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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Low Ferritin Level While Having Elevated Iron Level?

Hi, I found out last month that my ferritin level was 10.1, with a serum iron level of 93. My dermatologist, who ordered the bloodwork due to my complaints of hair loss, recommended taking iron supplements. She didn t suggest a dose that would be appropriate, so I began taking 22mg of iron daily, as well as lysine.. as I read that it can enhance absorption. My levels were rechecked yesterday, the ferritin is 16, but the serum iron is now 220! Unfortunately, the nurse at the derm s office was not helpful, and couldn t suggest a method for increasing my ferritin, without leading to my circulating iron levels being dangerously high. I won t take any more of the supplements until I see a doctor, but in the meantime, I m wondering what the possible solution could be for this? I m a vegetarian, so I m aware that absorbing nonheme iron is not as effective, so I had figured supplements would probably be my best bet. I m also taking isotretinoin, in my 4th month, with a dose of 60mg a day. I know Accutane can cause hair loss, however, since I ve had issues with this in the past, it s a sensitive issue for me, that is probably more distressing than it would be for most other 24 year old women. Thanks
Fri, 29 Apr 2016
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello ,
Welcome to healthcaremagic.com and thanks for sharing your concern with us.
Ferritin level is normal . AS IRON LEVELS WERE NORMAL BEFORE AND HAS INCREASED RECENTLY SOI YOU DON'T NEED ANY FURTHER IRON SUPPLEMENT . If hemoglobin levels are in norm then don't give any further attention to iron levels . But if hemoglobin levels are low then get checked further for hemolytic anemia also.
I would recommend you to have a healthy diet full of vegetables and fruits . Exercise regularly and sleep 7 hour daily.
Your hair loss issue is more related with accutane as it is a side effect of this medicine .
Follow these:
1. never use vitamin A supplement when you are on accutane
2. Get checked for levels of vitamin B , Folic acid . If you are low in these vitamin then can start supplement but it should not contain vitaminA.
3. INCLUDE AVOCADO , OMEGA 3, ALMONDS , BROCCOLI in your diet.
4. If you have any sign in form of decrease appetite , fatigue then it might be due to hormonal imbalance which is again a side effect of accutane and you should consult with your GP.
5.Exercise regularly
6. include yoga , breathing exercise daily in your schedule.

Best Regards,
Dr.S.Tomar
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What Causes Low Ferritin Level While Having Elevated Iron Level?

Hello , Welcome to healthcaremagic.com and thanks for sharing your concern with us. Ferritin level is normal . AS IRON LEVELS WERE NORMAL BEFORE AND HAS INCREASED RECENTLY SOI YOU DON T NEED ANY FURTHER IRON SUPPLEMENT . If hemoglobin levels are in norm then don t give any further attention to iron levels . But if hemoglobin levels are low then get checked further for hemolytic anemia also. I would recommend you to have a healthy diet full of vegetables and fruits . Exercise regularly and sleep 7 hour daily. Your hair loss issue is more related with accutane as it is a side effect of this medicine . Follow these: 1. never use vitamin A supplement when you are on accutane 2. Get checked for levels of vitamin B , Folic acid . If you are low in these vitamin then can start supplement but it should not contain vitaminA. 3. INCLUDE AVOCADO , OMEGA 3, ALMONDS , BROCCOLI in your diet. 4. If you have any sign in form of decrease appetite , fatigue then it might be due to hormonal imbalance which is again a side effect of accutane and you should consult with your GP. 5.Exercise regularly 6. include yoga , breathing exercise daily in your schedule. Best Regards, Dr.S.Tomar