Super low Ferritin

Ju

I'm just like a kid running home for help when they run into trouble. I haven't been here in quite a while. This is the first time my labs have been a problem.  My ferritin is only 7.  My iron is normal at 70 and hemoglobin is 12.5.  My surgeon was useless. No advice at all. Just said if my hemoglobin and iron go down he will do an iron infusion. 

Any suggestions?  

Definitely worth trying to get a referral to a real hematologist. That 7 is waaay too low regardless of the other levels.  Someone with real background needs to check those labs. Supplements with a ferritin of 7 aren't going to be enough to bring things up. Iron supplements help us maintain but aren't too good at helping us bring the lab levels up from that low. By "us" I mean malabsorbers. Keep us posted.

--gina

Thanks Gina. 

Ask for infusions ASAP.

Your hemoglobin is your checking account of iron. Your ferritin is the savings account that honors the checks written by your hemoglobin.

If your ferritin is low, your hemoglobin is writing checks your ferritin can no longer homor.

Also have them do a complete iron panel...not just ferritin and hemoglobin.

Low iron doesn't always make everyone tired...with me, low ferritin (of a 26) and low iron saturation rate (under a 30%) gave me secondary RLS

http://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-disorders-problems/restless-legs-syndrome

Secondary RLS, on the other hand, is believed to be caused by a separate underlying medical condition or in association with the use of certain drugs. For example, some of these conditions include vein disease in the legs such as varicose veins, kidney failure, low levels of iron or anemia, pregnancy, and peripheral neuropathy (a problem with the nerves that carry information to and from the brain and spinal cord that produces pain, loss of sensation, and inability to control muscles). Stress, diet or other environmental factors can also play a role in developing secondary RLS.

Cheryl....It's so GREAT to hear from you!!!  You have a 6th year Surgiversary coming up soon...Congrats!!

I'm really glad you turned to our LW's with your concern.   I don't have any opinions on your labs except I'm sorry you are having this issue and that Gina and Southern Lady are the ones to listen too.