Low iron, low energy and discouraged...

I am not sure if the low iron (saturation of 8) is what is causing the "dog tired" feeling that seems to be constant with me. I can't seem to do much other than go to work and come home to bed. I've been taking Niferex Forte that my surgeon prescribed and I've not seen any difference as of yet...it has only been one week but I've been good about taking it. He also told me to push through the tiredness and exercise. I went to exercise class last night and thought I wouldn't make it through a whole day of work. THIS SUCKS!!!!!!!! A nutritionist friend told me to take tablespoon of blackstrap molasses three times a day. I have been doing that as well. Thought it couldn't hurt adding it to the iron. It seems a little bit that no one is listening to me (doctors wise) because I feel BAD!! Maybe it just takes a while to get to feeling better but again....THIS SUCKS!!!!! Anyone else having the same problems? Phyllis 2 1/2 years po -90 lbs

Phyliss, Satuation of 8 is VERY LOW> Have you been checked to be sure there is no other reason for this low level? It is why you are so tired, mine has been this low but not since my surgery. I had other problems that caused this along with a hereditary predisposition to not absorb iron. My levels are still low but nothing like this low anymore. I do remember being so tired I did not think I could get through the day. You should keep pushing you Dr. until you get the help you need and be sure you know the reason why you are having this issue. Judy E.

HEY GAL!!! WHERE have you been!! It's great to see you on here!! Sorry to hear you're struggling. I recently went through a really tough spell, where all I wanted to do was sleep...then it occurred to me, I had NOT been taking my B-12 like I should. Are you doing that? I take extra if I feel tired and it seems to help. My doc says you really can't take too much b-12, your body will just expel the excess through urination... Just a thought...sometimes it's the simple stuff...I HOPE that's all it is for you... Stay in touch, OK? Tami

Hey Tami, I have been very religious about my B-12. I take it every morning before I get into the shower. My POC gave me a B-12 shot as well. It just doesn't seem to have improved anything. I am really going to push my doctor tomorrow (I have an appointment at 8:30 a.m.). I had a whole bunch of blood work done on 30 June that showed my B-12 at 472 (normal is 211-911). My iron serum(?) was at 34 (normal 35-155) and iron saturation was at 8. Another thing, my blood sugar was at 53 the day I had my blood work done which I know will make you tired...however, I don't think that is the continuing saga. I think you would have some high as well as lows with the blood sugar issue. I haven't really had any normal times of late in my energy level. I've even wondered if my blood pressure is too low or my heart is not functioning at full capacity...I'm grasping at straws. I'll let everyone know what the doc says tomorrow. Hopefully he won't make me feel like a hypochondriac(sp?). LOL Phyllis

Thanks for bringing up this topic, Phyllis. About 6 months ago I went for my annual check up with my primary care physician & had bloodwork done. Turns out I was low on iron and she prescribed "Slow Fe." I went for another bloodtest this past Monday & will let y'all know if that did the trick. I asked her about what may cause the occasional puffiness in my ankles & was surprised when she said it was "malnourishment." I assumed it was dehydration. She said it could be a deficiency in calcium or protein or something else (don'[t remember). Anyhow, having taken 7 vials of my blood, we should have an extremely detailed snapshot of what I am or am not needing. Lauralyn

Girl, I know we have spoke about this on many occasions, but just wanted to say that I'm here for you always. Love ya gal! Tonya