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[jorainbow]

Hi all! Anyone savvy with ferritin levels? Had them tested a couple of weeks ago after a lengthy period and told all OK. Had my health check today so I asked for the figure which was 15 in a range of 10 to 180. Thinking some gentle iron might be of benefit?

[sheila99]

I believe ferratin is one of those things that the nhs says 'within normal range' but you still lousy. Worth a try imo but do bear in mind that too much can have a negative effect too.

[juwi]

15 is very low to be honest - look up Iron Deficiency Aneamia and it will explain the effects of low ferritin. Don’t let them fob you off by saying that it’s within limits, do your own research and either supplement with iron supplements (which will take a long time) or try and see if your can get an iron infusion. I had infusions when my ferritin was around 16, not on the NHS, mind you.

[Shannonplussed]

When my ferritin was 11 (so within range and not flagged!), my doctor prescribed ferrous fumarate tablets, taken every second day. Research shows slightly better absorption when taken every other day, because of liver binding globulin or something, plus it’s easier to manage when you don’t have to take it every single day (with vitamin C, away from dairy, caffeine, and other medications).

I’m a blood donor and I have restless legs syndrome so I ask for my ferritin to be checked when getting any blood work. The highest I’ve seen it for me is 45.

[pepperminty]

Hi ,

I was told to aim for around 80 , but I have never got there !  15 is way too low.  Tell your Gp  if you feel crap or tired and would like some ferrous fumerate to take. As you are only just above the minimum level .

Pmxx

[jorainbow]

Thanks all I've just picked these messages up! I'm on day 8 of another period and frankly feel pretty crap. Exhausted, a bit of dizziness, breathless (lateral flow tests all clear) Time for a Dr's call I think.

[pepperminty]

Poor you, no wonder you feel so tired. You thought the Gp woud have a bit of common sense about ranges as a couple of points off the lower scale would indicate that you are deficent. The iron you buy over the counter would not be enough to make much if any of a difference.

I hope you get some releif soon

PMXX

[jorainbow]

Just called. Told me it was OK to be at that level and I could take some over the counter iron with vitamin C. I should be taking the HRT (not started as frankly been feeling hormonally on top form) as that will regulate my periods which has arrived spot on time this month and though longer is lighter than usual. Ended with saying if I got breathless or tired I should call back. I reminded him that I had been referred for an xray and heart monitor for those very things and since they came back clear, nothing had been done. Said I could have the mirena coil for the heavy bleeding and to check in next month. Do they know what they are talking about?

[arc73]

I've struggled with low ferritin most of my adult life, as has my Mum. I have restless legs, thinning hair and occasionally feel like I have run out of oomph/fuzzy head. Spatone sachets seem to help me without making me constipated - they are currently on special offer in Boots too. I also take Ferroglobin liquid as it has plenty of B vitamins too

[Billycures]

Hi I have struggled with low ferritin, lowest was 6, my hair was falling out and I felt blank when had my periods. You can buy over the counter ferrous fumerate or ferrous sulphate. I have read about taking a tablet every other day is as effective as taking it three times a day as there is only so much iron your bowels can absorb. Try and take it with orange juice. Tannins in tea can reduce iron absorption so I cut that out. Try not to have dairy at the same time as eating iron rich food as that reduce absorption. Hope this helps

[jorainbow]

Thank you both!!!!!