Iron infusions?

[Erron1970 11]

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?

[James Marusek 5,244]

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.

[Erron1970 11]

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...

[Dream4tc 192]

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 September 22, 2015 by Dream4tc

[KALINY 10]

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

[Trayjay33 138]

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.