Yes, ask for a retest by doing a CBC which is more accurate to test for
real anemia, and since the child is 10 mo they could do the lead test at
the same time to rule out elevated lead.  Normal iron for this age is
l0.0gm Hgb so 9.9 is not really anemic.    Giving this mom a list of high
iron foods which the baby may consume at least some, and offering vit C
foods with the iron source to improve absorption, may change the iron
sufficiently.
  Good luck!  michelle scott, RD,IBCLC

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From:   Lisa[SMTP:[log in to unmask]]
Sent:   Wednesday, January 28, 1998 6:51 PM
Subject:        anemia

I got a call from the mother of a 10 month old.  At her recent well-baby
check her hemoglobin measured 9.9.  Her MD said anything under 10.5 was
unacceptable. Her doctor wants her to start giving iron supplements 3 times
a day and they must be given on an empty stomach.  Mother says baby doesn't
eat much solids.  She also said allergies run in her family.  Mother
doesn't
really want to do the iron supplements.  She also said the pediatrician is
not supportive of her nursing past one year.  She told her that she
probably
won't have enough milk.
Should the mother ask for a retest before starting supplements?  What can
she do besides supplements to boost the hemoglobin/

Thank you,
Lisa Haider
LLLL