Had to go to my GP after blood pressure tests showed high reading during My last infusion. The dr decided to do some blood tests. One was repeated twice and showed that I was severely anaemic. Other tests have been ok. He thinks that it is the sulphasalaziene causing it as it is one of the side effects. He has now put me on medication to correct it and I have to go back in January for another blood tests to check I am now absorbing the iron. I am feeling heaps better and find I can do a little more without being so tired. I still have to pace myself. On another note my fingers have started spreading and the physio has given my a contraption to wear in bed. Problem is I cannot get used to and my arm from elbow to hand is immobilized with it. Hey no, the joys of RA.
Sulphasalaziene : Had to go to my GP after blood... - NRAS
Sulphasalaziene
Ellieellie; It is not necessarily the medication making you anaemic. RA is associated with anaemic because your bone marrow is so busy producing inflammatory cells that it has less than normal capacity, i.e, less spare, to build red blood cells as well. Excess iron will not help if you are not deficient but is positively dangerous, being associated with heart attacks for one thing! The anaemia should cure itself when your inflammation is properly controlled. In my case it improved within 2-3 weeks of starting biological therapy. Good luck.
I am only going by what my Dr has said.
Okay, I'm not arguing, just passing on my knowledge and experience. Plus what my rheumatologist told me. Hope it helps in any case?
That's exactly what you should do Ellie, listen to your GP's advice. He/she has access to your medical history and is qualified to advise and treat you.
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Few more 'anaemia (from chronic illness)' thoughts shared here, Ellieellie: Supplements/ Nutrients (B12, Vit. D, Potassium, Protein . . . ) for RAers/ Autoimmuners & Plant-Based Dieters (Vegans, Vegetarians, . . . ): healthunlocked.com/cure-art....
[Of course, you'd work hand in hand 🤝 with your medical team 👩⚕️👨⚕️ (thoroughly assessing all ideas/ options) before doing anything 😯 . ]
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If you like research 🕵️♀️ 🔎 , here's "anaemia of chronic illness" search results: scholar.google.com/scholar?...
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Wishing you the very best, Ellieellie. 🙏 🌺 🍀 🌞
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Hi Ellieellie
Hawker is right, see info link on free and bound iron.
dailymail.co.uk/health/arti...
Hope that helps. 
Thank you. I have read the article you attached. I understand what it is saying. Before my Dr prescribed it I had at least 10 samples of blood taken checking for various things. As I am not qualified as a dr I have to go by what he says. I go back in January for further blood tests and then discuss further treatment if it is necessary .
Naturally, we respect our GP/consultant advice.
I am concerned about the iron they never test for, interesting article!
It’s obvious you are feeling the benefit from following the advice of your doctor. Hope it continues, for it is just awful to feel miserable with RA.
Update on appointment with rheumy on Tuesday this week
Nerve pains in legs, feels like bees in my knees , legs and sometimes arms.
Is it down to cost or how server you have RA.
New to rheumatoid arthritis area - advice on process for first steps please.
