Iron specific anemia symptoms

[Roo32]

I recently had my b12 loading doses and my understanding is that an iron test can test falsely high, or rather iron levels can suddenly become depleted after a b12 deficiency is rectified. I am developing what looks like bruising around my eyes without having any accidents recently which would account for that. The internet suggests iron deficiency as a cause. I’m wondering if there are any other anemia symptoms which I could check for which wouldn’t be due to a deficiency in b12 or folate, both of which I am under treatment for. The bruising has developed since treatment. Since I anticipate my doctor does not know about the need to retest iron after b12 replenishing, I’m wanting to make sure this is a likely cause before kicking up a fuss.

[Hesterbear]

I have P A and also have suffered from iron deficiency. Before diagnosis of iron anaemia I had very pale gums,I was breathless and extremely tired.i have a strange feeling that I am anaemic again as I am having symptoms .Its interesting to read your post about false iron readings whilst on b12

[Roo32 in reply to Hesterbear]

Thank for your response.. I’m now staring at my gums and trying to decide if they’ve always been this pale. They’re definitely much paler near my teeth.

I can’t recall where I read it but it was an academic article. The idea was that available iron was not successfully utilised until b12 had been supplemented at which point it was quickly used and then would test low.

[sbadd in reply to Roo32]

Breathlessness, increased heart rate, fatigue, my serum iron dropped after loading doses

[fbirder]

Having high levels of B12 cannot alter the result of an iron blood test.

Starting B12 injections if you had severe macrocytic anaemia beforehand may reduce iron levels slightly for a few weeks. If you were already iron deficient then this may tip it over so that more symptoms arise. If you have PA then your ability to absorb iron may be diminished.

See the doc and ask for a full set of blood tests to measure your iron status.

[Roo32 in reply to fbirder]

Ok, thanks. I had blood work done before treatment and have seen the results and my iron was fine at that time. So I’m your view I should presume this is not the cause?

[fbirder in reply to Roo32]

It doesn't sound like it is, but I would still see the doc.