Re: An update regarding my situation...

[Guest guest]

It's my opinion that at your ferritin level you wouldn't have any symptoms.

When you get symptoms damage has been done and the sypmtoms are generally not

reversible. Although I wouldn't panic, I'd still get it checked out. Better

safe than sorry.

> >

> > Hey guys,

> >

> > I talked to my doctor yesterday regarding my ferritin levels.

> >

> > As mentioned earlier, my ferritin value is 337, with the normal range being

between 20-250.

> >

> > The doc called me on the phone and I was perhaps a little unprepared and

could have been more assertive in my case.

> >

> > I basically expressed my concerns about these levels and asked if he had not

seen that it was out of range earlier and what his opinion was?

> >

> > He simply told me that they did not take any action unless the levels were

close to 500 and that everything was completely normal. Nothing to worry about.

> >

> > I asked him why the reference range did not extend to 500 then, but he

basically just shrugged it off and told me not to worry about it.

> >

> > He told me that I should take a new test in 6 months and see if everything

was okay then.

> >

> > What do you guys think?

> >

> > I am afraid of being perceived as a crybaby and a hypochondriac, but I have

to say I am still a little concerned.

> >

> > I will not wait 6 months that is certain though. Perhaps I will wait a few

weeks and then call to arrange a test.

> >

> > On a sidenote, I`ve generally been feeling better lately and I think my

libido has increased. I started listening to some positive self-help tapes on

Sunday and I`ve been great the whole week.

> >

> > However, today has been one of those days where I have been super-tired with

no seemingly good reason. I have remained positive though, but have felt very

tired, taxed and even slightly anxious. It seems to have gone away now.

> >

> > Thanks for reading.

> >

> > Best regards,

> >

> > Elijah

> >

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

this is just my thinking and things I went through when I felt bad and did

testing it showed up. When I felt good and this happened to me many times doing

tests did not show a problem. One thing that did not show up was a heart

problem doing stress tests. Yet when I had bad heartburn and trouble breathing

the tests showed a problem.

I can't tell you what to do you need to make you mind up on this. If I were you

I would not workout hard feeling like this you can burn out your Adrenals and

end up with low Cortisol levels if you don't have them now.

I have found when one hormone goes bad the rest take a hit trying to fix the bad

one. I have talked to a lot of young men working out going to Collage and

ending up with Adrenal Fatigue.

Some had to drop out of school and make a big life change before going back to

school. Your body can only take so much and as you get older you need to listen

to it no pain no gain is BULL.

I would not put off the testing for ever but if your feeling good wait until

your feeling bad again if it happens.

Co-Moderator

Phil

>

>

> From: esplinbj <no_reply >

> Subject: Re: I talked with my doctor

> yesterday regarding my ferritin levels...

>

> Date: Saturday, May 9, 2009, 5:28 AM

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> I don't want to sound alarmist, but I think your doctor is

> crazy. I have found that iron overload like hormones is

> something most doctors don't know much about. I said I think

> it's unlikely you have organ damage at your ferritin level,

> but I think at 500 is is very likely you could have organ

> damage. Iron levels go up as men age, but you aren't that

> old so I think you must have something going on. Do a google

> search on Hemochromatosis and you can read all about it for

> yourself. You should ask your doctor, or a new one, to do a

> complete iron panal which would include blood iron level, %

> saturation, total iron binding capacity, unbound iron

> binding capacity, and ferritin level. When your blood iron

> gets too high your body starts to store it in the organs and

> tissues. The ferritin level is a measure of stored iron.

> Usually if your ferritin level is high it would be an

> indication that you have too much iron in your blood and

> your body is storing the excess.

> As I have said before the only way you can get rid iron is

> through tissue leaving the body such as hair, nails, dead

> skin and blood. Your body has no way of getting rid of it

> otherwise. If your body absorbs too much iron it just builds

> up and gets stored.

>

> My blood iron level and % saturation was high, but my

> ferritin level topped out at 169, which really isn't that

> high, but a liver biopsy showed elevated iron levels in the

> liver. Now I keep it between 10 and 20.

>

> I really think you need to find a doctor who will take this

> seriously and run more tests. Like I said before the

> treatment is simple.

>

> >

> > Hey guys,

> >

> > I talked to my doctor yesterday regarding my ferritin

> levels.

> >

> > As mentioned earlier, my ferritin value is 337, with

> the normal range being between 20-250.

> >

> > The doc called me on the phone and I was perhaps a

> little unprepared and could have been more assertive in my

> case.

> >

> > I basically expressed my concerns about these levels

> and asked if he had not seen that it was out of range

> earlier and what his opinion was?

> >

> > He simply told me that they did not take any action

> unless the levels were close to 500 and that everything was

> completely normal. Nothing to worry about.

> >

> > I asked him why the reference range did not extend to

> 500 then, but he basically just shrugged it off and told me

> not to worry about it.

> >

> > He told me that I should take a new test in 6 months

> and see if everything was okay then.

> >

> > What do you guys think?

> >

> > I am afraid of being perceived as a crybaby and a

> hypochondriac, but I have to say I am still a little

> concerned.

> >

> > I will not wait 6 months that is certain though.

> Perhaps I will wait a few weeks and then call to arrange a

> test.

> >

> > On a sidenote, I`ve generally been feeling better

> lately and I think my libido has increased. I started

> listening to some positive self-help tapes on Sunday and

> I`ve been great the whole week.

> >

> > However, today has been one of those days where I have

> been super-tired with no seemingly good reason. I have

> remained positive though, but have felt very tired, taxed

> and even slightly anxious. It seems to have gone away now.

> >

> > Thanks for reading.

> >

> > Best regards,

> >

> > Elijah

> >

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>      

>

>

[Guest guest]

If I remember correctly, your ferritin level was around 350. I'm not a doctor,

but if I had that test result, I would not be complacent about it. You may not

have hemochromatosis, which is genetically caused, but it certainly appears to

be iron overload of some form.

If you can't persuade your doctor to do anything about it, there's nothing

stopping you from undertaking your own treatment in the form of donating blood

on a regular basis - as often as they will let you come back. In addition, you

can make sure your multivitamin/mineral tablet has no iron, and your breakfast

cereal as well. Substitute poultry or fish for red meat. Eat cruciferous

vegetables. That kind of thing.

