Download FREE Practo app
Get ₹200 HealthCash
Low ferritin but normal hb
I have recently got blood test done and my ferritin comes 11.8 ng/ml which is very low what should I do
Answers (7)
Get your queries answered instantly with Care AI FREE
20000+ health queries resolved in last month
Start livogen
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Didn't find the answer you are looking for?
Talk to experienced doctor online and get your health questions answered in just 5 minutes.
+109
Get cbc done, share results and symptoms.
Then I can help you further.
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Do consult
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
kindly do connect and consult with me for better treatment plan and advice on your case via PRACTO app
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Proper evaluation and personalised advice are needed for your concern. A detailed consultation would be best to provide accurate guidance.
Feel free to consult me for further assistance.
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Dr. Mohammed Syam Shajahan
General Physician
5 yrs exp
Kollam
Hello. A Serum Ferritin level of 11.8 ng/ml indicates Iron Deficiency Without Anemia (Stage 1/2 Iron Deficiency). Even though your Hemoglobin (Hb) level is currently normal, your body’s internal iron storage tanks (ferritin) are depleted. If left unaddressed, this will eventually lead to overt iron deficiency anemia.
Understanding Your Condition:
Why Low Ferritin Matters: Low ferritin can cause symptoms like fatigue, hair fall, restless legs, difficulty concentrating, and weakness, even before your hemoglobin levels drop.
Common Causes in Young Females: In a 20-year-old, the most common reasons are heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, inadequate dietary iron intake, or poor intestinal iron absorption. Your body weight (38 kg) also suggests a need for overall nutritional support.
Medical Management:
Oral Iron Supplementation: You will benefit from an oral iron supplement (such as Ferrous Ascorbate or Elemental Iron with Folic Acid) taken daily for 2 to 3 months to rebuild your iron stores.
Vitamin C Combination: Iron absorption in the gut is significantly enhanced when taken alongside Vitamin C (or lemon water/orange juice).
Next Steps
Re-check your Serum Ferritin and Complete Blood Count (CBC) after 8 to 12 weeks of continuous supplementation to confirm that your iron stores have successfully replenished.
Health Tips
Iron-Rich Diet: Incorporate iron-rich foods into your daily meals:
Vegetarian sources: Spinach, jaggery (gud), dates, raisins, pomegranate, legumes, lentils, and pumpkin seeds.
Non-vegetarian sources (if applicable): Eggs, red meat, chicken, and liver.
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Articles you may like
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
The question asked on this page is a free question. You can ask a free health question by downloading the Practo app.
Articles you may like
Tell us what's troubling you
Tell us what's troubling you
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.