Can malabsorption cause fatigue, malaise, dizziness, and hair loss?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 43 year old female. I visited my doctor last week and she said I do not have anemia because my MCV is within normal limits. I have fatigue, malaise, hair loss, shortness of breath on exertion, dizziness, pale skin, and I bruise easily. I have a history of gastric bypass surgery ten years ago.

I have a dual-chamber pacemaker because of severe tachycardia. I also have hypothyroidism, malabsorption secondary to gastric bypass, and heavy menses. I am currently taking Ranitidine and Levothyroxine. I had an iron infusion seven months back but the result did not last long.

Last week my doctor said I am not anemic and that she wants to watch my MCVs, she ordered a B12 injection and wants me to do a repeat CBC (complete blood count).

Does this seem reasonable, or would you say from the trend in my reports that I am anemic, and would benefit from further iron infusions as I am suffering from malabsorption? Kindly suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:

Yes, your doctor is right. You are not anemic.
Serum ferritin levels are good and MCV (mean corpuscular volume) and MCH (mean corpuscular hemoglobin) are normal suggesting no iron deficiency.
Yes, your symptoms could be due to malnutrition. A balanced diet and multivitamins along with mineral supplements should be beneficial.
Everything is good with blood cells and iron levels. Not to worry about this. Try for a balanced diet and further nutritional supplements.

You can always come back and reach me at icliniq.com.

Thank you for consulting me.