I know in the past Phil has said he was given medical advice to get his ferritin

level up to 100 or higher, and felt better while taking iron supplements. I

strongly disagree with that advice, and think it's completely wrong. If you

have low iron levels in the blood - the regular iron blood test, not ferritin -

so that you have anemia, then iron supplements might make sense. But ferritin

is just a crude measurement of EXCESS iron stores in the body tissues, where it

has no benefit of any kind, and can only cause trouble. Excess iron is an

aggressively harmful substance in the body tissues.

The last time I had ferritin measured, mine was 32. From what I read at the

time, that seemed to be a good number. In fact, people who are being actively

treated for iron overload are treated until their ferritin levels are below 50.

It may be that your current ferritin level is having no negative effect. But

it's hard to see what the downside would be of getting it substantially lower,

whether you doctor cooperates with that or not. In any case, you are going to

have to do your own research on this. I may be completely wrong. Google is

your friend.

> >

> > Hey guys,

> >

> > I talked to my doctor yesterday regarding my ferritin levels.

> >

> > As mentioned earlier, my ferritin value is 337, with the normal range being

between 20-250.

> >

> > The doc called me on the phone and I was perhaps a little unprepared and

could have been more assertive in my case.

> >

> > I basically expressed my concerns about these levels and asked if he had not

seen that it was out of range earlier and what his opinion was?

> >

> > He simply told me that they did not take any action unless the levels were

close to 500 and that everything was completely normal. Nothing to worry about.

> >

> > I asked him why the reference range did not extend to 500 then, but he

basically just shrugged it off and told me not to worry about it.

> >

> > He told me that I should take a new test in 6 months and see if everything

was okay then.

> >

> > What do you guys think?

> >

> > I am afraid of being perceived as a crybaby and a hypochondriac, but I have

to say I am still a little concerned.

> >

> > I will not wait 6 months that is certain though. Perhaps I will wait a few

weeks and then call to arrange a test.

> >

> > On a sidenote, I`ve generally been feeling better lately and I think my

libido has increased. I started listening to some positive self-help tapes on

Sunday and I`ve been great the whole week.

> >

> > However, today has been one of those days where I have been super-tired with

no seemingly good reason. I have remained positive though, but have felt very

tired, taxed and even slightly anxious. It seems to have gone away now.

> >

> > Thanks for reading.

> >

> > Best regards,

> >

> > Elijah

> >

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Ok just to clear the air I don't think I told him to take iron I was telling him

what the Dr. told me my levels should be on iron. Here is a search full of

info.

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en & lr= & q=high+ferritin+causes & aq=1 & oq=High+Ferri\

& aqi=g10

Co-Moderator

Phil

> From: wayback44 <no_reply >

> Subject: Re: An update regarding my situation...

>

> Date: Wednesday, May 20, 2009, 6:36 PM

> If I remember correctly, your

> ferritin level was around 350.  I'm not a doctor, but

> if I had that test result, I would not be complacent about

> it.  You may not have hemochromatosis, which is

> genetically caused, but it certainly appears to be iron

> overload of some form.

>

> If you can't persuade your doctor to do anything about it,

> there's nothing stopping you from undertaking your own

> treatment in the form of donating blood on a regular basis -

> as often as they will let you come back.  In addition,

> you can make sure your multivitamin/mineral tablet has no

> iron, and your breakfast cereal as well.  Substitute

> poultry or fish for red meat.  Eat cruciferous

> vegetables.  That kind of thing.

>

> I know in the past Phil has said he was given medical

> advice to get his ferritin level up to 100 or higher, and

> felt better while taking iron supplements.  I strongly

> disagree with that advice, and think it's completely

> wrong.  If you have low iron levels in the blood - the

> regular iron blood test, not ferritin - so that you have

> anemia, then iron supplements might make sense.  But

> ferritin is just a crude measurement of EXCESS iron stores

> in the body tissues, where it has no benefit of any kind,

> and can only cause trouble.  Excess iron is an

> aggressively harmful substance in the body tissues.

>

> The last time I had ferritin measured, mine was 32. 

> From what I read at the time, that seemed to be a good

> number.  In fact, people who are being actively treated

> for iron overload are treated until their ferritin levels

> are below 50.

>

> It may be that your current ferritin level is having no

> negative effect.  But it's hard to see what the

> downside would be of getting it substantially lower, whether

> you doctor cooperates with that or not.  In any case,

> you are going to have to do your own research on this. 

> I may be completely wrong.  Google is your friend.

>

>

>

> > >

> > > Hey guys,

> > >

> > > I talked to my doctor yesterday regarding my

> ferritin levels.

> > >

> > > As mentioned earlier, my ferritin value is 337,

> with the normal range being between 20-250.

> > >

> > > The doc called me on the phone and I was perhaps

> a little unprepared and could have been more assertive in my

> case.

> > >

> > > I basically expressed my concerns about these

> levels and asked if he had not seen that it was out of range

> earlier and what his opinion was?

> > >

> > > He simply told me that they did not take any

> action unless the levels were close to 500 and that

> everything was completely normal. Nothing to worry about.

> > >

> > > I asked him why the reference range did not

> extend to 500 then, but he basically just shrugged it off

> and told me not to worry about it.

> > >

> > > He told me that I should take a new test in 6

> months and see if everything was okay then.

> > >

> > > What do you guys think?

> > >

> > > I am afraid of being perceived as a crybaby and a

> hypochondriac, but I have to say I am still a little

> concerned.

> > >

> > > I will not wait 6 months that is certain though.

> Perhaps I will wait a few weeks and then call to arrange a

> test.

> > >

> > > On a sidenote, I`ve generally been feeling better

> lately and I think my libido has increased. I started

> listening to some positive self-help tapes on Sunday and

> I`ve been great the whole week.

> > >

> > > However, today has been one of those days where I

> have been super-tired with no seemingly good reason. I have

> remained positive though, but have felt very tired, taxed

> and even slightly anxious. It seems to have gone away now.

> > >

> > > Thanks for reading.

