Doctor's Initial Dismissal of Symptoms Highlights Iron Deficiency in Women
Rose Stokes, a freelance journalist and mother of two, experienced severe exhaustion, hair loss, and dizziness after the birth of her second child. Despite multiple visits to her doctor, her symptoms were initially dismissed as typical for a mother of young children. Eventually, a blood test revealed low ferritin levels, leading to a diagnosis of iron deficiency. This condition is relatively common, affecting about 8% of women, often exacerbated by pregnancy. Stokes initially tried iron tablets, which are the standard treatment, but they did not agree with her. She was later referred for an iron infusion, which can be transformative for those with severe deficiency. Dr. Sue Pavord, a consultant haematologist, advises that iron tablets should be taken on an empty stomach with water or Vitamin C for effectiveness. Dietary changes, including consuming iron-rich foods like red meat and leafy greens, can also help manage iron levels. 
