Vitamin Malabsorption?

[Jodi84]

Hello Everybody,

I'm new on this forum but after reading several topics I thought this was my last hope for help, before visiting a Doctor.

My medical history: I'm a 22 year old female who's health condition has always been A-OK. In September 2005 I underwent Gastric Bypass Surgery and lost 90 lbs. till now. I'm 5 7" and weigh 178 lbs.

For the past 2 months I have had several symptoms that restricted me from being who I am. I have had non-stop headaches for the past 2 months and I'm taking Tylenol/Advil several times a day, I'm extremely dizzy during the day, at times I can't even get out of bed or sometimes during cooking I have to leave everything and go lay down, I'm also very very weak, there are times when I can't even make a fist or carry my own handbag, and I have been suffering from extreme hairloss. Lastly, I have a hard times staying asleep! My boyfriend has been telling me that I look pale eveyrday and I have extremely dark circles around my eyes.

Today I looked in the mirror (after almost passing out in the shower) and I could barely recognize myself. I look extremely pale with dark circles. I really don't want to sound offensive but I look like a drug addict. I'm afraid I have a big problem, but I'm hestitant to go to the doctor since I don't have insurance right now.

Does this sound familiar to anyone?

[mrs canada]

I am leaning towards anemia and thyroid (maybe not both). Regardless, it's not going to be a costly fix. They are diagnosed via bloodtest, and the medication to treat it fairly inexpensive. Good news is, you could feel better after a week of treatment - so get to a doctor! :)

[tmv]

It sounds like you may be anemic.  I totally understand the no insurance thing but I'd go ahead and make an appointment.  If your dizziness and weakness are bad you might decide on an emergency room visit and discuss the payments later.  You can get extra iron from green leafy vegetables and organ meats.  Also, otc iron pills.  
I really don't know anyone that has had gastric bypass to know how long complications can arise from it.  Please excuse me for asking, but are you having any black tarry stools or heavy periods?  I would go to the dr that did the surgery on you as he could compare your values that were done before surgery to now.  Hgb and Hct.

[Jodi84]

Thank You for the resposnes!!

I have no problems with my stool and no heavy periods in contrary, I usually had periods that lasted for 4 days and now I have weird periods that only last 2 days MAX and the blood lose is minimal.

I tried getting in contact with my Surgeon, but since he's in Belgium (got operated there), he asked me to come in. Again and expense I can't have right now. I think I will follow your advise and just go do a blood test.

Thanks,
Jodi