> > >

> > > Best regards,

> > >

> > > Elijah

> > >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >       

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Thanks guys,

I was not aware that I made a new thread when I changed the subject heading, but

I guess it is allright.

Maybe it`s karma or maybe not, but in the period after I wrote this thread I

have been feeling significantly worse once again.

I have now ordered a new appointment with my doctor where I will demand to get

some new bloodwork done.

I think I will ask for testolevels as well, just to see if there is any

differences there from the last time, but my main concern is iron levels.

And yes, even if I don`t have hemachromotosis, I think I will try donating

blood.

Good advice.

I`ll keep you guys posted.

Best regards,

Elijah

[Guest guest]

Something you could try in order to get more information would be to call a

gastroenterologist's(the kind of specialist who works with hemochromatosis)

office and ask to speak to a nurse. Tell the nurse what your ferritin level is

and see what she/he has to say about it. They might tell you to get an

appointment and come in thus bypassing your doctor who doesn't want to do

anything about it.

BJ

>

> Thanks guys,

>

> I was not aware that I made a new thread when I changed the subject heading,

but I guess it is allright.

>

> Maybe it`s karma or maybe not, but in the period after I wrote this thread I

have been feeling significantly worse once again.

>

> I have now ordered a new appointment with my doctor where I will demand to get

some new bloodwork done.

>

> I think I will ask for testolevels as well, just to see if there is any

differences there from the last time, but my main concern is iron levels.

>

> And yes, even if I don`t have hemachromotosis, I think I will try donating

blood.

>

> Good advice.

>

> I`ll keep you guys posted.

>

> Best regards,

>

> Elijah

>

[Guest guest]

If you don't get any where see a blood Dr. make sure you test your testosterone

the same time and way you did it last time. I get mine tested fasting early in

the morning 8 to 9am the day of my next shot or when I was on gels or creams

before I put them on.

Co-Moderator

Phil

> From: johnnypilskog <johnnypilskog@...>

> Subject: Re: An update regarding my situation...

>

> Date: Thursday, May 21, 2009, 6:30 PM

> Thanks guys,

>

> I was not aware that I made a new thread when I changed the

> subject heading, but I guess it is allright.

>

> Maybe it`s karma or maybe not, but in the period after I

> wrote this thread I have been feeling significantly worse

> once again.

>

> I have now ordered a new appointment with my doctor where I

> will demand to get some new bloodwork done.

>

> I think I will ask for testolevels as well, just to see if

> there is any differences there from the last time, but my

> main concern is iron levels.

>

> And yes, even if I don`t have hemachromotosis, I think I

> will try donating blood.

>

> Good advice.

>

> I`ll keep you guys posted.

>

> Best regards,

>

> Elijah

>

>

>

> ------------------------------------

>

>

[Guest guest]

Guys,

I have to wait two weeks for an appointment with the doc, but I was told that if

I wanted blood tests I could just show up at the lab.

Thus, I showed up today and told the nurse that I wanted to take a new test

similar to the last one, with ferritin being the one I am most interested in.

I made some small talk and told her that since ferritin does not necessarily

mean higher iron levels she needed to add a iron panel to the test as well.

To this she answered that they only used to test ferritin to check iron levels.

I told her yes, but that it is only partially true since ferritin can get

elevated due to other conditions as well. I mentioned to her that it is normal

to take a complete iron panel, and it seems like some lights went on in her head

then. I can`t say I felt that this was very assuring.

As for hemachromatosis, she did not know what kind of test that was and I had to

ask my doctor personally about this.

Oh well, I will get the test results in the middle of next week.

At least I will get some answers....

[Guest guest]

Hello all,

I just received my fresh bloodwork and the ferritin levels are even higher this

time.

In March, I had 340.

On this test, I had 405.

Upper reference level is 250.

I also tested FSH and LH, and these were at the exact levels as last time, i.e.

bottom range. I`m curious if the high ferritin levels could be what is pushing

FSH and LH down.

I have an appointment with my doctor on friday 5th of June.

Do you guys think I should speed up the process and ask if I can see another

doc? My main doc is on vacation.

Even though I have had periods of great energy lately (perhaps relatively great

who knows), I have noticed that libido is still low.

I never have a morning erection anymore...

Actually, I`m glad that ferritin levels were higher, because that means that I

probably have found what is wrong with me and can hopefully cure it.

If ferritin levels had been lower I would have been a little worried simply

because I would not know what to do.

Thank you very much guys, you`ve been a great support!

Best regards,

Elijah

[Guest guest]

I would see a Hematologist and Gastrologist don't mess around with your family

Dr. Yet in this link they say (Very high ferritin levels (greater than 1,000

ng/mL) can indicate an abnormal build up of iron in the body that include:

-hemochromatosis,

-alcoholism,

-thalassemia, and

-some types of anemia)

http://www.doctorslounge.com/hematology/forums/backup/topic-13575.html

Co-Moderator

Phil

> From: johnnypilskog <johnnypilskog@...>

> Subject: Re: An update regarding my situation...

>

> Date: Wednesday, May 27, 2009, 4:11 AM

> Hello all,

>

> I just received my fresh bloodwork and the ferritin levels

> are even higher this time.

>

> In March, I had 340.

>

> On this test, I had 405.

>

> Upper reference level is 250.

>

> I also tested FSH and LH, and these were at the exact

> levels as last time, i.e. bottom range. I`m curious if the

> high ferritin levels could be what is pushing FSH and LH

> down.

>

> I have an appointment with my doctor on friday 5th of

> June.

>

> Do you guys think I should speed up the process and ask if

> I can see another doc? My main doc is on vacation.

>

> Even though I have had periods of great energy lately

> (perhaps relatively great who knows), I have noticed that

> libido is still low.

>

> I never have a morning erection anymore...

>

> Actually, I`m glad that ferritin levels were higher,

> because that means that I probably have found what is wrong

> with me and can hopefully cure it.

>

> If ferritin levels had been lower I would have been a

> little worried simply because I would not know what to do.

>

> Thank you very much guys, you`ve been a great support!

>

> Best regards,

>

> Elijah

>

>

>

> ------------------------------------

>

>

[Guest guest]

I don't know at what ferritin level organ damage starts to happen, but like I

said in an earlier post your level will only go up unless action is taken. I

wouldn't delay too long.

