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Anemia treatment!!

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Crohn's Disease
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Posted 8/31/2013 1:37 AM (GMT 0)
My Daughter has been plagued with anemia since being diagnosed 7yrs. ago.

She was able to take iron pills for the first few years, but since her Crohn's always gave her constipation, rather than diarreah, she had to stop taking iron all together some time ago.

Our GI and GP are both against iron infusions, but I can't really answer why. We have since started her on a vegetable based iron supplement, but it's too soon to see if it's working, or constipating her.

Our GP called today, and said that she had a patient come in today, (non Crohn's), that has anemia, and also has never been able to tolerate iron. She said that she takes unsulphered blackstrap mollasses. It apparently has the ability to bring iron levels up to at least a reasonable level.

I guess we'll give it a try. Just want to pass it on to anyone else that may benefit from trying this.

 

Posted 8/31/2013 1:57 AM (GMT 0)
There is a small risk of anaphylactic shock with iron infusions, but they can do a test dose, and if your daughter reacts, they can immediately give steroids and benadryl. I have had several different types of iron infusions and I think its the best way to to. The newest iron infusion is called Feraheme, and instead of a 5-6 hour IV, it only takes about an hour. Like your daughter, I get constipated and can't tolerate oral iron, but the infusion makes a huge difference and for me, can last for several months. They believe my anemia is iron deficiency anemia from blood loss, but Crohnnie's can also get anemia of chronic disease. I think your GI should at least explain why he doesn't think the iron infusion is a good idea. When you have significant loss of iron stores (when the ferritin level is very low) it is very difficult to build it back up from food sources. sorry she is going through anemia...it is tough.
Posted 9/1/2013 1:29 AM (GMT 0)
I agree that you should ask the GI to explain his/her reasons.
Posted 9/1/2013 4:26 AM (GMT 0)
Blackstrap molasses is a natural source of iron and I grew up with it in our household. But I hadn't thought about it in a long time. It's an acquired taste, but I always liked it. I'm glad you posted it.
Posted 9/3/2013 3:14 AM (GMT 0)
Hi,

I think I would be asking to see a hematologist.  They are the experts on this.  Many GI's aren't aware of whats available. 

Julia

 

Posted 9/3/2013 1:24 PM (GMT 0)
My personal experience with iron infusions has been great! It's the only thing that gets my iron stores back up to acceptable levels.
Posted 9/5/2013 2:29 PM (GMT 0)
DH has Infed and Venofer infustion and also received the med they give cancer patients to raise counts, none worked. He had an infusion of Feraheme and that acually helped. He did have some reaction to the Infed & Venofer and had to be pre-medicated.
Posted 9/7/2013 2:10 AM (GMT 0)
You should try Iron Picolonate

It is very easy to tolerate and does not constipate

It worked miracles for me (brought my Hemoglobin from 7.5 to over 12 in about 6 weeks)

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