Cancer scare

[PigeonPairinSomerset]

Am shitting myself. Sister recently diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. I had GD so higher risk. Asked doctor to check. Comes back normal but other bloods look off. Had another blood test - main dodgy results are Hb of 106 and ferritin level of 8.
Suggests iron deficiency anaemia. But as periods are not heavy and iron is particularly low, also could be unexplained GI bleeding.
Have gone from worrying about potential Type 2 diabetes to now being screened for cancer. I’ve got to have a colonoscopy and a gastroscopy in a couple of weeks.
I know the chances of them finding anything are low and they’re being cautious, but this is still a really scary development. Anyone else been on this pathway?

I wouldn’t worry too much yet OP, not exactly the same but I’ve had very low iron before unexplained and it turned out I am just prone to iron deficiency - no obvious medical cause or anything serious to worry about. Hopefully it’s nothing serious for you either!

Thank you. I know you’re right and I should try not to worry. How low was your iron? Did you have any side effects? I’ve had none other than extreme tiredness and thinning hair - I put that down to being a mother of two young children and probably pre menopausal! 🤣

Do you have GI bleeding?

I don’t know yet. My endoscopy appointment is in a couple of weeks…

I think if you had GI bleeding you’d know about it particularly if it’s enough to cause low ferritin. I have GI bleeding and it’s VERY obvious. It sounds like they’re just being thorough to me.

That’s reassuring. The GP said she was being cautious but you can’t help worry when you see “cancer pathway” written all over your paperwork! I hope you’re doing OK.

Same here. Went to GP for a gynae thing. Dr ordered full blood test which showed rock bottom ferritin. GP hasn't referred for endoscopy or anything though. She wanted me to provide a stool sample but I haven't done that yet.
I've been taking iron tablets since getting the results.