Posted by TamaraJ on October 27, 2005, at 15:45:58
In reply to Re: Would like some advice please, posted by teejay on October 26, 2005, at 21:22:01
Hi,
Tealady and I have actually discussed ferritin blood tests in the past. We both have had similar experiences with ferritin levels.
The symptoms I have been having for quite some time now are: low blood pressure, dizziness; blood sugar problems (often low); non-restorative sleep (even if I get a full 8 hours); cystic breasts; exaggerated startle reflex; dark circles under my eyes; feeling worse after exercising; difficulty concentrating and overall exhaustion.
So far the naturopath has only done a few tests (in office), including blood pressure, blood sugar and urine. The urine test was what has so far confirmed adrenal fatigue. She will be doing bloodwork and saliva tests next. I don't know how it works in the U.S., but in Canada, naturopaths can requisition the same blood tests as doctors, but the patient pays for the tests. Saliva testing is supposed to be very good for measuring hormones, and, if you are in the U.S., you can order your own test kit, which is analyzed by a lab and the results are returned to you. I think barbaracat has a lab which she has used and recommends.
I found this blurb on the symptoms of adrenal fatigue:
"Adrenal insufficiency symptoms include: weakness, lack of libido, allergies, dark circles under the eyes, muscle and joint pain, dizziness, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, food and salt cravings, poor sleep, dry skin, cystic breasts, lines of dark pigment in nails, difficulty recuperating from stresses like colds or jet lag, no stamina for confrontation, tendency to startle easily, lowered immune function, anxiety, depression, and premature aging. Some of these symptoms are similar to those of low thyroid."
It may be worth looking into ordering the saliva tests. I think some of the kits measure things like thyroid, cortisol, DHEA, testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, pregnenolone, etc.
I will let you know how it goes with me. I don't see the naturopath again until late November. In the meantime, I will be having bloodwork done and doing the saliva testing.
Take care.
> Shhhhhh, whatever you do don't mention ferritin blood tests to tealady ;-)
>
> Joking aside, I think when tealady spots your post, she will point you in the right direction here.
>
> I'm curious as to what symptoms you have which suggest adrenal fatigue....its something i've considered may well be a problem with me for many years now, but never really been sure how to test for it or how really to treat it.
>
> I'd be most grateful if you could post again when you have some more info from your naturopath....if thats ok?
>
> TJ
>
>
poster:TamaraJ
thread:572214
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20051025/msgs/572440.html