Where should one begin if they have a family history of leukemia, heart disease, and lack of concentration?

Question

Hello doctor,

Recently, I discovered petechiae on my arms and had blood work done. Due to my gastric bypass, I have suffered from iron deficiency anemia for years. However, I have now noticed that my carbon dioxide levels are out of whack. Average platelet count for me. I also complained to the doctor about my inability to concentrate, difficulty remembering details, everyday memory loss, and increasing monthly bleeding. Heart issues and leukemia run in my family. My aunts, uncle, grandfather, and sister got cancer; my sister and grandfather passed away. Along with his mother and father having heart issues, my father and his sister died abruptly from heart attacks. Any suggestions on where to start would be helpful.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Your family has a history of cancer and heart issues. Therefore, frequent screening for it is required. Your results indicate iron deficiency anemia (gastric bypass may impact iron absorption). If oral ferrous sulfate pills are ineffective in treating anemia, injectable iron is given instead. Check your thyroid function using the serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and T4. You should be regularly examined with complete blood count, ultrasound, electrocardiogram (ECG), blood pressure checks, treadmill tests, etc., once a year and physical screening to find heart issues or cancer early. Therefore, iron deficiency anemia should be treated with vitamin drugs and a thyroid status check as a first workup for your issue.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.