Question:
I have just received an iron infusion due to malabsorption of iron since surgery.

Has anyone else gone through this. I am two years postop and an severely anemic at this point. N0thing much to do except have iron infusions when the blood count drops. Part of the resection of the stomach (duodenum) is bypassed and that is why iron is not absorbed. Vitamins or iron rich foods wont help. Just wanted to know if anyone else has gone through this.    — rhonda D. (posted on August 20, 2003)

August 20, 2003
I've got a current level of 8.4. The gyn did an ablation but I'm still having periods anyway. PCP wants me to go back to gyn for "a permanent" solution and if that doesn't work, then on to the added iron. Co-worker dropped to 4.9 and had a blood transfusion & is scheduled for uterus removal.... What happens during a transfusion? Is it just iron or actually a blood transfusion?
   — lessofme170

August 20, 2003
I am almost 8 months out. I am unable to tolerate the iron pills. The Hemotologist says this is very common with bypass patients. He will be retesting my iron in December and if necessary will give it to me through I.V. I look forward to this, rather than being sick all the time from the pills. Good luck!
   — sherry H.

August 21, 2003
I am almost 7 months out, and experiencing the same problem, however, I am taking iron every day. But my level is at 4, which is very scary. I'm tired all the time, and can't concentrate very well. I see my gyn this afternoon, she is definitely recommending a hysterectomy because she says between the malabsorbtion and the heavy bleeding, my body will never be able to keep up. I'm just hoping I can have a tummy tuck at the same time. My surgeons are recommending a transfusion before surgery to get my blood level up. Good luck to you.
   — Jennifer C.

August 21, 2003
I just posted some advice on this site today...if you take calcium supplements it can interfere with absorbtion of iron if taken at same time...hope this helps...
   — BLSLIM77

August 25, 2003
I am almost 3 years post-op and severly anemic. At first, I was on iron pills. My body did not respond to them even when the dose was increased. I had to have an iron infusion treatment once a week for 12 weeks starting from April 23, 2003. I can't remember what the mumbers were, but there was improvement in my energy levels, ability to concentrate...etc after the treatments. I will have blood work again on Sept.23 to see if I need anymore treatments.
   — Char S.

March 13, 2007
I don't work
   — elifritz