>

> Hello all,

>

> I just received my fresh bloodwork and the ferritin levels are even higher

this time.

>

> In March, I had 340.

>

> On this test, I had 405.

>

> Upper reference level is 250.

>

> I also tested FSH and LH, and these were at the exact levels as last time,

i.e. bottom range. I`m curious if the high ferritin levels could be what is

pushing FSH and LH down.

>

> I have an appointment with my doctor on friday 5th of June.

>

> Do you guys think I should speed up the process and ask if I can see another

doc? My main doc is on vacation.

>

> Even though I have had periods of great energy lately (perhaps relatively

great who knows), I have noticed that libido is still low.

>

> I never have a morning erection anymore...

>

> Actually, I`m glad that ferritin levels were higher, because that means that I

probably have found what is wrong with me and can hopefully cure it.

>

> If ferritin levels had been lower I would have been a little worried simply

because I would not know what to do.

>

> Thank you very much guys, you`ve been a great support!

>

> Best regards,

>

> Elijah

>

[Guest guest]

I will call the doctors office tomorrow and see if I can visit another doctor

ASAP.

 

I`m not sure if I asked this already, but could the fact that I have eaten red

meat daily for a while cause such high levels alone?

 

I know that naturally red meat does not help and it might have worsened my

condition whatever it is, but red meat alone in the diet of a healthy person

should not cause such high levels right?

 

Thanks,

 

Elijah

From: esplinbj <no_reply >

Subject: Re: An update regarding my situation...

Date: Wednesday, May 27, 2009, 6:30 PM

I don't know at what ferritin level organ damage starts to happen, but like I

said in an earlier post your level will only go up unless action is taken. I

wouldn't delay too long.

>

> Hello all,

>

> I just received my fresh bloodwork and the ferritin levels are even higher

this time.

>

> In March, I had 340.

>

> On this test, I had 405.

>

> Upper reference level is 250.

>

> I also tested FSH and LH, and these were at the exact levels as last time,

i.e. bottom range. I`m curious if the high ferritin levels could be what is

pushing FSH and LH down.

>

> I have an appointment with my doctor on friday 5th of June.

>

> Do you guys think I should speed up the process and ask if I can see another

doc? My main doc is on vacation.

>

> Even though I have had periods of great energy lately (perhaps relatively

great who knows), I have noticed that libido is still low.

>

> I never have a morning erection anymore...

>

> Actually, I`m glad that ferritin levels were higher, because that means that I

probably have found what is wrong with me and can hopefully cure it.

>

> If ferritin levels had been lower I would have been a little worried simply

because I would not know what to do.

>

> Thank you very much guys, you`ve been a great support!

>

> Best regards,

>

> Elijah

>

[Guest guest]

Eating high iron foods will make the problem worse, but I don't think it would

cause it on it's own, it's a metabolic disorder of absorbing too much iron. The

more iron available to absorb, then the more you will probably will absorb. I

don't take any suppliments with iron, and I don't use iron cookware but

otherwise I don't avoid foods with iron, I just give blood regularly to keep my

level down. I gave five pints at a lab over about six weeks to get my level

normal to begin with and I give between four to six pints a year to keep it low.

I have it checked once a year to moniter the situation. To date I given 21

pints. I have another appiontment monday to give blood again.

> >

> > Hello all,

> >

> > I just received my fresh bloodwork and the ferritin levels are even higher

this time.

> >

> > In March, I had 340.

> >

> > On this test, I had 405.

> >

> > Upper reference level is 250.

> >

> > I also tested FSH and LH, and these were at the exact levels as last time,

i.e. bottom range. I`m curious if the high ferritin levels could be what is

pushing FSH and LH down.

> >

> > I have an appointment with my doctor on friday 5th of June.

> >

> > Do you guys think I should speed up the process and ask if I can see another

doc? My main doc is on vacation.

> >

> > Even though I have had periods of great energy lately (perhaps relatively

great who knows), I have noticed that libido is still low.

> >

> > I never have a morning erection anymore...

> >

> > Actually, I`m glad that ferritin levels were higher, because that means that

I probably have found what is wrong with me and can hopefully cure it.

> >

> > If ferritin levels had been lower I would have been a little worried simply

because I would not know what to do.

> >

> > Thank you very much guys, you`ve been a great support!

> >

> > Best regards,

> >

> > Elijah

> >

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

That`s good to hear.

I quickly browsed through your replies, but I did not see you writing anywhere

that you actually have hemochromatosis. I`m asking since I`ve read that it is

possible to have iron overload without it being hemochromatosis.

They say that damage is not reversible and in particular impotency.

I have not had a 100% morning erection in a LONG time. Do you think this could

be due to my iron overload?

I am not impotent, usually on most days I can achieve a 100% erection, but I

definitely have experienced a huge loss in libido over time.

Periodically since I realized I had a problem, I have had periods where I have

had higher libido and frequency of erections, but the last weeks my dick has

been close to dead.

Will these negative effects be reversible if they are caused by the iron

overload? I sure hope so....

I have an appointment with my doc on wednesday.

I will bring with me information that I have printed out from some Norwegian

sites on the subject.

Even a public healthcare site says that ferritin levels between 200-400 gives

reason to suspect hemachromatosis.

How do I check for organ damage? I suspect that I might have to take

responsibility for this myself so I would like to know in advance.

Thanks in advance,

Elijah

> > >

> > > Hello all,

> > >

> > > I just received my fresh bloodwork and the ferritin levels are even higher

this time.

> > >

> > > In March, I had 340.

> > >

> > > On this test, I had 405.

> > >

> > > Upper reference level is 250.

> > >

> > > I also tested FSH and LH, and these were at the exact levels as last time,

i.e. bottom range. I`m curious if the high ferritin levels could be what is

pushing FSH and LH down.

> > >

> > > I have an appointment with my doctor on friday 5th of June.

> > >

> > > Do you guys think I should speed up the process and ask if I can see

another doc? My main doc is on vacation.

> > >

> > > Even though I have had periods of great energy lately (perhaps relatively

great who knows), I have noticed that libido is still low.

> > >

> > > I never have a morning erection anymore...

