Suggest Treatment For Severe Fatigue While Having Anemia

Posted on Fri, 25 Nov 2016

Question: my daughter sleeps a lot and went to give blood but was told she has low iron. She went to give blood and was denied for this reason. Would this have anything to do with her sleeping issue. She is someone that does not wake to an alarm or by just saying "wake up" She is 16

Answered by Dr. Robert Galamaga (26 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Considerations

Detailed Answer:
hello and thank you for sending the question.

It is possible that her low iron level could be contributing to some degree of her sleepiness. A low iron level can lead to anemia which classically will cause generalized fatigue.

at this point since it appears she may have anemia I think it would be a very good idea for you to visit with her primary care physician for further laboratory testing. If she indeed does have anemia then supplementation with an oral iron tablet can lead to gradual improvement of symptoms.

The most common cause of iron deficiency anemia in her age group is menstrual bleeding. Oral iron supplementation will often help to correct the underlying anemia.

again at this point I think it would be prudent to visit with her doctor to have comprehensive blood testing done and to also consider an iron supplement.

Thanks again for sending the question.

Sincerely,

Dr. Galamaga

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