improve. My sleeping has improved. I just feel better. I have had an extreme amount of energy since about three months after my MGB but had really slowed down. Since the infusions I don't feel like I have to push myself. I feel like I have the energy. The swelling in my feet and legs had subsided but since it's been three weeks since my last infusion, my feet and legs are huge again. The Dr. said that as my levels go up, the swelling will go down. The first hematologist told me that I probably had congestive heart failure and that was causing the swelling. She sent me to a cardiologist. Wrong.not congestive heart failure, just need infusions. If doctors suggest that you take in more iron, they don't understand our lack of absorption. Find someone who does. If it hadn't been for Dr. Peraglie, I would have continued to think that I could raise my levels through iron rich foods and over the counter supplements. And my levels were extremely low and might have gone lower. Make sure you see your primary for your other issues. For instance, many obese people have low levels of vitamin D and for some (including me) that continues after weight loss. I am not supplementing with heavy doses of D. I will be able to taper off very soon. Be sure to get ALL your labs drawn, not just H and H. The hematologist will most likely treat only your iron (anemia) issues. Most will not treat you for the other things, like low D. My new Dr. had an immediate understanding of the problem, patted me saying he was going to make me feel much better, and that he understood what my problem was and how to fix it. If you have to travel to find someone do it. Felice, since you're in Florida, if you can't find anyone over there, come here. It would be once a week for a while and then not again for a year or 18 months. But this Dr. has a great understanding of our issues. The rest of our issues need to be addressed by our primary doctors. If you go to someone there, don't just let them determine your treatment. You will need to advocate for yourself. If the gynecologist has told you to go for iron infusions, he or she understands our issues. Good for you. You have someone who can help with the issues other than low iron should you have any. OK, off my soap box. As an 8 year MGB veteran, I think that I'm ahead of the curve with many of our patients. And I think that I should share that information. That said, I feel that I should also share and be honest and say that I did not do as I was told to do by Dr. Rutledge. After about 5 years of always feeling good, I began to slack off on vitamins and supplements. Big mistake! I preach to our patients about the importance of doing it and wasn't doing it myself. Some of us are more thick headed than others and I lead the thick headed pack. I know that's not the case with you. Just a warning to others who may be reading this that slacking off on what Dr. R told us we need the rest of our lives will bite you in the butt some day. And I have a major chunk out of mine! Good luck Felice. You will feel much better very soon. Flo _____ From: @gro ups.com [mailto:@gro ups.com] On Behalf Of Felice Shekar Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2008 2:55 PM @gro ups.com Subject: Re: Low Iron I have low iron. I have taken prescription iron for three months, I've been to the gynocologist and eat foods high in iron. I must now take the next step of starting iron infusions. My hemoglobin is 9.7 (whatever that means) I am looking for advice. What are the do's and don'ts of iron infusions? What should I know about iron infusions? Any suggestions in finding a hematologist who understands weight loss patients (and does it matter)? Thanks in advance for all your help. Felice (aka " The 3 time loser " ) Fort Lauderdale, Florida Dr. R. 6' mgb May 2003. 247 lbs Dr. R. 6' mgb reversal January 2005. weight 100 lbs Dr. R. 3' mgb September 2006. weight 211 lbs Present weight: 156 lbs Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 22, 2008 Report Share Posted August 22, 2008 Thanks Flo... I love to hear Dr P's suggestion on the Vitamin D.. Dr P are you out there? Suzanne in CA 2/11/04 - Rancho 236/118 From: flo <flo@... <mailto:flo% 40clos.net> > Subject: RE: Low Iron @gro <mailto:MGB_ PostOp%40gr oups.com> ups.com Date: Thursday, August 21, 2008, 3:45 AM Felice: Finding someone who understands matters. My daughter (MGB 8/4/2000) has been having iron infusions every 18 months for the last 4.5 years. I started them last month. I have had three and I Will have my fourth and a blood test today to determine how many more, if any, I will need. I know I will need more. My hemoglobin was 9.5 and my iron saturation was 3. I went to a Dr. who told me to take over the counter iron and eat iron rich foods. She did not suggest infusions and I felt dreadful. My legs and feet swell, my restless leg syndrome was 24/7 and the Mirapex was not touching it. I was miserable. I went back to the office after my last appointment and Dr. P told me to go to someone else. I did. And he was very reassuring. He told me that my problem was chronic anemia and that I would need infusions every year to 18 months. He said that when hemoglobin gets to 11 he likes to see the patients at that point. He told me that we don't absorb like normal people and for some of us, upping the iron we take in is not enough. Some of us need infusions. When I went for the infusion, they gave me iv benadryl. They said that was in case I had a reaction to it. They gave me a small amount then I waited and read a magazine and when I had no reaction, they gave me the rest of the infusion. The next two times I didn't need anything but the iron. I felt very little different after