Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
What Causes Low Transferrin Levels?
Hi there. I went to see my Internist after my Natropathic Dr. had me test my ferritin level even though my hgb was normal. My hair has been falling out, I am EXAUSTED all of the time...My mind feels numb. I got my result and my ferritin level was 16. My Dr. did not seem to think this was an issue. My thyroid was normal as well. My legs are restless at night, I can t sleep. My Dr wanted to put me on anti-depressant and told me I probably have fibromyalgia which I refuse to accept as a diagnosis considering she spent 15 min with me. She ordered Iron panel.My Iron was low at 32 and transferrin was low at 9. Why is transferrin low? WIth these levels I am iron deficient right? and what iron do I take that causes the least amount of constipation? I have not heard from My Dr yet and want to get started asap as I am just miserable with exhaustion.
Fri, 30 May 2014
Hello and welcome to HCM,
A low transferrin and low serum iron is seen in iron deficiency anemia.
The hemoglobin should also be low if transferrin and iron are low.
The symptoms of restlessness, feeling tired, hair fall etc raise a suspicion of thyroid hormone derangement, however, the thyroid function tests are also normal.
Fibromyalgia is a diagnosis of exclusion i.e. diagnosis made when all other possibilities have been ruled out.
Iron deficiency states are treated with iron sulphate preparation.
You need to consult your doctor for prescription of drugs.
The iron preparation should be taken at night after dinner to avoid gastrointestinal symptoms.
Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja P Wahal
A low transferrin and low serum iron is seen in iron deficiency anemia.
The hemoglobin should also be low if transferrin and iron are low.
The symptoms of restlessness, feeling tired, hair fall etc raise a suspicion of thyroid hormone derangement, however, the thyroid function tests are also normal.
Fibromyalgia is a diagnosis of exclusion i.e. diagnosis made when all other possibilities have been ruled out.
Iron deficiency states are treated with iron sulphate preparation.
You need to consult your doctor for prescription of drugs.
The iron preparation should be taken at night after dinner to avoid gastrointestinal symptoms.
Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja P Wahal
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Blood test
Loading Online Doctors....