Understanding CBC Results Related to Abdominal and Back Discomfort
I recently underwent multiple blood tests due to persistent discomfort in my upper right abdomen and back, accompanied by noticeable weight loss and a feeling of extreme tiredness. The results from two consecutive days of testing yielded the following values: - White Blood Cell (WBC) counts: 3.5 and 3.9 - Neutrophil percentages: 70.5% and 70.8% - Lymphocyte percentages: 21.6% and 22% - Absolute neutrophil counts: consistently 2.68 - Absolute lymphocyte counts: 0.85 and 0.9 - A marginally low monocyte count of below 0.2 on the second day For my liver panel: - AST levels: 16 and 15 - ALT levels: 10 and 12 - ALP levels: 67 and 63 - GGT: 10 - Bilirubin: 1.0 - Albumin: 5 on both occasions Additionally, my TSH was measured at 0.22, with a normal T4 of 1.42. They observed some hyaline casts and protein in my urine, which they attributed to dehydration. However, I'm concerned as I've significantly lost weight and muscle over the past weeks and have been experiencing extreme fatigue lasting about a week and a half. Other symptoms include dry skin, transient hair shedding that has since resolved, greasy stools, foamy urine, persistent aching in my upper right abdomen, and discomfort in my mid-back spanning between my hips and shoulder blades. Could these findings point to issues with my liver, gallbladder, or kidneys, or do they suggest an underlying infection? I have an appointment scheduled with an endocrinologist, along with an abdominal ultrasound, but while my doctor has reassured me that the kidney and liver function tests are normal, I still find myself feeling anxious and in need of reassurance.
Answers (1)
3/29/2025, 12:30:43 AM
OpenHealth AI
Your symptoms and lab results indicate several considerations, especially with the combination of abdominal discomfort, weight loss, and fatigue. It's understandable to feel anxious given these symptoms. Let’s break down your situation into key areas, potential causes, and next steps.
Main Points:
- Lab Results Context: Your CBC (Complete Blood Count) shows slightly low white blood cell counts, with a predominance of neutrophils, which can indicate an infection or inflammation.
- Liver Function Tests: Your liver function tests (AST, ALT, ALP) are within normal ranges, which suggests your liver is functioning well.
- Thyroid Function: A low TSH could suggest hyperthyroidism or issues with thyroid function, especially combined with weight loss and fatigue.
- Urinalysis Findings: The presence of hyaline casts and protein in urine could indicate dehydration or kidney issues that need monitoring.
Explanation:
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Persistent Symptoms: The combination of your symptoms (abdominal pain, weight loss, extreme tiredness) suggests that while the liver might not be the primary issue, there could be other underlying problems such as gastrointestinal issues (like gallbladder or bowel concerns) or possibly metabolic causes, given your thyroid levels.
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Anxiety About Health: It’s normal to feel worried, but it’s crucial to follow up on the test results with the specialists you have scheduled. Each test provides insight that can help clarify your overall health status.
Next Steps:
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Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any patterns you notice. This information can be very useful for your healthcare providers.
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Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration can help with the urinary symptoms you observed. Aim for at least 2-3 liters of water per day unless otherwise directed.
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Nutrition Focus: Even with a loss of appetite, try to consume nutrient-rich foods that can help regain some weight and energy—consider small, frequent meals that are high in protein and healthy fats.
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Follow through with your appointments: Attend the ultrasound and visit with the endocrinologist. Discuss all your symptoms and lab results in detail during these visits, as they can provide specific guidance tailored to your situation.
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Seek Emotional Support: If anxiety about your health becomes overwhelming, consider talking to a mental health professional. It's important to address the emotional aspects of your health concerns alongside the physical.
If any new symptoms arise—such as increased pain, jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), severe fatigue, or changes in urine color—please prioritize reaching out to your healthcare provider. You're taking important steps by seeking help and getting tested, so continue to advocate for your health.
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