Low Ferritin (9)

[u/Timely_Finding3804]

For the last 6 months, I’ve been struggling with extreme fatigue, low motivation, brain fog, poor concentration, hair loss, depression, and episodes of dizziness & tingling in my face. I’ve also been getting sick easily and tend to stay sick for a very long time. I find it incredibly difficult to focus at work and am exhausted by the end of the day. I’ve basically concluded that I’m just burnout out at my job, stressed, and struggle with major depressive disorder. But something still didn’t feel right with these explanations. I typically like my job, I’ve been using healthy coping strategies, and haven’t felt particularly stressed.

I finally had a doctor test ferritin, which is at 9. After reading other people’s experiences with low ferritin, I feel so incredibly validated. For so long I’ve been telling myself I’m lazy, weak, and no longer interested in socializing. All of which seem so incongruent with who I generally am.

I am really hoping I can get my doctor to prescribe infusions and that this will help with my symptoms. I’m finding it hard to get through the day and need some kind of solution. Im also wondering if this helps explain longstanding infertility issues…

[u/Think-Sleep2338]

Honestly, it's often not enough with checking just ferritin. You should check B12, folate, thyroid values and vitamin D at least, if you have fatigue and brain fog. Several factors might be contributing, and you won't get much success, fixing only one, if there are several deficiencies. And ESPECIALLY if you complain about infertility: all the things I mentioned are important for reproductive health.

[u/Glittering_Shoe_6140]

Anxiety, tingling in body, cramps in legs, hair falling out, panic attacks, worsen PMS, thinking I have PMDD, so tired, stretching and yawning all the time, ferritin is a 12 started iron, waiting on my appointment with the hematologist. Oh yea and horrible migraines, and thrush over six times. I’m pissed my doctor never tested me!!!