Think I am anaemic

[giraffesCantDanceInBrokenHeels]

Have heavy periods (have seen Dr for this many times and have tranexamic acid) and am a vegetarian. Have been anaemic in past.

Feel exhausted and this morning when got up was quite dizzy, not just on standing up but for a wee bit after. Plus have noticed cuts taking ages to heal up.

Can I just take normal otc iron tabs or do I need to see GP? Are the tabs different?

Iron tablets take at least 30 days to have an effect and are quite an inefficient way of taking iron. Spatone is quite good and palatable in orange juice. Do you drink a lot of coffee/tea. I was drinking these with most meals not realising it prevents you absorbing (among other things) iron.

If your anaemia is caused by periods the answer may be to stop those periods. If you have completed your family would something like a Mirena coil be a good choice for you?

If you are anaemic you need to find out so you should see your doctor and have a blood test.

I was anaemic last year, had iron tablets. Levels finally went up but after I stopped them, my levels continuously dropped and it appears that my body isn't storing iron and that needs to be looked at. Its always best to go to the doctors for these things.

I had my 3 month blood tests for my ferritin levels last week and they were the same - 7 - as 3 months previously despite the fact that I was taking Spatone and something else the doc had given me to take every day as I can't stomach tablets.

I am having an endometrial ablation next month. This is an operation to remove the lining of the womb so that your periods are much lighter or disappear. This is the only way I am going to feel any better every month. I am hoping for more energy after the op.

Pop into your local Llyods pharmacy and have a blood sugar test done.