Understanding MCV Fluctuations
I recently visited the emergency room where I underwent some laboratory tests a few weeks back, revealing an MCV of 84. Last Wednesday, I went for another set of routine lab tests—something I hadn't done in a while—and received a clean bill of health overall. However, my doctor left me a message noting that my MCV has increased to 97. Is this kind of variation typical? If it's concerning, what specific questions should I bring up with my physician? I tend to feel anxious about phone calls and usually need to plan what I want to say in advance. As for my health background, I don’t have any known issues that could impact MCV, and the medication I’m currently taking, bupropion XL, doesn’t appear to have any influence on those levels either.
Answers (1)
6/16/2025, 4:10:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
Main Points: MCV (mean corpuscular volume) variations can occur for various reasons, but significant changes should be understood. It's important to discuss any concerns with your physician and prepare specific questions.
Explanation: MCV is a measure of the average size of your red blood cells. Normal MCV ranges typically fall between 80 and 100 femtoliters. Having an MCV of 84 in one test and then 97 in another could indicate fluctuations due to several factors including hydration status, recent diet, or even the timing of the tests in relation to your health changes. While variations can be typical, a change from 84 to 97 is significant and may warrant further discussion with your healthcare provider.
Next Steps:
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Prepare Questions: Before reaching out to your doctor, consider asking the following:
- What could have caused the increase in my MCV?
- Should we conduct further tests to determine the underlying reason for this change?
- Are there any symptoms I should watch for in relation to my MCV levels?
- Is there any specific follow-up care I need to consider?
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Pay attention to how you're feeling. Note any fatigue, weakness, or other unusual symptoms that may occur. This information can be helpful for your doctor.
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Manage Your Anxiety: If phone calls are difficult, you might write down your questions and concerns in a note or practice what you want to say beforehand. You could also consider discussing your anxiety about calls with your doctor, who might suggest alternative ways to communicate.
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Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with conditions related to MCV fluctuations, such as vitamin deficiencies or dehydration. This can help you feel more comfortable during your conversation.
Remember, it’s perfectly okay to seek clarification and express any discomfort regarding your health. Preparing in advance can make these discussions easier and more productive.
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