Take Control of Your Health

Whether you’re having regular or occasional blood transfusions, it’s important to take an active role in maintaining your health.

To help take control, you can:

• Talk to your doctor. Keep your healthcare team advised of any changes in symptoms, energy level, or well being. Keep regular appointments.
• Know your ferritin levels. A simple blood test for serum ferritin (pronounced fer-i-tin) can help your doctor find out whether you have iron overload.
• Educate yourself. The more you know about iron overload, the better prepared you’ll be to take steps to protect your health.
• Stay positive. Even if your doctor finds signs of iron overload, it can be treated. Be aware that early treatment can help prevent many serious health problems. You can continue to receive needed blood transfusions as long as you get treatment to prevent further buildup of iron.
• Sign up, and get your free Doctor Discussion Guide.