QuestionI have suffered with anemia as a result of fibroids for over 14 years. Within the past two years, I've been able to keep my hemoglobin at 10 or above. Most recently it was 11.5. However, my ferritin stays low - 9-11. In January, I noticed that I was making more frequent trips to the bathroom. After a week of losing lots of water, I awoke one night and had a syncope episode after urinating. Since that time, water just runs right through me. If I drink too much water at night, or do not eat as late as possible, I will have a near syncope episode. My body seems to have trouble managing going from a horizontal to vertical position. Bending over during the day makes me feel uneasy as well. The syncope episodes are accompanied by a burning sensation in the center of my chest. I've been to the ER twice, and my EKGs were "textbook", according to the physicians. My latest labs were: White cell - 6.3, Red Cell - 3.63, Hemoglobin - 11.5, Hematocrit - 34.2, Platelet count - 271, Sodium - 136, Blood Urea Nitrogen - 6, Ferritin - 11.8, Iron - 23, Iron binding capacity - 402, Hemoglobin A1C 4.8. My internal medicine doctor wants me to see an endocrinologist. I'm thinking that a hematologist might be the answer. I'm tired of running to the bathroom and feeling off balance. My periods are now under control, so I know that hemorraging is not the issue.
AnswerPlease be aware that the information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be interpreted as medical advice. This information is being provided for informational purposes only. Your own physician is the best resource to interpret your specific laboratory results and should be consulted for medical advice regarding your own specific health condition.What were your MCV, MCH, and MCHC values? Was a manual differential done along with the CBC? If so, what were the results?
A Hgb of 11.5 is on the low end of normal, and iron deficiency anemia can cause lightheadedness.
What are you taking for the iron deficiency anemia?
Have you had a CMP (complete metabolic panel)? If so, were any results out of range?
A CBC and a CMP are often run as part of an annual physical and if anything is wrong it is likely to show up in one of those 2 tests.
Are you on any medications? Some medications can cause vasovagal syncope. Are you taking a diuretic?
You may want to get a referral to a cardiologist and describe these symptoms to the cardiologist and also mention your anemia, and also mention any medications Rx or non Rx at the time of the visit.
If after testing a cardiologist rules out heart problems, depending on the size, number and location of the fibroids, since you have a history of iron deficiency anemia, have you considered a myomectomy or discussed other treatment for fibroids with your ob/gyn?
http://www.emedicinehealth.com/uterine_fibroids/page10_em.htm