> > >

> > > Actually, I`m glad that ferritin levels were higher, because that means

that I probably have found what is wrong with me and can hopefully cure it.

> > >

> > > If ferritin levels had been lower I would have been a little worried

simply because I would not know what to do.

> > >

> > > Thank you very much guys, you`ve been a great support!

> > >

> > > Best regards,

> > >

> > > Elijah

> > >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

In the following link about lab ranges and in some labs they say what is best

range. Here is what is said about ferritin.

Optimal Range:

50–150 ng/mL

Yet some people have levels way higher then this and are fine ferritin is what

is stored in your liver or body. What harms you is what is used. If your Total

and % of Iron is above the top of the range you have a Problem.

You need a CBC test, and Total Iron, Iron Binding Capacity and Iron %

Saturation.

http://www.lef.org/protocols/appendix/blood_testing_01.htm

Do searchs at google and about.com along with WebMD.com and read up on this.

Co-Moderator

Phil

> From: johnnypilskog <johnnypilskog@...>

> Subject: Re: An update regarding my situation...

>

> Date: Friday, May 29, 2009, 4:06 PM

> That`s good to hear.

>

> I quickly browsed through your replies, but I did not see

> you writing anywhere that you actually have hemochromatosis.

> I`m asking since I`ve read that it is possible to have iron

> overload without it being hemochromatosis.

>

> They say that damage is not reversible and in particular

> impotency.

>

> I have not had a 100% morning erection in a LONG time. Do

> you think this could be due to my iron overload?

>

> I am not impotent, usually on most days I can achieve a

> 100% erection, but I definitely have experienced a huge loss

> in libido over time.

>

> Periodically since I realized I had a problem, I have had

> periods where I have had higher libido and frequency of

> erections, but the last weeks my dick has been close to

> dead.

>

> Will these negative effects be reversible if they are

> caused by the iron overload? I sure hope so....

>

> I have an appointment with my doc on wednesday.

>

> I will bring with me information that I have printed out

> from some Norwegian sites on the subject.

>

> Even a public healthcare site says that ferritin levels

> between 200-400 gives reason to suspect hemachromatosis.

>

> How do I check for organ damage? I suspect that I might

> have to take responsibility for this myself so I would like

> to know in advance.

>

> Thanks in advance,

>

> Elijah

>

>

>

>

>

> > > >

> > > > Hello all,

> > > >

> > > > I just received my fresh bloodwork and the

> ferritin levels are even higher this time.

> > > >

> > > > In March, I had 340.

> > > >

> > > > On this test, I had 405.

> > > >

> > > > Upper reference level is 250.

> > > >

> > > > I also tested FSH and LH, and these were at

> the exact levels as last time, i.e. bottom range. I`m

> curious if the high ferritin levels could be what is pushing

> FSH and LH down.

> > > >

> > > > I have an appointment with my doctor on

> friday 5th of June.

> > > >

> > > > Do you guys think I should speed up the

> process and ask if I can see another doc? My main doc is on

> vacation.

> > > >

> > > > Even though I have had periods of great

> energy lately (perhaps relatively great who knows), I have

> noticed that libido is still low.

> > > >

> > > > I never have a morning erection anymore...

> > > >

> > > > Actually, I`m glad that ferritin levels were

> higher, because that means that I probably have found what

> is wrong with me and can hopefully cure it.

> > > >

> > > > If ferritin levels had been lower I would

> have been a little worried simply because I would not know

> what to do.

> > > >

> > > > Thank you very much guys, you`ve been a

> great support!

> > > >

> > > > Best regards,

> > > >

> > > > Elijah

> > > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >       

> > >

> > > [Non-text portions of this message have been

> removed]

> > >

> >

>

>

>

>

> ------------------------------------

>

>

[Guest guest]

What I have been diagnosed with is hetrozygous hemochromatosis, which means I

have the gene from one parent and not both parents. I believe that the other

term is homozygous hemochromatosis which is when you have the gene from both

parents, which is a worse situation where you likely absorb even more iron and

have to give even more blood to keep it under control.

In a sence the term hemochromatosis is used when you actually have the symptoms

of the disorder. If you keep your iron under control and never have organ

damage or symptoms then you could say you don't have iron overload, but

technically you still have hemochromatosis.

My gastroenterologist told me that the symptom that brings most men with

hemochromatosis into the doctors office is erectile dysfunction. I think that

the first organ damaged though is the liver. I had a liver biopsy which showed

elevated iron stores, but no damage. In retrospect I think it would have been

better not to have had the biopsy because I have learned they are dangerous,

with risk of bleeding, and infection, and I think that my ferritin level was

never high enough to have caused liver damage.

I have been having a hormonal imbalance with low free testosterone, and high

estradiol. I wonder if this could have been cause by some problem with the

liver or pituitary, but I don't know.

My high iron was found by accident in a routine blood test four years ago when I

was 40 years old. My Serum Iron was 240, range 35-155 and iron saturation was

91%, range 15-55, my ferritin was 169 range 10-322. As you can see, my ferritin

wasn't out of range, only the blood level and percent saturation, which means I

had too much in my blood, and the excess goes to storage in the organs. Had I

waited another few years the ferritin would have gotten a lot higher. I'm lucky

I found this out before it got out of hand.

From what I have read I think that the really dangerous ferritin levels are in

the 800-1000 range and higher so I am glad you found out early and I suspect no

harm has been done, but of course I can't say.

One thing that does seem certain is that your iron level is going up so I don't

think it has been caused by some event where you were over exposed to iron. I

think it will just continue to rise. If you didn't find out about it for

several more years then I think you really would have a problem.

I had my blood checked once and my iron was low, so I thought I would hold off a

while giving blood. After six months I had it check again, and it was out of

range on the high side again. So I just decided to keep giving blood at two

month intervals, and check it every year.

It's been a while since I studied up on hemochromatosis, but if I remember right

most of the harm caused by iron overload is not reversable. Some of the common

symptoms are fatigue, arthritis, pigmenting of the skin, erectile dysfunction.

Organ damage is done to the liver, heart, pituatary, testicles, etc.

I don't mean to bore you by going on and on, but I hope you find this

information usefull. I'm glad you are getting into a doctor soon, and I

wouldn't let them brush you off and say nothing needs to be done.

