General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
Tests before an operation may reveal anaemia, meaning haemoglobin is too low. Ask the surgeon or anaesthetist what this result means for you.
An operation can cause blood loss and worsen anaemia. Treating it before surgery that may involve bleeding aims to reduce complications and the need for transfusion.
Anaemia has several causes: further tests may look for iron, vitamin B9 or vitamin B12 deficiency. Treatment is chosen according to the findings, not tiredness alone.
If iron deficiency is confirmed, the doctor may suggest oral or intravenous iron according to the circumstances. Appropriate treatment may be needed even with a varied diet.
The French health authority describes preoperative ferric carboxymaltose given by a nurse under medical supervision, including monitoring for reactions. Ask where it will be given and which instructions apply to your prescription.
Ask the team promptly who will arrange tests, treatment and checks before the operation. If time is short or discomfort develops during the infusion, tell the professional without changing the plan yourself.
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