Anemia can cause extreme fatigue, general weakness and headaches. Combine that with the nausea and constipation that iron supplements can cause and it is no wonder that you would like to finish your iron supplement treatment as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, anemia is seldom treated as quickly as you would desire. However, if you maximize the abilities of your supplements you may be on the road to good health in a couple of months.
Typical Length
If you have anemia, and your doctor has prescribed an iron supplement, there is no set amount of time that you will require supplementation. The severity of your anemia and your body’s response to treatment will determine the length of time it will take to attain normal blood levels. The MayoClinic.com reports that you will need to take your supplements for several months or longer. However, you will likely feel your symptoms ease after a week or two of treatment.
Setbacks
The underlying cause of your anemia can continue to plight your recovery if the cause is not treated. Common causes of anemia include bleeding ulcers, heavy menstrual bleeding, digestive disorders that prevent iron absorption and an iron-poor diet. These potential setbacks are an important reason to work closely with your physician throughout your recovery. If you attempt to cure your anemia alone with over-the-counter supplements, not only do you risk toxicity, you also fail to address the real cause of your anemia. Furthermore, coffee, tea, soda and possibly calcium can all inhibit the rate that your body absorbs iron according to the University of Colorado, making it important to limit or avoid these products.
Improve Absorption
If you are dreading the potential of needing supplements for the better part of a year, it is wise to take steps to improve your iron absorption. According to a study that appeared in the November 2004 issue of the “International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research,” vitamin C greatly improves your body’s ability to absorb ferrous sulfate, a popular type of iron supplement. The MayoClinic.com also suggests taking your supplements on an empty stomach to improve absorption.
Other Treatments
If you would like to reduce the length of time you must take iron supplements, you should ask your doctor about other treatments. She will likely suggest dietary changes to aid in your treatment. She may also prescribe birth control pills to minimize menstrual bleeding or even surgery to treat internal bleeding. In cases of severe anemia, your doctor may request that you get a blood transfusion to replace your iron levels quickly.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Iron; Steven D. Ehrlich et al.; June 2009
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute; What is Iron-Deficiency Anemia?; April 2011
- Medline Plus: Iron
- MayoClinic.com; Iron Deficiency Anemia; March 2011
- “International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research"; Enhancers of iron Absorption: Ascorbic Acid and Other Organic Acids; B. Teucher; November 2004
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