If you would like to know more about me I have a I have a bodyspace page on

bodybuilding.com at the following link. I use the TRT forum there a lot also.

http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/BJEopa/

bjesplin

> > > >

> > > > Hello all,

> > > >

> > > > I just received my fresh bloodwork and the ferritin levels are even

higher this time.

> > > >

> > > > In March, I had 340.

> > > >

> > > > On this test, I had 405.

> > > >

> > > > Upper reference level is 250.

> > > >

> > > > I also tested FSH and LH, and these were at the exact levels as last

time, i.e. bottom range. I`m curious if the high ferritin levels could be what

is pushing FSH and LH down.

> > > >

> > > > I have an appointment with my doctor on friday 5th of June.

> > > >

> > > > Do you guys think I should speed up the process and ask if I can see

another doc? My main doc is on vacation.

> > > >

> > > > Even though I have had periods of great energy lately (perhaps

relatively great who knows), I have noticed that libido is still low.

> > > >

> > > > I never have a morning erection anymore...

> > > >

> > > > Actually, I`m glad that ferritin levels were higher, because that means

that I probably have found what is wrong with me and can hopefully cure it.

> > > >

> > > > If ferritin levels had been lower I would have been a little worried

simply because I would not know what to do.

> > > >

> > > > Thank you very much guys, you`ve been a great support!

> > > >

> > > > Best regards,

> > > >

> > > > Elijah

> > > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

[Guest guest]

I don't mean to be disagreeable, but I have to disagree with your statement that

stored iron doesn't harm you. It is the stored iron in your organs that damages

them. Iron oxidizes. It basically causes your organs to rust. The purpose of

de-ironing your body is to cause an iron deficiency in your blood so that your

body will pull the iron out of your organs in order to fill it's need to make

red blood cells. People with iron overload generally give blood every week or

even twice a week to draw the iron out of the organs. Once the ferritin level

is at about 10 then de-ironing is complete and that person should keep his

ferritin level below 50. Mine usually tests in the 10-20 range.

Higher ferritin levels may be okay if they are stable, but if it is continually

rising the you have to do something about it.

By saying higher level I mean the upper normal range, not way over normal.

bjesplin

>

>

> In the following link about lab ranges and in some labs they say what is best

range. Here is what is said about ferritin.

>

> Optimal Range:

> 50†" 150 ng/mL

>

> Yet some people have levels way higher then this and are fine ferritin is what

is stored in your liver or body. What harms you is what is used. If your Total

and % of Iron is above the top of the range you have a Problem.

>

> You need a CBC test, and Total Iron, Iron Binding Capacity and Iron %

Saturation.

>

> http://www.lef.org/protocols/appendix/blood_testing_01.htm

>

> Do searchs at google and about.com along with WebMD.com and read up on this.

> Co-Moderator

> Phil

>

>

[Guest guest]

OK I was just repeating what I read at one site it stated Ferritin levels up to

1000 don't harm organs. I feel from what your going through you know more and I

thank you for your help. Most of the men I come across on TRT there blood gets

to thick and they give blood. Over time they end up with low ferritin and Iron

levels.

I have heard Dr. post at his web site that high iron levels will lower

Testosterone. Go to his forum and check it out.

http://www.musclechatroom.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=2

The following link is his web site.

www.allthingsmale.com he put his treatment on this site free for all to read

it's dam good and the most up to date ways to treat this. Read TRT: Recipe for

Success and his HCG update.

Co-Moderator

Phil

> From: esplinbj <no_reply >

> Subject: Re: An update regarding my situation...

>

> Date: Saturday, May 30, 2009, 1:14 AM

> I don't mean to be disagreeable, but

> I have to disagree with your statement that stored iron

> doesn't harm you.  It is the stored iron in your organs

> that damages them.  Iron oxidizes.  It basically

> causes your organs to rust.  The purpose of de-ironing

> your body is to cause an iron deficiency in your blood so

> that your body will pull the iron out of your organs in

> order to fill it's need to make red blood cells. 

> People with iron overload generally give blood every week or

> even twice a week to draw the iron out of the organs. 

> Once the ferritin level is at about 10 then de-ironing is

> complete and that person should keep his ferritin level

> below 50.  Mine usually tests in the 10-20 range.

>

> Higher ferritin levels may be okay if they are stable, but

> if it is continually rising the you have to do something

> about it.

>

> By saying higher level I mean the upper normal range, not

> way over normal.

>

> bjesplin

>

> >

> >

> > In the following link about lab ranges and in some

> labs they say what is best range.  Here is what is said

> about ferritin.

> >

> > Optimal Range:

> >  50†" 150 ng/mL

> > 

> > Yet some people have levels way higher then this and

> are fine ferritin is what is stored in your liver or

> body.  What harms you is what is used.  If your

> Total and % of Iron is above the top of the range you have a

> Problem.

> >

> > You need a CBC test, and Total Iron, Iron Binding

> Capacity and Iron % Saturation.

> >

> > http://www.lef.org/protocols/appendix/blood_testing_01.htm

> >

> > Do searchs at google and about.com along with

> WebMD.com and read up on this.

> > Co-Moderator

> > Phil

> >

> >

>

>

>

>

> ------------------------------------

>

>

[Guest guest]

Again I don't mean to be disagreeable, and I apologize if I was harsh. You are

right, I think organ damage starts in the 800-1000 range. It's true that

someone with normal iron could get too low giving blood regularly, but I don't

have that problem.

bjesplin

> > >

> > >

> > > In the following link about lab ranges and in some

> > labs they say what is best range.  Here is what is said

> > about ferritin.

> > >

> > > Optimal Range:

> > >  50†" 150 ng/mL

> > > 

> > > Yet some people have levels way higher then this and

> > are fine ferritin is what is stored in your liver or

> > body.  What harms you is what is used.  If your

> > Total and % of Iron is above the top of the range you have a

> > Problem.

> > >

> > > You need a CBC test, and Total Iron, Iron Binding

> > Capacity and Iron % Saturation.

> > >

> > > http://www.lef.org/protocols/appendix/blood_testing_01.htm

> > >

> > > Do searchs at google and about.com along with

> > WebMD.com and read up on this.

