My ferritin levels are at 10.8. Should I get a second opinion?

Question

Hello doctor,

Recently, I got my ferritin levels checked and the results revealed that it was at 10.8. I feel very tired and also I look very pale. The doctors have not contacted me about the results. Should I get a second opinion?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. The normal range of ferritin is between 20 to 200. So, your ferritin level is below the normal range. The ferritin is a protein that stores or preserve iron in the body. The liver synthesizes the ferritin. It means you have less iron storage. But, we need to look your iron level, hemoglobin (Hb) level, RBC (red blood cell) level and a hematological smear of your blood. These will tell us whether you are anemic or not. In some people, the iron, Hb, RBC are normal with a reduced ferritin. In those cases, the patients will not be anemic. But, if the liver is not producing more ferritin protein, then there is a less iron reserve in the body. Here, we need to give liver tonics to produce more ferritin. Alcohol, smoking and other chemical exposure which affect liver should be avoided. In some people, the iron level is less with less ferritin. Here, we need to supply iron as well. However, your test did not show any dangerous things. If possible, better visit the clinic again.