Iron deficiency

Hello, yes my husband had Ivor Lewis 11 months ago. Recently hes been having trouble with dehydration and has also become very anaemic. He needed 5 blood transfusions over 3 days while in hospital. We were shocked as he hadn’t been having regular blood tests. He is feeling much better in himself now but he will be monitored and have blood tests more frequently to make sure his level stays up where it should be.
We believe he became anaemic due to malnutrition so are seeing a surgeon soon and hoping he will have a Jtube placed to help.
Sorry I can’t be more help, but I think in some people, this does happen
Wishing you all the best in your recovery
Deb

Thanks for your response. I am scheduled for iron infusions in October. We’re still figuring out what is causing the deficiency. I wish you and your husband well too. The post surgery adjustments are major and varied, even years out.

I have malabsorption and been seeing a hematologist for occasional iron and ferritan infusions. I’ve had infusions maybe every other or more for years. Every 6 mos iron blood test. Good luck.

I've had 2 bouts of iron deficiency anemia and recurring diagnoses of malabsorption during the 8 years I am post esophagectomy. There is definitely a connection between our inability to digest food AND absorb it and the fact that many of us have had some portion of our vagal nerve removed during the surgery which also impacts how our bodies digest nutrients.
Unfortunately, many doctors don't regularly monitor blood levels for ferritin and only look at hemoglobin numbers which can mask the anemia as i found out.
So... after struggling to not keep losing weight and being anemic and getting brittle bones - here's what I've learned:
Get blood tests regularly - ferritin, TIBC for iron levels and don't have drs just rely on hemoglobin levels
Also have B12 monitored - we're usually deficient in that as well
Have enzyme levels checked (EPI stool test) and even if it comes back OK ask dr for samples of Creon which is an enzyme replacement pill. Very expensive so I'd see if it even helps. I gained 2 pounds after starting them back in May but I found out my levels were low so my insurance is covering it
Let me know if you have other questions.

Hi Dave,
I think the deficiency is just caused by malabsorption…he can’t tolerate red meat although we are trying !
Hope they find a solution for you too,
Deb

@hardtoswallow Good advice.