> > > Co-Moderator

> > > Phil

> > >

> > >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > ------------------------------------

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

No problem I am Glad your here helping.

Co-Moderator

Phil

> From: esplinbj <no_reply >

> Subject: Re: An update regarding my situation...

>

> Date: Saturday, May 30, 2009, 10:57 AM

> Again I don't mean to be

> disagreeable, and I apologize if I was harsh.  You are

> right, I think organ damage starts in the 800-1000

> range.  It's true that someone with normal iron could

> get too low giving blood regularly, but I don't have that

> problem.

>

> bjesplin

>

> > > >

> > > >

> > > > In the following link about lab ranges and

> in some

> > > labs they say what is best range.  Here is

> what is said

> > > about ferritin.

> > > >

> > > > Optimal Range:

> > > >  50†" 150 ng/mL

> > > > 

> > > > Yet some people have levels way higher then

> this and

> > > are fine ferritin is what is stored in your liver

> or

> > > body.  What harms you is what is used.  If

> your

> > > Total and % of Iron is above the top of the range

> you have a

> > > Problem.

> > > >

> > > > You need a CBC test, and Total Iron, Iron

> Binding

> > > Capacity and Iron % Saturation.

> > > >

> > > > http://www.lef.org/protocols/appendix/blood_testing_01.htm

> > > >

> > > > Do searchs at google and about.com along

> with

> > > WebMD.com and read up on this.

> > > > Co-Moderator

> > > > Phil

> > > >

> > > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > > ------------------------------------

> > >

> > >

[Guest guest]

Hello all,

I just got back from the doctor.

When I told him my suspicions about hemochromatosis, he said that I definitely

did NOT have hemochromatosis.

I then proceeded to tell him that I had read there could be reason to suspect

hemochromatosis when people only had half the levels that I do, 200 (I have

405).

Yes he said, but he had taken another iron test that negated my suspicions.

Apparently, I also tested for something called, PS-IRON-FASTING where my value

was 16.2 on a scale ranging from 9 to 34.

I think this is the test you guys call serum iron.

According to him, this negated the theory about hemachromatosis because this

test would have to be elevated as well.

What do you guys think?

I really not trust my doctors abilities, but me might be right about this one.

He made me take some other tests, for example blood count, calsium, etc.

I`m calling him on monday to hear the results.

I will try to get in touch with another doctor on the phone in order to get a

second opinion.

Thanks for reading.

Best regards,

Elijah

> >

> > Hello all,

> >

> > I just received my fresh bloodwork and the ferritin levels are even higher

this time.

> >

> > In March, I had 340.

> >

> > On this test, I had 405.

> >

> > Upper reference level is 250.

> >

> > I also tested FSH and LH, and these were at the exact levels as last time,

i.e. bottom range. I`m curious if the high ferritin levels could be what is

pushing FSH and LH down.

> >

> > I have an appointment with my doctor on friday 5th of June.

> >

> > Do you guys think I should speed up the process and ask if I can see another

doc? My main doc is on vacation.

> >

> > Even though I have had periods of great energy lately (perhaps relatively

great who knows), I have noticed that libido is still low.

> >

> > I never have a morning erection anymore...

> >

> > Actually, I`m glad that ferritin levels were higher, because that means that

I probably have found what is wrong with me and can hopefully cure it.

> >

> > If ferritin levels had been lower I would have been a little worried simply

because I would not know what to do.

> >

> > Thank you very much guys, you`ve been a great support!

> >

> > Best regards,

> >

> > Elijah

> >

>

[Guest guest]

I don't know what the PS-Iron-Fasting is, and I don't know what to tell you to

do. I still think that your ferritin level is too high, and by what you have

said, it has been going up. The following is a link on hemochomatosis.

http://www.medifocushealth.com/GS020/Diagnosis-of-Hereditary-Hemochromatosis_Lab\

oratory-Evaluation-of-Hereditary-Hemochromatosis.php

If PS-Iron-Fasting is Fasting Iron Percent Saturation, then the above article

explains it. If this is what your 16.2 is then it looks like your saturation is

low normal. My percent saturation was 92 when first checked. Clearly putting

me in the hemochromatosis catagory according to the above article. If your

doctor decides not to do anything about your ferritin level, then I think it

would be wise to give blood a few times a year just as a precaution.

Good luck, bjesplin

> > >

> > > Hello all,

> > >

> > > I just received my fresh bloodwork and the ferritin levels are even higher

this time.

> > >

> > > In March, I had 340.

> > >

> > > On this test, I had 405.

> > >

> > > Upper reference level is 250.

> > >

> > > I also tested FSH and LH, and these were at the exact levels as last time,

i.e. bottom range. I`m curious if the high ferritin levels could be what is

pushing FSH and LH down.

> > >

> > > I have an appointment with my doctor on friday 5th of June.

> > >

> > > Do you guys think I should speed up the process and ask if I can see

another doc? My main doc is on vacation.

> > >

> > > Even though I have had periods of great energy lately (perhaps relatively

great who knows), I have noticed that libido is still low.

> > >

> > > I never have a morning erection anymore...

> > >

> > > Actually, I`m glad that ferritin levels were higher, because that means

that I probably have found what is wrong with me and can hopefully cure it.

> > >

> > > If ferritin levels had been lower I would have been a little worried

simply because I would not know what to do.

> > >

> > > Thank you very much guys, you`ve been a great support!

> > >

> > > Best regards,

> > >

> > > Elijah

> > >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Elijah,

Your doctor is a moron.

I have been beating my chest on this issues since I have been a member of this

group. I self diagnosed for hemochromatosis when I had an Fe of about 500.

THE ONLY WAY TO DETERMINE IF YOU HAVE HEMOCHROMATOSIS IS TO HAVE THE HFE GENE

TESTED FOR THE C282Y AND H63D MUTATIONS.

Most doctors are idiots and most will give you a hard time if you want the test.

When I concluded I had it, my Electro-Physiologist and the the prize winning

Hematologist criticized me and scoffed. When the test came back as heterozygous

with both mutations present they all said WOW you were right. When I asked for

my deductible back they said no!

