My son recently had his 9-month old checkup and was diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia. His hemoglobin level was 9.7. We started the Polyvisol with Iron, and 2 weeks later, his level is already up to 10.8. His MCV level was still quite low (was 68, now 70), but it's started to improve. But I'm so concerned about the long-term impact of the anemia. The studies out there are so scary and say the developmental delays, especially mentally, may be permanent. Has anyone else had a baby whose hemoglobin levels were below 10? Have you seen developmental delays in your child, and have they been reversed as the iron-deficiency was corrected? I'd love to hear about your experiences.
My son's iron was very low, He hated the vitamins-gave him lots of pediasure-then it was fine. Hes a wonderful athletic smart 14 year old-best wishes!
Damage from low levels of iron and hemoglobin is the result of long term low levels. You've corrected it; therefore there should be no damage. Ask your doctor since you're concerned.
My 2nd son at his 1 yr check up were at 8.0 (nurse even mentioned possible hospitalization, yikes). Took over a yr to get to acceptable levels. I haven't noticed any developmental issues with him at all. In fact, he far exceeds what my oldest was doing at this age, who was not anemic.
I think the developmental delays and such are for those who have chronic anemia and are not treated. They caught your baby's earlier enough, as long as they monitor it and levels are going up I wouldn't worry about it. I was concerned with my son simply because his levels weren't improving as fast as they would have liked and he also developed pica like tendencies--eating dirt and lots of it. But like I said he's doing great.
Continue the follow up and listening to the Pediatrician and I'm sure all will be fine!
Yes, anemia is extremely common at this age. Almost every mom I know has had at least one child with anemia around this age that turned out just fine, mine included. Permanent issues are typically for this with severe levels and longterm without any treatment or if the child also has other health issues or are at risk children.
http://www.babycenter.com/0_iron-deficiency-anemia-in-bab...
My son at 6 months old tested at around 10, here the leverl is 11, and after talking with my mom seems to be a factor in red heads. My mom has iron problems along with my sister and one of her daughters, none show any signs of anything being delayed. We are also on the vi-sol with iron, and was told high vit c to help absorb. my lil guy is now 14 months old and has been battling low iron since 6 months at least and shows no delay at all. if you find something that helps please pass it on, we are still doing iron rich infant cereal with some fruit from the gerber and beech nut squeezy pouches to get the vit c in and vi-sol vitamins and juice, was also given a list of rich foods at a wic appointment that include beans, but I remember being told with any and all iron foods and vitamins have to have the vit c to help absorb. if you find anything else that works please pass it on.
Both of my kids were deemed anemic at birth. Was never given numbers, just that they needed to be on iron based formula. Even when I tried to breastfeed my son, I had to suppliment with formula. I continually have a problem with anemia.
My son was on regular Enfamil, and my daughter on Enfamil Soy. Both are both intellegent, artistic, little spitfires! Do they have other health issues like allergies and asthma, yes, but I don't see those as related to the anemia.
