March 8 I was admitted to hospital for blood transfusion as hemoglobin was 5.7. After 3 pints of blood, I was released at 9.5. I was advised due to my continuing heavy periods and multiple fibroids, biggest at 6.3cm, I would need to be referred for hysterectomy. I am presently taking prescribed ferrous sulfate 325mg 2x day in addition to prenatal vitamins as extra vitamin coverage with orange juice to help the absorption. In addition I have altered my diet to increase my iron intake through food. Before getting a lupron shot I had started my cycle and the day of the lupron shot my hemoglobin was 10.1. Aside from providing a sample to the lab, is there any way to know how well the increased iron is helping to raise my hemoglobin? Dr will not do the surgery if hemoglobin is below 11 and I am scheduled for surgery in 3 weeks time. Thank you.
Hello, I understand your concern. I am Chat Doctor, infectious diseases specialist, answering your query. You can judge your hemoglobin via mucosal examination, but this examination gives only rough idea. Examination of tongue, conjunctiva and nail can help understand bodies hemoglobin content roughly. If you are going for surgery it is better that you should periodically examine the blood hemoglobin by laboratory since visual examination is very gross method. I will be happy to answer your further concern, you can ask me on bit.ly/ Chat Doctor.  Thank you. ChatDoctorInfectious diseases specialist.