Folic Acid And Iron Defiency

[floridanative]

I have unexplained anemia. After finding out that iron pills aren't doing the trick, I finally saw a GI last month and he runs some blood/stool tests. Only thing odd is some anti-body level is too high - don't know which one - and my iron stores are almost depleted totally. Had to go back on iron except for 7 days before the colonscopy he makes me get. He told me about celiac disease but wouldn't do the biopsy first. The colon test shows diverticulosis only which runs in my family but I eat tons of fiber now so it's not an issue. But about a week ago my reg. doc called to say my homocystene test (finally got insuance to pay) shows I am low on folic acid. Well she wants me on rx folic acid which is just what my Dad's doc mentioned I'd need if I was deficient (like my Dad is).

So here is my question - finally. Does anyone know if I do have a natural (genetic) folic acid deficiency, could that affect my iron stores? Obviously this would be wonderful if I don't have celiac disease and just have to take the folic acid. I decided that I need to see a hemotologist who can really explore my anemia before having the biopsy. If he comes up with nothing, I guess I'll have to get ready to go gluten-free - after the endoscopy of course.

Experts - what do you think? Am I grasping at straws?

Tiffany M.

[floridanative]

Well I'm just adding some info since with more research, I was able to find a link between genetic problems with folic acid and iron deficiency anemia. It usually occurs in persons over 65 but as young as mid-fifties. Well, I'm 42 but my shingles were misdiagnosed TWICE due to my young age so I don't trust statistics like that. In any case, I decided to see a hemotologist who will explore every avenue of my anemia before getting the biopsy done in Jan. I'll post what if anything the new doc finds/says.

I'd still value anyone's advice or opinion on the subject.

Thanks!

Tiffany M.