OpenHealth Q&A

Interpreting Blood Test Results

Can anyone provide clarity on these blood test results? According to my physician, the only abnormal finding pertains to folate levels, which are generally low for me, but I have a suspicion that other levels might also be out of the ordinary. I've been dealing with troubling symptoms such as rectal bleeding, episodes of fainting, and persistent dizziness, which has left me frustrated and seeking answers. Here are the details from my recent blood work: - Serum potassium: 4.2 mmol/L (Normal range: 3.5 - 5.3) - Serum sodium: 141 mmol/L (Normal range: 133 - 146) - Serum urea: 4.6 mmol/L (Normal range: 2.5 - 7.8) - Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) 87 mL/min; indicating CKD stage G2 if kidney damage is present. - Serum creatinine: 80 umol/L (Normal range: 45 - 84) - Serum TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): 1.58 miu/L (Normal range: 0.3 - 5.5) - indicates no primary thyroid disorder. - C-reactive protein (CRP): 13 mg/L - Elevated above the normal limit (0 - 5). - Serum Vitamin B12: 310 ng/L (Normal range: 197 - 771) - Immunoglobulin A: 3.75 g/L - Also above the normal limit (0.8 - 2.8). - Serum ferritin: 212 ng/ml - Above the normal limit (15 - 150). - CRP: 14 mg/L - Again, above the normal threshold. - Serum globulin: 34 g/L (Normal range: 25 - 41) - Serum alkaline phosphatase: 68 iu/L (Normal range: 35 - 104) - Total bilirubin: 9 umol/L (Normal range: 0 - 21) - Alanine aminotransferase (ALT): 24 iu/L (Normal range: 0 - 40) - Total protein: 74 g/L (Normal range: 60 - 80) - LDL cholesterol: 2.69 mmol/L - Non-fasted results. Refer to shared care guidelines for context. - Cholesterol to HDL ratio: 4.2 mmol/mmol - Non-HDL cholesterol: 3.12 mmol/L - HDL cholesterol: 0.98 mmol/L - Optimal for females is >1.2 mmol/L. - Total cholesterol: 4.1 mmol/L; - Serum triglycerides: 0.93 mmol/L (Normal range: 0.5 - 1.7) - Serum folate: 1.2 ng/ml - Below the reference limit (3.8 - 26.8). - Hemoglobin A1c: 23 mmol/mol (Normal range: 20 - 41) - Mean cell volume: 93.5 fL (Normal range: 83 - 101) - Hematocrit: 0.391 (Normal range: 0.36 - 0.46) - Red blood cell count: 4.18 × 10^12/L (Normal range: 3.8 - 4.8) - Mean cell hemoglobin concentration: 34 g/dL (Calculated from 340.0 g/L) - Mean cell hemoglobin: 31.8 pg (Normal range: 27 - 32) - Neutrophil count: 4.33 × 10^9/L (Normal range: 2 - 7) - Total white blood cell count: 8.57 × 10^9/L (Normal range: 4 - 10) - Complete blood count has been conducted. - Platelet count: 218 × 10^9/L (Normal range: 150 - 410) - Hemoglobin concentration: 133 g/L (Normal range: 120 - 150) - Nucleated red blood cells: Not detected. - Monocyte count: 0.85 × 10^9/L (Normal range: 0.2 - 1) - Lymphocyte count: 3.2 × 10^9/L (Slightly above normal) - Basophil count: 0.04 × 10^9/L (Normal range: 0.02 - 0.1) - Eosinophil count: 0.15 × 10^9/L (Normal range: 0.02 - 0.5) I'm eager to hear any insights or interpretations that can shed light on my results and my current health issues.

Answers (1)

7/5/2025, 11:30:54 PM

OpenHealth AI

Your blood test results indicate a few areas of concern, particularly regarding folate levels, C-reactive protein (CRP), and other elevated markers. Given your troubling symptoms—rectal bleeding, fainting, and persistent dizziness—it's crucial to recognize how these results might connect to your overall health.

Key Insights on Your Blood Test Results:

1. Folate Levels: Your serum folate is notably low. Folate is important for red blood cell production and overall cell function, and low levels can lead to anemia, which might contribute to feelings of dizziness and fainting.

2. C-reactive Protein (CRP): Elevated CRP levels indicate inflammation in the body. While this can be due to a range of factors, it’s essential to investigate the underlying cause, especially with your symptoms.

3. Immunoglobulin A (IgA): Your IgA level is elevated, which could signify an immune response; however, the significance depends on your overall clinical picture.

4. Serum Ferritin: Elevated ferritin levels could indicate inflammation or iron overload; this needs to be interpreted in context with the rest of your results and symptoms.

5. Thyroid and Kidney Function: Your TSH is in the normal range, suggesting no thyroid dysfunction. The eGFR is slightly reduced, which could indicate mild kidney issues, especially when combined with your symptoms.

Actionable Next Steps:

1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed symptom diary noting the frequency and severity of your rectal bleeding, fainting episodes, and dizziness. This documentation can help pinpoint triggers or patterns.

2. Increase Folate Intake: Incorporate folate-rich foods into your diet, like leafy greens, lentils, beans, and fortified cereals. If necessary, consider a folate supplement after discussing it further with your healthcare provider.

3. Investigate the Cause of Inflammation: Given your elevated CRP, explore potential causes. Consider dietary factors, potential infections, or chronic conditions. Tracking these changes can help guide further testing or consultations.

4. Hydrate Well and Rest: Dehydration can exacerbate dizziness. Ensure you’re adequately hydrated and rest when needed to help manage fainting spells.

5. Schedule Follow-up: It would be prudent to schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss these abnormal results and your presenting symptoms. Bring your symptom diary to help guide the conversation.

6. Seek Guidance on Rectal Bleeding: Since you're experiencing rectal bleeding, it’s important to discuss this specifically as it could relate to gastrointestinal issues that may warrant further evaluation (such as a colorectal examination).

By focusing on these prioritized actions, you can take steps toward understanding and addressing your health concerns. If you experience worsening symptoms or have any new concerns, seeking immediate medical advice is essential.