I know as much if not more than 90% of the doctors in the U.S. on regarding

hemochromatosis. Did you know it was traced back as far as the 6th Century?

Did you know people who had hemochromatosis handling corpse during the black

plague did not die because for whatever reason the plague could not affect those

with such high iron.

Did you know there is significant data evolving that suspects more than C282Y

and H63D? Did oyu know the T2* is the only diagnostic to detect iron levels

with detail and is able to quantify?

I DID.

Yet, most every time I post on this issue in here it is seldom responded to and

is more often ignored. I am willing to bet the iron in our food delivered by

the FDA via enrichment and fortification programs is responsible for the

majority of type 2 diabetes and kills us off at an age to maintain population

and government socialized programs. Do you have any idea how much, even if oyu

do not have hemochromatosis, you are affected by the type of non bioavailable

iron stuffed in our food products?

DO YOU REALIZE HOW MUCH MORE COMPLICATING AND COMPOUNDING IT IS TO OUR

PITUITARY, HYPOTHALAMUS, GONAD, ADRENAL AND OTHER GLANDS?

I am only the messenger, but let Darwin prevail to those who do not heed this

information.

Tom U

> > >

> > > Hello all,

> > >

> > > I just received my fresh bloodwork and the ferritin levels are even higher

this time.

> > >

> > > In March, I had 340.

> > >

> > > On this test, I had 405.

> > >

> > > Upper reference level is 250.

> > >

> > > I also tested FSH and LH, and these were at the exact levels as last time,

i.e. bottom range. I`m curious if the high ferritin levels could be what is

pushing FSH and LH down.

> > >

> > > I have an appointment with my doctor on friday 5th of June.

> > >

> > > Do you guys think I should speed up the process and ask if I can see

another doc? My main doc is on vacation.

> > >

> > > Even though I have had periods of great energy lately (perhaps relatively

great who knows), I have noticed that libido is still low.

> > >

> > > I never have a morning erection anymore...

> > >

> > > Actually, I`m glad that ferritin levels were higher, because that means

that I probably have found what is wrong with me and can hopefully cure it.

> > >

> > > If ferritin levels had been lower I would have been a little worried

simply because I would not know what to do.

> > >

> > > Thank you very much guys, you`ve been a great support!

> > >

> > > Best regards,

> > >

> > > Elijah

> > >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Good post!

I was diagnosed with hetrozygous hemochromatosis, not by genetic testing, but

the more traditional methods. So I guess I can't say for sure, I just know I

have the ability to store excess iron.

Like you said, whenever I bring up hemochromatosis nobody listens. My own

brothers won't get their iron level tested. I brought this up on the

bodybuilding.com forum and nobody replied. This is something that needs to be

out in the open and everyone needs to be more aware of. Like you said it is the

cause of diabetes hypogonadism and many other illnesses, and is usually

overlooked by doctors.

bjesplin

> > > >

> > > > Hello all,

> > > >

> > > > I just received my fresh bloodwork and the ferritin levels are even

higher this time.

> > > >

> > > > In March, I had 340.

> > > >

> > > > On this test, I had 405.

> > > >

> > > > Upper reference level is 250.

> > > >

> > > > I also tested FSH and LH, and these were at the exact levels as last

time, i.e. bottom range. I`m curious if the high ferritin levels could be what

is pushing FSH and LH down.

> > > >

> > > > I have an appointment with my doctor on friday 5th of June.

> > > >

> > > > Do you guys think I should speed up the process and ask if I can see

another doc? My main doc is on vacation.

> > > >

> > > > Even though I have had periods of great energy lately (perhaps

relatively great who knows), I have noticed that libido is still low.

> > > >

> > > > I never have a morning erection anymore...

> > > >

> > > > Actually, I`m glad that ferritin levels were higher, because that means

that I probably have found what is wrong with me and can hopefully cure it.

> > > >

> > > > If ferritin levels had been lower I would have been a little worried

simply because I would not know what to do.

> > > >

> > > > Thank you very much guys, you`ve been a great support!

> > > >

> > > > Best regards,

> > > >

> > > > Elijah

> > > >

> > >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

I am sure most have been frustrated by sharing data that is not received or

raising the issue to have it overlooked. This is not going to be well received,

but I have come to a point that if it is not received I have delivered the info

and my responsibility to the species has been met. After that I rely on Darwin

and unfortunately find comfort that ignorance, denial and rationalism costs,

sometimes the ultimate price. However, it does weed out those on the planet who

" fail to adapt " and in a very macro level ensures or at least increases the odds

of evolutionary change even though Lemar may get the win.

Iron is the nuclei of every red blood cell in your body........how much more

obvious does it need to be? polarity, size and quality are not only factors but

are without exception. Hang in there, hepcidin and other assays are out there

and are coming on line.

Respectfully, the only way oyu can be 100% certain is to have your HFE gene

tested = simple blood draw.

> > > > >

> > > > > Hello all,

> > > > >

> > > > > I just received my fresh bloodwork and the ferritin levels are even

higher this time.

> > > > >

> > > > > In March, I had 340.

> > > > >

> > > > > On this test, I had 405.

> > > > >

> > > > > Upper reference level is 250.

> > > > >

> > > > > I also tested FSH and LH, and these were at the exact levels as last

time, i.e. bottom range. I`m curious if the high ferritin levels could be what

is pushing FSH and LH down.

> > > > >

> > > > > I have an appointment with my doctor on friday 5th of June.

> > > > >

> > > > > Do you guys think I should speed up the process and ask if I can see

another doc? My main doc is on vacation.

> > > > >

> > > > > Even though I have had periods of great energy lately (perhaps

relatively great who knows), I have noticed that libido is still low.

> > > > >

> > > > > I never have a morning erection anymore...

> > > > >

> > > > > Actually, I`m glad that ferritin levels were higher, because that

means that I probably have found what is wrong with me and can hopefully cure

it.

> > > > >

> > > > > If ferritin levels had been lower I would have been a little worried

simply because I would not know what to do.

> > > > >

> > > > > Thank you very much guys, you`ve been a great support!

> > > > >

> > > > > Best regards,

> > > > >

> > > > > Elijah

> > > > >

> > > >

> > >

> >

>