the first one. After the second one I noticed a marked difference in how I felt. I slept about five hours where before it was 2-3 a night. The third made a huge difference. I did not even realize that much of what I was experiencing the last 6 months was from the low iron. I no longer have restless legs during the day. I do still have them beginning about 4 p.m. I am hopeful that as my level rises, that it will improve. My sleeping has improved. I just feel better. I have had an extreme amount of energy since about three months after my MGB but had really slowed down. Since the infusions I don't feel like I have to push myself. I feel like I have the energy. The swelling in my feet and legs had subsided but since it's been three weeks since my last infusion, my feet and legs are huge again. The Dr. said that as my levels go up, the swelling will go down. The first hematologist told me that I probably had congestive heart failure and that was causing the swelling. She sent me to a cardiologist. Wrong.not congestive heart failure, just need infusions. If doctors suggest that you take in more iron, they don't understand our lack of absorption. Find someone who does. If it hadn't been for Dr. Peraglie, I would have continued to think that I could raise my levels through iron rich foods and over the counter supplements. And my levels were extremely low and might have gone lower. Make sure you see your primary for your other issues. For instance, many obese people have low levels of vitamin D and for some (including me) that continues after weight loss. I am not supplementing with heavy doses of D. I will be able to taper off very soon. Be sure to get ALL your labs drawn, not just H and H. The hematologist will most likely treat only your iron (anemia) issues. Most will not treat you for the other things, like low D. My new Dr. had an immediate understanding of the problem, patted me saying he was going to make me feel much better, and that he understood what my problem was and how to fix it. If you have to travel to find someone do it. Felice, since you're in Florida, if you can't find anyone over there, come here. It would be once a week for a while and then not again for a year or 18 months. But this Dr. has a great understanding of our issues. The rest of our issues need to be addressed by our primary doctors. If you go to someone there, don't just let them determine your treatment. You will need to advocate for yourself. If the gynecologist has told you to go for iron infusions, he or she understands our issues. Good for you. You have someone who can help with the issues other than low iron should you have any. OK, off my soap box. As an 8 year MGB veteran, I think that I'm ahead of the curve with many of our patients. And I think that I should share that information. That said, I feel that I should also share and be honest and say that I did not do as I was told to do by Dr. Rutledge. After about 5 years of always feeling good, I began to slack off on vitamins and supplements. Big mistake! I preach to our patients about the importance of doing it and wasn't doing it myself. Some of us are more thick headed than others and I lead the thick headed pack. I know that's not the case with you. Just a warning to others who may be reading this that slacking off on what Dr. R told us we need the rest of our lives will bite you in the butt some day. And I have a major chunk out of mine! Good luck Felice. You will feel much better very soon. Flo _____ From: @gro ups.com [mailto:MGB_ PostOp@gro ups.com] On Behalf Of Felice Shekar Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2008 2:55 PM @gro ups.com Subject: Re: Low Iron I have low iron. I have taken prescription iron for three months, I've been to the gynocologist and eat foods high in iron. I must now take the next step of starting iron infusions. My hemoglobin is 9.7 (whatever that means) I am looking for advice. What are the do's and don'ts of iron infusions? What should I know about iron infusions? Any suggestions in finding a hematologist who understands weight loss patients (and does it matter)? Thanks in advance for all your help. Felice (aka " The 3 time loser " ) Fort Lauderdale, Florida Dr. R. 6' mgb May 2003. 247 lbs Dr. R. 6' mgb reversal January 2005. weight 100 lbs Dr. R. 3' mgb September 2006. weight 211 lbs Present weight: 156 lbs Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 21, 2008 Report Share Posted December 21, 2008 Low iron can be from gluten issues. I would think seriously about that. I have taken Biotics Research Fe-Zyme and also VRP.com Iron. Just one per day. Here is more: Iron deficiency is a decrease in the red cells of blood as a result of lack of iron in the blood. The causes can be too little iron in the diet, poor absorption of iron by the body or loss of blood. It is also caused by lead poisoning in children. Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in USA. It results when the body loses more iron than it ingests. Iron is the main ingredient in hemoglobin which is found in red blood cells and is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Without enough iron, body is unable to produce enough hemoglobin and as a result of this muscles get less oxygen which reduces the body energy. Iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of anemia. It occurs slowly when the normal stores of iron are quite low in the body. To produce red blood cells, the body needs, iron, folic acid and vitamin B12. If there is a lack of one or more of these things, anemia will evolve. It must be remembered that anemia is the last result of chronic iron deficiency. The symptoms of iron deficiency are: - Lack of energy, feeling tired and weakness. - Pale skin on the lining of the eyes, the inner mouth, gums and the nails. - Rapid and forceful heart beat. - Low blood pressure with position change, from sitting to standing up. - Finger nails become thin, brittle and white. They may grow abnormally and get a spoon-shaped appearance. - Severe menstrual pain and bleeding. - Tongue may become sore, smooth, shiny and reddened. - Decreased appetite especially in children. - Headache - frontal- - Shortness of breath during exercise. (even during a simple exercise like walking) - Brittle hair. - Reduction in immunity and increased vulnerability to infection. - A strong desire to eat nonfoods such as ice, paint or dirt. A condition called pica. - Disturbed sleep. - Abdominal pain. These symptoms are quite general and could also indicate other health problems or blood disorders. Therefore, if a person has these symptoms he/she should talk to a doctor before taking any iron pills. Taking too much iron can actually be unhealthy. To diagnose iron deficiency anemia, CBC -complete blood test- is used. Other common lab tests are serum ferritin or serum iron, which examines the proteins involved in the storage and transport of iron through the body, stool occult blood test and TIBC -total iron binding capacity- These tests will determine whether a person has an iron deficiency and the degree of its severity. A person suffering from iron deficiency can be cured by some relatively simple and effective treatments like taking iron supplements (tablets, capsules and injections) and increasing iron from food sources (liver, meat, beans, nuts, dried fruits, whole grains, fish, poultry, green leafy vegetables and enriched cereals). Once the disease and its causes are detected, it is not difficult to prevent it. Low Iron What are the implications of low iron?My Ferritin came back at 20.Can someone tell me how much I should be on?And is there a better brand than another?And what does is all mean?Have a Blessed Holiday,Ali Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 21, 2008 Report Share Posted December 21, 2008 Wow! That is a lot of great info.Thank you.AliOn Dec 21, 2008, at 10:03 AM, ladybugsandbees wrote:Low iron can be from gluten issues. I would think seriously about that. I have taken Biotics Research Fe-Zyme and also VRP.com Iron. Just one per day. Here is more:Iron deficiency is a decrease in the red cells of blood as a result of lack of iron in the blood. The causes can be too little iron in the diet, poor absorption of iron by the body or loss of blood. It is also caused by lead poisoning in children. Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in USA. It results when the body loses more iron than it ingests.Iron is the main ingredient in hemoglobin which is found in red blood cells and is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Without enough iron, body is unable to produce enough hemoglobin and as a result of this muscles get less oxygen which reduces the body energy.Iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of anemia. It occurs slowly when the normal stores of iron are quite low in the body. To produce red blood cells, the body needs, iron, folic acid and vitamin B12. If there is a lack of one or more of these things, anemia will evolve. It must be remembered that anemia is the last result of chronic iron deficiency.The symptoms of iron deficiency are:- Lack of energy, feeling tired and weakness.- Pale skin on the lining of the eyes, the inner mouth, gums and the nails.- Rapid and forceful heart beat.- Low blood pressure with position change, from sitting to standing up.- Finger nails become thin, brittle and white. They may grow abnormally and get a spoon-shaped appearance.- Severe menstrual pain and bleeding.- Tongue may become sore, smooth, shiny and reddened.- Decreased appetite especially in children.- Headache - frontal-- Shortness of breath during exercise. (even during a simple exercise like walking)- Brittle hair.- Reduction in immunity and increased vulnerability to infection.- A strong desire to eat nonfoods such as ice, paint or dirt. A condition called pica.- Disturbed sleep.- Abdominal pain.These symptoms are quite general and could also indicate other health problems or blood disorders. Therefore, if a person has these symptoms he/she should talk to a doctor before taking any iron pills. Taking too much iron can actually be unhealthy.To diagnose iron deficiency anemia, CBC -complete blood test- is used. Other common lab tests are serum ferritin or serum iron, which examines the proteins involved in the storage and transport of iron through the body, stool occult blood test and TIBC -total iron binding capacity- These tests will determine whether a person has an iron deficiency and the degree of its severity.A person suffering from iron deficiency can be cured by some relatively simple and effective treatments like taking iron supplements (tablets, capsules and injections) and increasing iron from food sources (liver, meat, beans, nuts, dried fruits, whole grains, fish, poultry, green leafy vegetables and enriched cereals). Once the disease and its causes are detected, it is not difficult to prevent it. Low IronWhat are the implications of low iron?My Ferritin came back at 20.Can someone tell me how much I should be on?And is there a better brand than another?And what does is all mean?Have a Blessed Holiday,Ali Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 21, 2008 Report Share Posted December 21, 2008 if I could to this from below, parasites could also be an issue as well as not ingesting and esp. not able to digest protein. (hemoglobin is made of protein), also hormonal issues from the kidney ( hormones are made of protein) not eating red meat at least 2x weekly and the best way to get iron is to make old fashioned bone broth using shin bones and the marrow. www.westonaprice.org for bone broth recipes and more info. hth, linda rn Low Iron What are the implications of low iron?My Ferritin came back at 20.Can someone tell me how much I should be on?And is there a better brand than another?And what does is all mean?Have a Blessed Holiday,Ali Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 23, 2009 Report Share Posted October 23, 2009 > > what is the best absorbed iron to take? > ive tried 3 different types and still cant raise my ferritin. > .x > anyone? