anyone on iron tablets

[Bernadette100]

I have take one iron tablet a day since my IL nine years ago but a new Dr wont repeat the prescription says I am not anaemic. I thought I would be on them for lifetime. anyone else take prescribed iron tablets

[haward]

I use Floradix after a blood test showed I was low in iron. Orla Hynes, a dietician, advised us at an OPA meeting to be aware of possible iron zinc B12 and D deficiencies after the op. I haven't asked for mine on prescription. I suspect we're entitled to it but the NHS seems to be cutting back fiercely on these treatments

[Bernadette100 in reply to haward]

you are right I can buy my own. As long as I have vitB12 injections every 12 weeks

[Lara5]

Hi often Drs won't give you things but I find the consultant overrides and says I need something, although I'm still on follow up at the hospital. I'm on Ferrous Fumarate syrup, was put on it a year ago as ferratin levels were very low although GP didn't put me on it, my Rheumatologist did, saying it was very low and I should have it prescribed. I was on it 3 times a day but now as my levels have improved she still said I should keep on it for a maintenance dose. My IL was nearly 3 years ago and since have had malnutrition and lots of deficiencies but do have other conditions which complicates things. I also require B12. Its always the hospital and surgeon that suggests I need things, rarely the GP.

[DaveChuter]

Hi,

I take a multivitamin which includes iron, these are on prescription originally by my dietician by now by GP. Ask your GP to take annual blood test so levels can be watched.

My iron levels were low but within acceptable range, it was my ability to store iron that was an issue.

Zinc and Vitamin D were also low, this only showed up at 8 years out and levels are stable now but do have bloods checked annually by GP for peace of mind.

Kind regards, Dave C

[grayj]

I was on prescribed liquid iron for at least a couple of years .i,ve suffered with low energy levels since my eospegectomy 5 1/2years ago. After my last blood test G P said I didn't need to take it any more as my levels were ok. after a chat with a dietician last year ,I now take a supermarket multi-vitamin with iron.my energy levels seem to be the best since op.I also take a magnesium supplement, after reading post on this site regarding depletion whilst taking PPI,s. It all seems like trial and error. Bloods can sometimes by in acceptable levels but you know something isn't right

[Bernadette100 in reply to grayj]

thanks for that. Steve on this site said his wife has magnesium spray on her thigh to boost energy so I am giving that a go.

[Hidden]

It might just depend on how much of your stomach has been removed in the original surgery. Some people do suffer a lot more than others from iron deficiency. You do need to keep an eye on it, but if the tests have shown that you have good level of vitamins and minerals at the moment that is a good thing. I would feel inclined to suggest a check in a few weeks time. After all, the reason why you are not anaemic might be because you have been taking iron tablets. If the levels have dropped, you may have to resume the tablets.

It can be tricky to boost levels if you get low because your system might not absorb medication and nutrients as efficiently as a normal person (and likewise sometimes medication might be better in liquid form to be absorbed more rapidly), so it is best to be on the cautious side with this sort of thing.

[Bernadette100]

A Dr. is ringing me tuesday Alan to discuss this but I pointed out to the secretary I am probably not anaemic because I am taking iron tablets and they are doing their job after all you dont stop blood pressure medication because your BP is normal it just means your medication is working. I dont think she read my history. BTW at least 50% of stomach taken away

[david001]

Hi Bernadette

GPs check your iron levels in your blood on a regular basis post op as one common side-effect of the IL op is iron and B12 deficiency. They should be checking not only Hb iron levels but also ferritin, which are your body's iron reserves. Symptoms might include feeling tired.

Typical supplements include iron sulphate or iron fumarate. Both are free to cancer patients on prescription but can be bought over the counter fairly cheaply either as iron or multivitamin. There are some easy absorb tabs available and syrups such as Sytron which can also be obtained on prescription. B12 is sometimes given as an injection.

Your GP will be in the best position to judge whether you continue to be anaemic and if they have just taken you off, I am sure they will check to make sure your absorption rate continues to hold.

Good luck