Iron tablets change of symptoms constipated with stomach cramps and acid reflux to sludgy poo four times a day

[Woeismethischristmas]

Hate iron tablets always made me constipated so started taking them three weeks ago with lactulose. Initially made poo dark green and I was constipated but now just doing lots of sludgy pools bit like diarrea but not watery or explosive. Obviously stoped taking la ctulose. Not sure whyI'm anemic. Is a change in side effects common or does it point to something gastrointestinal which would explain anemia

Have the doctor's not investigated why you are anemic? The first thing they generally look at is periods and this was the problem for me. How is your diet?

It could just be the lactulose causing the issue and your body needs a bit of time to regulate itself again. If your iron tablets are making you constipated, then you can go back to the GP and try others that aren't so bad. I found taking a probiotic helped me when I needed to take them.

Don't take them with lactulose. Instead reduce the number of iron pills you take per day.

For example if you are taking 3 iron pills a day and they are giving you the runs and constipation then take try taking two. If that is still causing you issues take one just before bed time then when your stomach and bowels are more settled go up to two. Then increase to three or decrease to two depending on your bowel movements.

Which iron tablets are you taking?

Ferrous fumerate. I've stopped taking the lactulose a week ago. Periods aren't heavy and diet is good so unsure why I'm anemic.I was a big caffeine fan though but have cut that out completely. GP did a test to check for blood in stool but as I haven't heard back I assume it's negative they call for bad news.

Try a liquid iron supplement maybe? I used spatone combined with berocca and really improved my iron levels quite quickly. Its easier for the body to absorb.