Oral iron tablets don’t always solve iron deficiency—investigation and sometimes IV therapy are needed in Dubai.
Have you been taking iron tablets for weeks—or even months—but still feel tired?
You’re not alone. Iron supplements are often the first line of treatment, but they don’t always fix the problem. Here’s why.
1. Poor absorption
Some people simply don’t absorb iron well from tablets. Conditions like:
- Celiac disease
- SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth)
- Inflammation from IBD or gastritis
…can block absorption from the gut.
2. Side effects
Iron tablets often cause:
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Dark stools
Many people stop them without realising, or only take a partial dose. That’s not enough to restore iron stores.
3. Ongoing blood loss
You may be losing iron faster than you’re replacing it. This could be due to:
- Heavy periods
- Bleeding from the gut (ulcers, inflammation, polyps)
- Worms or parasites (in some regions)
These causes need to be identified early—tablets alone won’t fix the problem.
4. Wrong diagnosis
Low energy doesn’t always mean low iron. Fatigue can be due to:
- Thyroid problems
- Vitamin B12 or D deficiency
- Sleep disorders
- Chronic inflammation
You may need a broader assessment—not just iron.
What we offer in Dubai
At our JCI-accredited clinic in Dubai, we:
- Confirm your diagnosis with full lab testing
- Investigate for hidden gut-related causes
- Provide IV iron infusion in a safe, monitored setting for faster results
- Look at the whole picture—not just one number on your blood test
If you’ve been on iron tablets and still don’t feel well, it’s time to take the next step.
Faq
Q1: I’m taking iron tablets but still feel tired—why?
It could be poor absorption, wrong diagnosis, or ongoing blood loss. You may need IV iron or further testing.
Q2: What are the side effects of iron tablets?
Common side effects include nausea, bloating, constipation, and black stools.
Q3: When should I switch to IV iron?
If oral tablets aren’t helping after several weeks—or if side effects are limiting your dose—you may benefit from IV therapy.
Q4: Do you investigate for causes of poor absorption?
Yes. We offer gut testing for conditions like SIBO, celiac, and IBD to find and treat the root problem.