Zinc level blood test

[Staffy1]

Hi, has anyone had this done for their DC on NHS?

[TwinkleRedMoon]

I can't get the NHS to do a blood test on my ds. I have asked four times.

[Staffy1]

Thanks for replying, TwinkleRedMoon. Is this for any blood test or zinc deficiency? We had a few done, because a consultant asked them to do it, but they claim they can't do the zinc test unless it's requested by a consultant. I think GPs have become more and more useless over the years, I'm not sure what exactly they do any more, can't seem to do even the most basic things on their own even when there is cause to do them.

[TwinkleRedMoon]

Hi, sorry I should have said not a test for zinc deficiency just a basic blood test because ds eats a very restricted diet. I don't understand why they won't do it. I suppose it is because any reasons I give are not enough. I hope you can find a way of getting the testing done for zinc. Good luck

[Staffy1]

Thanks, good luck to you too. I don't understand their reluctance to do them when there is good reason and it could help make our children better. So sick of having to fight for everything and hitting brick walls.

[CherylDbb]

Hope you excuse my ignorance on this....why would someone be short of zinc? And how could it affect them?

[Staffy1]

It can cause poor cognitive function and memory and slow wound healing, hair loss, and other things I can't remember off hand, but can be googled. People with poor absorption from digestive problems may be short in zinc, or I suppose, restricted diets. Also it's apparently quite common in autistic people and people with ADHD. Found out the other day, they did actually do the test but it took longer than the other blood tests as it went to another lab, and it was right in the middle of range.