$Unique_ID{BRK00982}
$Pretitle{Blood and Blood Forming Organs}
$Title{Are Iron Pills Enough Medicine for Anemia Due to Blood Loss?}
$Subject{anemia iron hemoglobin}
$Volume{D-7}
$Log{
Figure 1*0009201.scf
Figure 2*0009202.scf
Figure 3*0009203.scf
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Figure 5*0009205.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Are Iron Pills Enough Medicine for Anemia Due to Blood Loss?


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QUESTION:  After feeling listless for some time, and tired of being told how
pale I looked, a visit to the doctor revealed an anemia due to blood loss
during my monthlys.  I have a prescription for iron pills, but wonder if this
is enough medicine?  Can you please comment?

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ANSWER:  It certainly will do the job, if the diagnosis is correct, and I have
no reason to doubt a finding of iron deficiency anemia in a women with
excessive blood loss during her periods.  In fact that is the most common
cause of this finding.  In men and postmenopausal women, the most common cause
is bleeding in the stomach and intestines.  A complete blood count, including
hemoglobin testing and blood smears, coupled with a test for blood in the
stool is usually sufficient to make a diagnosis, although additional tests may
be necessary in some cases.  Capsules of ferrous sulphate should be enough to
replenish your iron stores in about three to four months, but your hemoglobin
will be close to normal before that, and your listlessness will disappear.  It
will be necessary for a few more blood tests to be taken as you continue your
medication, as the results obtained will mark your progress and prove that the
iron preparation you have been given is being properly absorbed by your body.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
