Iron man trials

[Graham1956]

Hello everyone just been to see cardiologist who’s informed me about iron injection trials for people like myself with HF. So I’ve signed up. My question is (as I know nothing) is anyone els reading this post familiar with or indeed on the iron man trials and if so I would love to hear your story. I’m also getting put back on entresto instead of Losartan so really hoping it works for me this time. Looking forward to your reply’s

[skid112 Heart Star]

Hi

bit on the BHF here bhf.org.uk/news-from-the-bh...

[laura_dropstitch Heart Star]

Hi, I've been doing the Ironman trials for about a year now. I was lucky enough to be assigned (randomly) to the group that does get the iron infusion. It was great, I had so much energy for the first couple of months after it. Unfortunately, since then, one or other of my iron-level readings has always been too high (often by a single unit) to receive another dose. So on my last few visits, I've just walked up and down a corridor for a few minutes, filled in a quick questionnaire and had blood tests, just as you will do if you're in the non-iron group. My nurse is quite chatty and knowledgeable and seems to think, if the results keep going as they have so far, that iron treatment will be offered to all HF patients in the not-too-distant future. So even if you do end up in the non-iron group, you'll still be making a valuable difference to all our futures. Win-win! If you have any questions about it, feel free to fire them my way and I'll do my best to answer. Good luck

[Graham1956 in reply to laura_dropstitch]

Hi Laura thanks for the quick reply. Good to hear your experience of the trial I’m about to go on. I’m hoping I get the iron and not placebo and also that it makes me feel better than I do now. Guess they will monitor me with blood tests etc. I’m just anxious as usual.

[laura_dropstitch Heart Star]

Yes, fingers crossed for the iron infusion! I definitely felt better after my infusion, had a lot more energy. But it did coincide with the beginning of the better weather and the end of Entresto side effects, so could be down to any/all of the above. I don't think you have much to be anxious about really. Even if you don't get the iron, you will get a few extra check-ups and blood tests, which can only be a good thing. If you do have any worries, you should get a chance to talk them over with a research nurse during your first appointment. My experience has been very positive. Good luck!

[Graham1956 in reply to laura_dropstitch]

Thanks Laura I will definitely ask research nurse what’s involved hopefully then I’ll be less anxious.

[gal4God]

I’m on iron tablets and blood tynfusions. Sorry I can’t spell spell.

[Nanne]

Hi How did you get on to this trial. I am doing some HF trials at Leeds but this one sound as if it has really positive outcomes

[Graham1956]

Hi Nanne, I was asked at my recent appointment with cardiologist if I’d like to take part in the iron man trial she thinks I could benefit. If your interested in taking part you should ask your cardiologist/heart nurse if you qualify. I knew nothing about iron man trials until cardiologist asked me if I’d be willing to take part.