This Happen to anyone else???

[help_mee]

I have been on Iron pills for the last 9 months. In July, my number was 129. In December it was down to 116. I just got another test done and the number is up a bit but not much. My doctor told me that I have to be on iron for a year now. I've been getting bruises that can't be explained. They aren't just little bruises either. The one on my inner calve (that I just woke up with) is about 2-3 inches in diameter and all different colours. I haven't seen one like this before. Even when I really hurt myself I don't get bruises like this. I have light regular periods. No nosebleeds, no unexplained bleeding to cause the anemia and I eat very well (have to set a good example for my two little ones). I do get bad headaches right behind my eyes mostly. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[meggiemeg86]

Well, I would definitely go to more doctors. Did they rule out all cancers or leukemia?

[aquila]

Have you seen a hematologist?

[acuann]

Are you on any medications, including birth control or an IUD?

Are you taking prescription iron pills? They are notoriously poorly assimilated in the body. Do you take vitamin C as well? This can help with iron absorption. EmergenC is the vitamin C I recommend. Vit C deficiency can cause bruising.

Have they tested B12 levels? Read the thread on B12 misdiagnosis...I recommend methylcobalamin B12 over cyanocobalamin as it is better absorbed.

Good sources of iron include blackstrap molasses, raisins, apricots, brewer's yeast, spinach, lentils, red meat (organic is best), red beans, cherries. Any of the "red" foods will help with blood. Burdock is very good, as well as alfalfa and nettles. Food and herbal sources are MUCH better IMO than straight iron supplements.

I agree with the other post that a hematologist would be good.

Best wishes
DOM

[LymeTime]

hematologist is good to see, blood tests for unusually high iron, 24 hour hevy metal urine screen.