alegzis

I had gastric bypass in 2014. Has anyone experienced or know someone who has experienced a condition called "Iron deficiency WITHOUT anemia"? It is also sometimes called HWA (Hypoferritinemia without anemia). This is a condition where ferritin is low but hemoglobin, RBC and other related blood markers are normal . I am experiencing chronic worsening symptoms that are identical to iron deficiency anemia (weakness, fatigue, light-headedness, brain fog) but my Hematologist doesn't seem to believe this is a real condition. In other words, since my red blood cell count and hemoglobin are fine, he believes these symptoms are not due to low ferritin. Can anyone recommend a hematologist that has experience with bariatric patients in Maryland?

This is a history of my ferritin levels while taking iron supplements: OCT 2018: 8 (out of range low) NOV 2018: Received Infusion (Injectafer 1000 mg) DEC 2018: 101 (normal range) MAR 2019: 56 (normal range) APR 2019: 48 (normal range) FEB 2020: 20 (out of range low) Red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, etc, were all normal for all of the above tests. For menstruating women this is a more common condition, obviously because of blood loss. However, I am man with no sign of blood 'leakage'. I've had endoscopies, colonoscopies, MRIs, etc. You mention other conditions that can cause HWA -- could you name some?

Thank you MsMocie for your response. I have had one infusion and ferritin levels rose and then fell precipitously even with Iron supplements. Have you experienced the same thing? Do you require regular infusions? Do you know what the "goal" ferritin level is for you after an infusion?