How to deal with low immunity?

Question

Hello doctor,

I recently had a heart monitor test, and it came back normal. I have four children, but my health has declined since January after having my baby. It is not postpartum depression, but I just feel unwell. I have low immunity and keep getting sick often. Would you like to explore some possible causes for feeling this way or suggestions for improving your immunity?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

I have reviewed your labs, and they are mostly normal. You do not have anemia right now, but your white blood cell count is consistently high, indicating a possible underlying infection, as shown by the persistent neutrophilia. Additionally, your transferrin saturation is low, meaning your body is not delivering iron effectively.

To address this, I recommend getting a blood culture to check for infections. You might need IV iron supplements since oral iron may not be enough. If you are taking Tizanidine, it could be causing feelings of lowness, so reducing it and using an anxiolytic may help. A balanced diet rich in protein, fruits, and vegetables, along with exercise, can boost your immunity.

Lastly, I noticed your red blood cell count is high. Have you ever been tested for thalassemia? Since you have had anemia in the past, understanding the cause would be important. If possible, share old reports about your anemia and low hemoglobin; you might be a thalassemia carrier.

Follow-up needed with blood culture and after these measures.

Please let me know if there is anything else I can help you with.

Take care.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

You can show your test reports to your doctor and explain that your transferrin saturation is low, which means your body is not carrying iron properly. Additionally, you are experiencing weakness, and your total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) is on the higher side. These are signs that your body may not be getting enough iron.

In cases of iron deficiency, just one or two infusions can often lead to significant improvement. I am not sure which country you are from, but in some places, it is easier to get a prescription for iron infusions. If your doctor is not convinced, you can ask them to explain the connection between low transferrin saturation and increased total iron-binding capacity in another way.

If an infusion is not an option, you can also try oral iron therapy. Taking iron supplements, such as ferrous gluconate, could help if your body can absorb the iron properly. If you go this route, check your results after a month to see if there is any improvement.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.