Anemia symptoms

[Kefir]

I have had RA for 8 years recently I have had my bloods done 3 times and have just had to book another appointment to get my bloods done again as my red blood count is not what it should be I have also been feeling unwell lately I have been on methotrexate for 8 years as well as sulfsalazine can anyone relate as I don’t like feeling off.

[Madmusiclover]

I can’t comment on the drugs but looking back anaemia was the red light I had R.A. I’ve taken Floradix iron tabs ever since and I’m now ok for iron (but have pernicious anemia mildly)

[Bethany02]

It could be that your too immunosuppressed the mtx is doing its job too well and your blood counts are down you will have reduced immunity from infection they may stop your med for a while

[bpeal1 in reply to Bethany02]

That would be more likely if the white cell count was too low rather than red cells. Red blood cells are not involved in immune responses.

[Bethany02 in reply to bpeal1]

Just read blood counts low not red blood cells sorry

[Bethany02]

Just read blood counts low not red blood cells sorry

[helenlw7]

I was diagnosed in 2004 and have my bloods done every two to three months. I’ve been on mtx and etanercept for over 10 years. I’ve been a little unwell for a while but nothing I could really put my finger on. I’ve had regular blood tests and at the last test it was found my crp was very high and also my liver results weren’t good. Also my red blood cells were big. Still investigating but so far they’ve picked up that I have fatty liver disease and a vitamin B12 deficiency. My next blood test will be for, coeliac disease and pernicious anaemia. Apart from feeling tired I feel fine so it’s definitely worth having regular blood tests!

[Ritaritis]

Good afternoon Kefir I was treated for anemia when I got my RA diagnosis. I had a course of tablets and then told to increase my iron intake. Drinking Guinness was also suggested!! (Met my sister in the supermarket, not told her about the RA, the look she gave me when I put several bottles of Guinness in my trolley and said they were for me was priceless. I'm single) Holland & Barrett have a range of supplements/tablets that may help, they do for me.🦄🐕

[Shonkie]

While not claiming any medical knowledge at all, my rheumy, when i pointed out that my blood test showed anaemia, said that it often goes with RA due to problems with the bone marrow not producing enough red blood cells. He did not seem to feel it was a problem for me at least.