Vitamin d iron stores and calcium low levels.

[Ems666]

Hi all I'm back again with yet another question any help and info would be grate.

Still waiting for rheumatologist appointment but I'm having problems with vitamin d iron stores (ferrtin levels) and calcium is this at all anyway connected to lupus?

My iron levels are in normal range but now my iron stores are low vitamin d levels are ok but calcium is on the low side I am on tablets for all of theses things it's just all getting a bit confusing and frustrating now

Many thanks emma.

[Myncare]

People with LUPUS can be low on Vitamin D as they are sensitive to the sun. By the information you gave, its too early to conclude on what is really happening. Now a days, many ways to fill the gaps with supplements and food like salmon can help. Please review the diet as well.

[Ems666 in reply to Myncare]

Thank you for your reply.

[Polina44]

Hi,

I am on 6000 iu a day vitamin D, my ferritin rarely is above 11 and my calcium is under range so I take Adcal. I was diagnosed with Lupus in August. I also have hashimotos.

🙂

[Ems666 in reply to Polina44]

Hi polina

Thank you for your reply.

Did it take long for you to get a diagnosis?

Also I have noticed this summer and last summer that being out in the hot weather seems to zap all my energy and makes me feel generally crappy and I worship the sun well use to as winter months make me feel very low.

I've also noticed that when inside the house bright lights seem to irritate my eyes not sure if this has any connection at all.

If you don't mind me asking what are your main symptoms you struggle with?

And does an ana blood test need to be positive before a diagnosis regardless of symptoms?

I've not yet had this blood test done yet just want to no criteria for a diagnosis.

Many thanks emma

[Polina44 in reply to Ems666]

I know that the sun/heat can be a problem and lighting too but not particularly for me. Though this summer the sun seems to zap me. Saying that I'm 40 now with 2 kids and a mental dog so life zaps me!

I basically was diagnosed following a blood test my GP did by chance really. I've been treated for under active thyroid for last 16 years or so and under a specialist for this but still had other symptoms that wouldn't go away such as the ulcers, pains and fatigue which were always attributed to the thyroid problem. Armed with a positive ANA she referred me to a rheumatologist who diagnosed mild SLE so that's where I am now. I only take hydroxychloroquine for the SLE to help with tiredness and ulcers. On 3 monthly bloods.

My white count is right at the bottom too which can be a sign. Different people have different symptoms.

Hope you get some answers soon.

🙃

[Ems666 in reply to Polina44]

Thanks for your post Hun 🙂

[Carolyn1063 in reply to Ems666]

It can sometimes take a while to diagnose Lupus. They usually look at the whole picture - bloods, physical examination & symptoms before coming to a definite diagnosis. Everyone is different & it's quite a complex condition. As the treatment for Lupus can cause other problems, they need to be certain that it is SLE they're dealing with.

Sunlight can cause problems for some people & can bring on a flare up. When I was first diagnosed my consultant advised me to use sun-block if I was going to be in sunlight. I'm not a sun worshiper now - I can't stand the heat any more. I sweat like mad when it's hot, having to change clothes 3/4 times a day & like you it makes me feel yukky & completely drains me.

I've been on Vitamin D, Alendronic Acid & Calcichew for a number of years now. We need sunlight to convert Vitamin D but have to avoid it so need the supplements. Also being on long term steroids can cause low calcium & if it's not replaced can lead to osteoporosis. I have regular bone density scans to monitor this but have no problems so far. I make sure to include food that is rich in calcium too - milk, yoghurts etc.

It can be frustrating waiting for a diagnosis Emma, but keep your chin up & keep in touch on this site - it really does help.

[Author_ink in reply to Carolyn1063]

Do you suffer from memory Loss? My memory is getting worse. Is this a part of lupus?

[Carolyn1063 in reply to Author_ink]

My memory isn't what it used to be - appalling when the fatigue strikes. At other times don't know whether it's the Lupus or just my age ! I leave myself plenty of notes or leave reminders on mobile. I try not to get too anxious about it as that only makes things worse. Take care & keep well

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK in reply to Author_ink]

Hi Author_ink ,

This is often referred to as 'brain fog' and can be a very common symptom of lupus and some other conditions. You can read more about it and find some tips for managing it in our blog article here - lupusuk.org.uk/coping-with-...

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK in reply to Ems666]

Hi Ems666 ,

Many people with lupus are sensitive to UV light from the sun and some do notice a reaction to certain artificial lighting indoors too. Fatigue can be one of the symptoms caused by this reaction. You can read more about this and how to protect yourself in our blog article here - lupusuk.org.uk/coping-with-...

[Author_ink]

I've always had low iron way never knowing I had Lupus. My calcium levels are extremely low. I'm taking a very high milligrams of vitamin D. Thank God for my vitamin D meds. It gives me lots of energy and relieve my nausea.