Interpreting My Lab Results
I am a 46-year-old female, a non-smoker, experiencing lingering symptoms from Long Covid, but I do not have any other health issues at the moment. I’m seeking your assistance in understanding my lab results. Since Saturday, I have been experiencing pain in my right flank and upper right quadrant, but I haven’t observed any other concerning symptoms. I’m currently 7 weeks post gallbladder surgery, which went smoothly with no complications. I visited the emergency room today where they conducted an ultrasound. The doctors informed me that my lab results appeared normal and discharged me. However, I personally feel that my lab values do not seem right. My red blood cell count has always been on the lower side, yet I have never encountered issues with my hematocrit or MCHC levels. I am contemplating whether I should return to the emergency room for a CT scan to eliminate the possibility of internal bleeding. Here are my lab results: - WBC: 11.0 - RBC: 3.53 - Hemoglobin: 12.3 - Hematocrit: 33.5 - MCV: 94.9 - MCH: 34.8 - MCHC: 36.7 - RDW-CV: 11.9 - Platelet count: 272 - MPV: 8.9
Answers (1)
7/2/2025, 1:40:44 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about your lab results, especially with your ongoing symptoms following gallbladder surgery. Here’s a summary of the key points regarding your situation:
- Lab Results Overview: Your white blood cell count (WBC) is slightly elevated, but other values, including your red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin, and hematocrit, indicate mild anemia, which you’ve noted has been a persistent issue for you.
- Symptoms and Context: The pain in your right flank and upper right quadrant is significant, particularly as you are recovering from surgery. However, the normal ultrasound findings and lab results suggest that there may not be an immediate serious concern.
Explanation
- White Blood Cells (WBC): An elevated WBC count can indicate inflammation or infection, but in isolation, it does not provide a definitive diagnosis.
- Red Blood Cells (RBC) and Hemoglobin Levels: Your RBC count is on the lower side, which is consistent with anemia. Since this has been a known issue for you without previous complications, it's essential to monitor but not panic.
- Post-Surgery Considerations: Given that you’ve just had gallbladder surgery, it’s normal to experience some changes in your body as it heals. However, pain in the upper right quadrant could still be worth investigating further based on your history.
Next Steps
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your pain levels. If they worsen significantly, particularly with the onset of new symptoms (like fever, nausea, or vomiting), it would be more critical to seek further evaluation.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you’re staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet, which can support your recovery and overall health.
- Follow-Up with Primary Care Provider (PCP): Rather than returning to the emergency room immediately, consider contacting your PCP. Share your lab results and specific concerns about ongoing pain and lower RBC levels. They may recommend further tests to assess your anemia and any additional imaging based on your symptoms.
- Keep a Symptom Diary: Document your pain levels, any other symptoms, and dietary habits over the next week. This information will be useful in future consultations.
If you feel that your pain is worsening or are experiencing new concerning symptoms, don't hesitate to seek medical help again. Your health and concerns are a priority, and ongoing evaluation will help ensure the best care as you navigate your recovery from Long Covid and your recent surgery.
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