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Iron infusions?



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My GI just stated to EXPECT Iron infusions after 10 years or so. I'm pre-op and was wondering if that is just his opinion/expectation or the reality of long term WLS?

Anyone else being told just to expect this?

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I don't understand your question. It seems like you are saying that your gynecologist (or gastroenterologist) believe that you will need supplements of Iron via intravenous needles after about 10 years. I am 28 months post-op and this is the first time I have heard about this.

RNY gastric bypass surgery cuts out the part of the stomach that converts foods into Vitamins and as a result, anyone who undergoes this surgery must take Vitamin supplements for the rest of their life. These are normally in the form of Vitamin pills.

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Yes that's what I'm asking... My stomach doc is saying that despite routine Vitamins I should just expect to have iv Iron for the rest of my life. Was he just trying to cover the bases /scare me or is that a reality? I am not anemic now preop...

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My friend and his sister had bypass 15 yrs ago. My friend said he has been doing fine. His sister however has had difficulty with Iron levels, BUT she also had 3 babies AFTER bypass. She has had trouble with retaining Iron and had had several blood transfusions and is now on 3 pills of iron per day. She had not been to the Dr for regular checkups.

If you get your H&H or CBC checked often by your surgeon or primary care physician, these problems can be prevented because if levels drop, they can fix it early enough.

Edited by Dream4tc

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at 18 months out I just got a 16 course of Iron infusion. prescribed from a doctor in Mexico city. US doctor never approved but my fatigue is ridiculous. I saw a little improvement on energy levels, did my blood work and waiting to see if there is positive change

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Yes that's what I'm asking... My stomach doc is saying that despite routine Vitamins I should just expect to have iv Iron for the rest of my life. Was he just trying to cover the bases /scare me or is that a reality? I am not anemic now preop...

Good question, my surgeon told me despite iron supplements about 50% of post-op people require iron infusions. Don't worry about it, he was just informing you of the possibility.

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