Can Iron Supplements Cause Positive Hemoccult?
July 15, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Iron supplements themselves do not typically cause a positive hemoccult test. A hemoccult test, also known as a fecal occult blood test (FOBT), is used to detect hidden (occult) blood in the stool, which can be a sign of conditions like colorectal cancer, gastrointestinal bleeding, or other digestive tract disorders.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Gastrointestinal Irritation: In some cases, iron supplements can cause gastrointestinal irritation or upset, which might lead to minor bleeding in the digestive tract. This bleeding could potentially lead to a positive hemoccult test.
- Dietary Factors: Certain foods and medications can influence the results of a hemoccult test. It’s important to follow any dietary restrictions provided by your healthcare provider before taking the test to avoid false positives.
If you receive a positive hemoccult test result, it’s essential to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation to determine the cause of the positive result and ensure appropriate treatment or management.