Low Red Cell count

[Detector]

Hi, I had a burst stomach ulcer last summer, and it was pointed out I had low iron levels. I have been on Iron Sulphate tablets since, but by iron levels although slightly better are still low. Because of the new data regulations, I obtained by medical results for the last 9 years or so. Worryingly, I see that my Red Cell count (RCC) has been decreasing steadily over this period from a normal level of about 5 to 4.4 ( low range limit is 4.5 ) . I visited the doctor to discuss but she said it was old age, as some of my other results looked OK. On checking on the web, I saw that one of the symptoms of low RCC is pounding noises in the ears from which I suffer. Also, I have also noted a steady increase in my serum urea levels.

Also, as I may be prone to ulcers and have a family history of Bowel cancer I would like to use a different iron mediation - one that does not turn my stool dark brown so I can see any problems that might occur etc.

Anyone got any ideas or suggestions.

[Kwenda]

I often eat liver to maintain my iron levels.

Dick

[Detector in reply to Kwenda]

Not keen on Liver or Kale! I know there are other foods which have a reasonable amount of iron.

[Detector in reply to Kwenda]

You can get liver in capsules, but I do like liver pate so that is not bad although a bit fatty. Spinach in a fruit smoothie is another idea.

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

Hello and welcome to the forum! I was found to be anemic after my bypass. Not being keen on iron tablets as they can also cause constipation I looked into diet. My iron levels are now in the normal range after including liver every two to three weeks and spinach at least twice a week. I was also surprised to learn that iron is more readily absorbed from meat products than vegetables. Worst absorption is from iron tablets. The same applies for calcium.

[MichaelJH Heart Star in reply to MichaelJH]

Forgot to add that unfortunately it is a myth that Guinness contains iron otherwise I would have asked for a prescription! There is a Sanatogen Tonic Wine with Iron. Apparently it does up your iron (and alcohol) levels but if you like a decent Merlot or Shiraz you will opt for the Shiraz instead and have spinach with the meal!!!

[Twobells]

I also have this issue, but I a have been referred for test, one up the rear end CT and another camera down the throat into stomach the GP and the Gastro consultant believe I may have some internal bleeding. The stool and urine test do not show blood and I remain anaemic regardless of iron tablets. Consultant said anaemia makes your heart have to work harder hence all the investigations. I would go back to GP and ask for referral to gastro. I asked why these test and she said that being on blood thinners and heart meds can cause lesions on internal organs, so looking for ulcers and lumps that could be the cause. I must say though I feel great and I don't think the test will show anything sinister, I think my GP is just airng on the side of caution.

Hope this helps

[Moonflower76]

Liquid iron is supposed to be safer for the stomach . It still caused me problems . I am also having an endoscopy . I still have low iron. Maybe up the beans and lentils, mussles , clams, spinach and red meat if you eat it?

[Twobells]

Don'ea red meat at all. Cardiologist advised me not too, but I haven't touched red meat for a very long time. Tend to eat turkey and fish.