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 23, 2009 Report Share Posted October 23, 2009 Hi , Ascorbic acid (vit C) taken with any of the regular iron supplements will help it to be absorbed. The other trick is to use red meat to utilise the alternative absorption mechanism for heme iron ~ or 'black pudding'...or liver if you can tolerate either of the latter. best wishes Bob > > what is the best absorbed iron to take? > ive tried 3 different types and still cant raise my ferritin. > .x > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 23, 2009 Report Share Posted October 23, 2009 It depends on how much iron you are taking . If your ferritin is very low, you need to take 200mgs of Ferrous Sulphate or Ferrous Fumerate - probably 3 times daily. You should take this with 4/5000mgs Vitamin C and with orange juice. Once you start to build up, the dose can be dropped to 200mgs once daily. What have you been taking and what dose, and how long since you started taking it? Luv - Sheila > > what is the best absorbed iron to take? > ive tried 3 different types and still cant raise my ferritin. > .x > anyone? No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.423 / Virus Database: 270.14.25/2450 - Release Date: 10/22/09 18:44:00 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 23, 2009 Report Share Posted October 23, 2009 > > It depends on how much iron you are taking . If your ferritin is very > low, you need to take 200mgs of Ferrous Sulphate or Ferrous Fumerate - > probably 3 times daily. You should take this with 4/5000mgs Vitamin C and > with orange juice. Once you start to build up, the dose can be dropped to > 200mgs once daily. What have you been taking and what dose, and how long > since you started taking it? > > > > Luv - Sheila > > > > what is the best absorbed iron to take? > > ive tried 3 different types and still cant raise my ferritin. > > .x > > > anyone? > > > > No virus found in this incoming message. > Checked by AVG - www.avg.com > Version: 8.5.423 / Virus Database: 270.14.25/2450 - Release Date: 10/22/09 > 18:44:00 > i took ferrous salphate for a year but only 200mgs a day. i tried spatone,did nothing,now im trying hemoplex. is it safe to take 600mgs aday? .x Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 23, 2009 Report Share Posted October 23, 2009 > > It depends on how much iron you are taking . If your ferritin is very > low, you need to take 200mgs of Ferrous Sulphate or Ferrous Fumerate - > probably 3 times daily. You should take this with 4/5000mgs Vitamin C and > with orange juice. Once you start to build up, the dose can be dropped to > 200mgs once daily. What have you been taking and what dose, and how long > since you started taking it? > > > > Luv - Sheila > > > > what is the best absorbed iron to take? > > ive tried 3 different types and still cant raise my ferritin. > > .x > > > anyone? > > > > No virus found in this incoming message. > Checked by AVG - www.avg.com > Version: 8.5.423 / Virus Database: 270.14.25/2450 - Release Date: 10/22/09 > 18:44:00 > i was taking ferrous salphate but only 200mg a day,ive tried spatone and now hemaplex. is it safe to take 600mg a day of iron if ferritin is very low? .x Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 23, 2009 Report Share Posted October 23, 2009 Just looked galfer syrup up on google and find that it's ferrous fumarate. This is the form of iron I get, very cheaply, from Zipvit. Hans > > I swear by liquid iron which is available on prescription. Ask your GP about galfer syrup. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 23, 2009 Report Share Posted October 23, 2009 Just looked galfer syrup up on google and find that it's ferrous fumarate. This is the form of iron I get, very cheaply, from Zipvit. Hans > > I swear by liquid iron which is available on prescription. Ask your GP about galfer syrup. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 24, 2009 Report Share Posted October 24, 2009 > > > > It depends on how much iron you are taking . If your ferritin is very > > low, you need to take 200mgs of Ferrous Sulphate or Ferrous Fumerate - > > probably 3 times daily. You should take this with 4/5000mgs Vitamin C and > > with orange juice. Once you start to build up, the dose can be dropped to > > 200mgs once daily. What have you been taking and what dose, and how long > > since you started taking it? > > > > > > > > Luv - Sheila > > > > > > what is the best absorbed iron to take? > > > ive tried 3 different types and still cant raise my ferritin. > > > .x > > > > > anyone? > > > > > > > > No virus found in this incoming message. > > Checked by AVG - www.avg.com > > Version: 8.5.423 / Virus Database: 270.14.25/2450 - Release Date: 10/22/09 > > 18:44:00 > > > i took ferrous salphate for a year but only 200mgs a day. > > i tried spatone,did nothing,now im trying hemoplex. > > is it safe to take 600mgs aday? > .x > can anyone help me with this? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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