Question:
Denied Surgery for hernia

Hi guys...well, I was "supposed" to have my hernia repair done on the 5th of this month but...I got to the hospital, had the IV set up and then the anethesiologist came in and said that my iron count was still too low (5.3) and that he wouldn't do it cause I was liable to have a stroke or heart attack on the table from this. Has anyone else had this happen and how did they get the count back up? I have been on iron tablets (many) for months now to no avail (my count has actually gone down)...by the way, I had the BPD/DS. I would love to know what others do that have this problem and also, if you have had hernias, do they also make you throw up and feel nausceous all day long? Mine do and I can't imagine feeling this way for the next 2 months till I get this count under control... thanks for all your help....Barb    — Barbara H. (posted on September 9, 2000)

September 9, 2000
My father had surgery (kidney stone) cancelled recently due to a low iron count. If your iron count is low, surgery can be dangerous. Are you also eating iron rich foods? Cooking in a cast iron skillet can help increase the iron count of the food you eat. Also, orange juice helps iron absorbtion. But, I imagine you already know that.
   — Gina E.

September 10, 2000
You could speak with your doctor about taking more iron supplements. My friend had the same surgery as you,& while she was preganant, she had to take 4 iron tabs a day & her labs were still low. Also vit. c helps with the absorption of iron.
   — Amy B.