Anaemia exacerbating schizo affective disorder

[tierraJ]

Just that really.

My meds (anti depressants & anti psychotics) usually work & im a fairly relaxed person.

But since nearly 2 weeks ago had some breakthrough psychotic symptoms, low mood & irritability.

A blood test showed anaemia so I've been prescribed iron tablets 3x a day.

The CPN thinks my mental symptoms may improve with the iron as anaemia can affect the way meds work & my mood.

Physically I feel unwell- shaky dizzy & faint so I'm signed off work until mid next week.

Is the CPN on the right track?

Yes, my iron effects my anxiety hugely. What is your ferritin level? I had iv iron as it boosts it within 4 weeks as it can take many months on the tablets to pick up.
There’s quite a lot online about how to absorb more iron from your foods and foods that you should avoid 2 hours before or after your tablet (tea being one)

Not sure what my blood results were. I don't think my HB is incredibly low but I'm just very symptomatic.
I remember getting anaemia years ago due to heavy periods, my HB was 96 which is not very low but I felt faint all the time. I don't remember if it affected me mentally. I took iron tablets then.

I was surprised to be anaemic now as I take Cerazette so don't have periods at present... but I have been dieting.
I didn't eat eggs, green veg, or red meat & rarely ate chicken or fish so I've started eating cold sliced beef every day. Yesterday I also started eating eggs & I'm going to buy some leafy green veg.

My Hb was 100 but my ferritin was 5, I felt awful. Iron from meat is easiest absorbed. I got mine up after having my son with steak and spinach! Good luck hope you feel better soon

Thanks