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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Iron Deficiency?

Hi please , in my last blood test I find my iron low they told me is 18 ?? I d ont khnow what they mean with this level ??
And befor this test ,last 7 monthes I have my folic asid low ,and I was tak tablet and is comback
But the question is :how I khnow if I have problem ?!???
Mon, 20 Mar 2017
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hello,
Thanks for trusting Healthcaremagic!
I have gone through your query and I can understand your concerns.

I think 18 is your serum iron level. This is extremely low because normal level is 40-160. It detailed evaluation to find out the cause of this iron deficiency and you have to undergo iron replacement therapy.

I suggest you to consult a general physician and get the following things done:-
1.A complete blood count and peripheral smear to confirm the diagnosis.
2.A serum iron assay and serum ferritin level.
3.We have to do a bone marrow examination to rule out hematological conditions like leukemia which can cause this clinical picture.
4.A stool examination to look for any undetected bleeding through feces.
5.An ultrasound abdomen may be needed to look for any hepatomegaly(enlarged liver).

Iron replacement therapy is essential because your iron level is extremely. Intravenous iron infusion or rarely blood transfusion might be needed to replenish your iron stores.
Try to include more iron rich foods like green leafy vegetables dates in your diet.

Hope I have answered your query.
Wishing you good health.

Regards.
Dr.Shinas Hussain

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What Causes Iron Deficiency?

Hello, Thanks for trusting Healthcaremagic! I have gone through your query and I can understand your concerns. I think 18 is your serum iron level. This is extremely low because normal level is 40-160. It detailed evaluation to find out the cause of this iron deficiency and you have to undergo iron replacement therapy. I suggest you to consult a general physician and get the following things done:- 1.A complete blood count and peripheral smear to confirm the diagnosis. 2.A serum iron assay and serum ferritin level. 3.We have to do a bone marrow examination to rule out hematological conditions like leukemia which can cause this clinical picture. 4.A stool examination to look for any undetected bleeding through feces. 5.An ultrasound abdomen may be needed to look for any hepatomegaly(enlarged liver). Iron replacement therapy is essential because your iron level is extremely. Intravenous iron infusion or rarely blood transfusion might be needed to replenish your iron stores. Try to include more iron rich foods like green leafy vegetables dates in your diet. Hope I have answered your query. Wishing you good health. Regards. Dr.Shinas Hussain