Re: advice -- revisited - Iron

[Guest guest]

Hi,all,

I agree that we have to take a lot of what we find on the Internet VERY skeptically.

I do not absorb iron. As a result, my iron stores dip into the single digits. My docs (rheumatologist, gastroenterologist, and hemotologist) were extremely careful in investigating all avenues as to why this is, including doing a colonoscopy and endoscopy to check for internal bleeding. Nothing showed up. I tried all manner of oral iron preparations, but couldn't absorb any of them. I went through 4 iron infusions at the end of '06, and I can tell you they have made a world of positive difference for me. Since then, my iron stores have begun to dip, again, and my hemotolgist said they'd like to keep my ferritin at 50, if possible. I know I'll have to have periodic infusions to keep at this level, but it does do me great good.

When someone mentioned the iron overload site, I did look at it. If I'd followed what it said, I would be in terrible shape by now -- we have to really do all the due dilligence in terms of tests to see WHY our ferritin is low (if it is), and then work with a doctor who knows the intricacies of iron and iron deficiency. Some people do not absorb iron, not from diet, and not from supplements. And iron is important, not just in terms of preventing anemia, but for the function of our brain and heart, too.

I mentioned the site to my hemotologist, by the way. She is aware of the condition of "iron overload," and said that it's something that hemotologists and oncologists try to manage closely, if it is the case. But single-digit ferritin stores are lower than normal. Definitely not overload.

Hope this helps!

Maureen PrattAOL now offers free email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at AOL.com.