*smacks forehead* So THAT's why I've been feeling utterly washed out for months...

[ChocAuVin]

...Why did I not remember that I've been diagnosed as anaemic in the past and was prescribed iron by my GP a few years ago?

After months of low-level constant 'blah' and incessant hankering after naps, it occurred to me in a dream (I kid you not!) that it could be low iron behind the lethargy again.

Not only do I have history of anaemia (d'oh), I also have very heavy periods due to cooper coil (which is otherwise great).

Rather than wait for a doctor's appointment, I got myself a couple of different types of OTC iron tablets and have alternated them on a daily basis for nearly two weeks - and shock, gasp - I feel fantastic again! Sigh... so I'm posting this as a PSA, just in case anyone else is in the same boat.

:)

Oh good! So nice to be able to work it out and crack on with some iron pills and feel great again. Good for you.

Thanks Cauliflower. I'm delighted.

I believe chocolate raisins are very good for raising iron levels (& keeping your bowels going).

My haemoglobin had dropped to 8 a few months ago and I had no idea! Just thought I was tired and breathless because I'm old and unfit!

Routine blood check revealed the severe anaemia and since I've been taking 3 iron tablets a day I feel like a new woman.

Amazing what a difference it makes

Hmm. Also been knackered, and have (for no apparent reason) been having mid cycle bleeds for 4-5 mo. Wonder if that's made me a bit anaemic too.

Mainly I'm taking fusspot 's permission to self medicate with chocolate raisins. Thanks again mumsnet!

Glad you feel better OP.

Seriously - worth getting checked.

Like Sarky, I was getting breathless walking up two flights of stairs yet I cycle 6 miles a day and have always been pretty fit! Hope this helps someone else - it has been a revelation for me (and from googling it's usually women of childbearing age who are prone.