If you have had transfusions, are getting transfusions, or have iron overload, it is important to have your iron levels tested every 3 months. This will help you know if your iron levels are where they should be. Remember, if your iron level continues to be over 1000 mcg/L (micrograms per liter), you have iron overload.
If your iron level is normal now, you could be at risk for iron overload later if you continue to have blood transfusions. So it is important that you and your doctor keep a record of how many transfusions you have had and how much iron is in your body. If your iron level is above 1000 mcg/L and stays above 1000 mcg/L, you have iron overload.
Here are some things you can do to track your iron levels.
- Keep a list of all your transfusions and the results of your serum ferritin tests
- Take your list to your doctor visits so that he or she can review them
- Remember the important numbers for iron overload: 10 transfusions and an iron level above 1000 mcg/L
- Use the Talking With Your Doctor guide to get the conversation started about iron overload
- Ask your doctor about results from your serum ferritin tests and if the tests show your iron levels have changed
- Ask your doctor when he or she thinks you might need to manage your iron overload and ask about treatment options
