Iron levels normal

[Testthis]

If my iron levels are within range is there any chance taking an iron supplement would be beneficial? I know too much is dangerous. Sorry if answer is obvious, but I'm desperate.

[SueJohnson]

What is your ferritin and transferrin saturation percent (TSAT)? The ferritin is the important one to know for RLS. Doctors will tell you it is normal but what is normal for others is not normal for those of us with RLS. and did you stop taking any iron including in in multivitamins 48nhours before the test, fast after midnight and take the test in the morning? If not the ferritin may be higher than it should be for testing for RLS.

[SueJohnson]

Also please tell us about your condition as you said you are desperate so we can help you. Are you taking any medicines for your RLS or any other medicines or OTC supplements? Also it helps with our answers if you could indicate on your profile what country you live in and your gender.

[Joolsg]

Normal for UK or US general public is NOT normal for RLS.Doctors will tell you bloods are normal if serum ferritin is 15. That's way too low for RLS. Serum iron should be above 60, serum ferritin above 100, preferably 200.

As you've been told results are within normal levels they'll definitely be too low for RLS.

So get a print out of actual numbers and consider joining a FB group called the Iron Protocol. They have files for you to consult.

In the meantime you can take ferrous bisglycinate ( gentle iron) every other night on an empty stomach to see if it helps.

Are you on any medications for RLS?Lots of meds can trigger or worsen the disease and doctors are totally unaware.

List all the meds and doses and we may be able to help.

[pennygates]

Sorry to hear how bad you are feeling. I'm no expert, but following the advice from Joolsg and Sue, I realised my iron levels might be low, although they showed within the normal range too on blood tests.SalemLake suggested I try Gentle iron at night with vitamin C to help it absorb. No caffeine before or after ( see Sue's advice on this for details on how to take it, very important). The first night it worked a little, but not greatly. I increased my dose the next night, after asking for advice. Bingo, it worked. I was really surprised. Now I take it every other night. If it doesn't work, it's usually down to something I have done, like eating afterwards (I'm my own worst enemy at times). I also take magnesium and zinc . (Just dont take it at the same time as iron, two hours apart, see Sue's advice on this ) What have you got to lose by just trying it for a short while? You'll soon know if it helps. It's a godsend to me. Even if rls breaks through it isnt as severe. Hope this helps a bit. Good luck.