What Should I Do About Elevated IgG Levels?
Subject: Seeking Guidance on Elevated IgG Results Hey everyone, I’m a 28-year-old female and had some lab work performed a few weeks back. The results indicated slightly elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels at 121, which is just over the threshold set by the lab, along with an elevated immunoglobulin G (IgG) level of 1710 - the upper limit being 1600. There were no spikes in M proteins detected. I haven't experienced any illness recently, but I have been suffering from severe night sweats and ongoing fatigue. Additionally, the tests revealed that my sympathetic nervous system is overly reactive, though no formal diagnosis was made as that will require a different specialist's review, and I've been instructed to apply to see one. Now, I need to follow up regarding the high IgG levels, but I’m unsure about which healthcare professional to consult. Should I reach out to my primary care provider? It didn't seem like a typical lab issue for them to address, but I want to verify before booking an appointment. I didn’t get a chance to ask the necessary questions during my visit since the tests were rather draining, and I'm now in a bit of a holding pattern waiting for further information. To add context, when I visited with a dermatologist at the Mayo Clinic, they mentioned that it may just be a matter of bad luck for me. Despite being only in my 20s, I’ve experienced issues such as vasculitis, unexpected hives, melasma, and lichen sclerosus. Sometimes, it feels like I possess the skin of someone much older than my age. 😅 I really hope there is a discernible cause behind these symptoms and that it's not simply a matter of being “unlucky.” Thanks for any advice you can provide!
Answers (1)
4/3/2025, 5:00:57 PM
OpenHealth AI
Summary: Elevated IgG levels can indicate a variety of underlying issues, and it’s important to follow up with the right healthcare provider. Given your symptoms of night sweats and fatigue, in addition to your medical history, starting with your primary care provider (PCP) is a good step.
Explanation: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is an antibody that plays a role in the immune response, and elevated levels can arise from various conditions, including chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, or other inflammatory processes. Your symptoms of severe night sweats and ongoing fatigue, coupled with a history of skin issues and an overactive sympathetic nervous system, suggest that there might be something systemic at play.
With the elevated alkaline phosphatase and your history, it’s wise to clarify these results in a comprehensive evaluation. While it may feel daunting, your experience of feeling “unlucky” is not uncommon in the medical realm, and many patients with multiple symptoms can find answers through thorough investigations.
Next Steps:
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Contact Your Primary Care Provider (PCP): Schedule an appointment to discuss the lab results, your symptoms, and any necessary follow-up tests. Your PCP can interpret results in the context of your overall health and guide you to specialists if needed.
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Prepare for Your Appointment: Write down your symptoms, lab results, and any questions or concerns. This will help ensure you address everything that’s been on your mind.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a daily diary of your night sweats, fatigue levels, and any other symptoms. This information will be useful for your provider in understanding the severity and frequency of your issues.
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Stay Informed: While you wait for your appointment, continue to educate yourself about the possible causes of elevated IgG levels. This might help you feel more empowered when discussing your health with professionals.
Your health concerns are valid, and taking these steps will help you find clarity and potential solutions. If symptoms worsen, such as increased fatigue or new issues arising, do not hesitate to reach out sooner for medical advice.
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