Always fatigued- Anemia?
I've had the following problems for as long as I can remember, and I think that I'm probably mildly anemic. Has anyone else had these symptoms, and did you determine that anemia was the cause?
-fatigue
-feel cold often
-dark circles under eyes
-low blood pressure
-difficulty concentrating
-slightly dizzy when I abruptly stand up
In 2003 I couldn't donate blood because of low hemoglobin count. I ate very little red meat then, and now eat no red meat or poultry.
I've been taking a multivitamin (with Iron, B12, and Folic Acid, and others) lately, but it hasn't helped much. I know that certain foods can inhibit absorption of Iron, so I'll try to avoid eating those in the morning when I take my vitamin.
I'm really sick of feeling this way all the time. Advice?
Yes, I do have heavy periods.
This has been going on for years. If it were my thyroid, would it have developed into a serious problem by now? My symptoms are relatively mild, and they haven't really gotten better or worse with time.
November 16th, 2010 - 18:46
I would go to a doctor. It sounds like it could be a couple of different things.
It could be Iron defecincy anemia from getting No to little iron in your diet and any menstruating woman can develop this easily.
It could be anemia from blood loss if you have heavy periods.
But, anemia will not cause low blood pressure, feeling cold, or dark circles under your eyes. All these symptoms make me think of hypothyroidism. Have you ever heard of "Hashimoto’s Thyroidits?" It sometimes happens in famalies due to gentics. But, I would see a doctor, a simple $20 CBC and $35 thyroid panel will help you figure it out with your doctor.
November 16th, 2010 - 18:46
have u been to a doctor? maybe a visit would clear this up
November 16th, 2010 - 18:46
Well, have you had your thyroid checked? Your first 2 symptoms lead me to ask that. Your thyroid runs your metabolism, so if it is off, it can mimic several disorders. You might have the doc check your TSH levels to make sure they are in check.
Edit: "difficulty concentrating" is a side effect of hypothyroidism also.
Edit #2: Thyroid conditions vary in levels. I didn’t know I had one at all until a doctor accidently discovered that my thryroid was enlarged. ( She was an osteopath that was checking out pain in my neck). After getting on medication, I can really tell if I have missed a few doses. It is like night and day. It is now time for you to quit asking us, and ask the doc. It is a simple blood test and they can tell you in a couple days.