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What would be the next step to take with a 56 year old obese man who has diabetes mellitus (over 25 years), hypertension, blood vessel disease (DVT, carotid artery, etc.), elevated ferritin, low transferrin, fatigue, and has had a normal hemoccult?

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newly discovered problem, hemoccult was first test.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $8

You mention several problems and I am not sure which is the newly discovered one when you say the hemoccult was normal.
Please tell me more and I'll see what I can do for you! Barbara

B.Shap

Reply to B. Shapiro's Post: Old health issues are all listed except the fatigue (iron, total was 23, now 45), the ferritin level is over 500, transferrin is 12, and the hemoccult was done due to the earlier anemia. We are trying to find out WHY the blood sugars are all over the place (500+ in Sept/Oct 2005) and has settled in right now with an average of 220 for 14 days. Dr suspected colo-rectal issues, but occult was normal. The new issues have shown up since January 1st of 2006. Any idea on what way to go or what to expect next?

Edited by Customer (name blocked for privacy) on April 2 2006 at 5:03 PM

His anemia is certainly identifiable but the cause is not. There are a number of different types and causes of anemia. Finding the source is necessary before any particular treatment is rendered.

I do not want to assume that he has not followed what diabetics are advised - low carbohydrates, high vegetable & protein diet, exercise, regular glucose testing throughout the day, medical management with either insulin and/or medications. If he has addressed this major disease as above he will have reduced the complications, although the hypertension and vessel disease are already present.

I do not know how he manages the diabetes but has he considered using a pump to regulate it? They are very effective and the best treatment for your husband which can be implemented right away is to get better control of those high sugars.

Alcohol is a factor in anemia as well so that should be avoided.
There is a lot going on here and if you have more to say click "reply" and we can keep this discussion going. I may not answer back immediately but I will get back to you shortly.

I hope some of this helps. I live with a 30+ years diabetic, Type 1 and I am a Type 2. I have a lot of knowledge I can pass on to you but the anemia situation does need further medical testing. Has he had a colonoscopy? There is also another blood test I will find for you which is a better marker to rule out any malignant condition.

I can continue this further if this answer is not adequate. If it is please hit the accept button. For contacting me more about the info I can share with you please email me at barbshap@optonline.net. Regards, Barbara

B.Shap

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