Concerns Over Lab Results and New Doctor's Perspective
At 40 years old, I’m a non-smoker, standing at 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 160 pounds, maintaining an active lifestyle. My medical history includes polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a past diagnosis of ovarian cancer, varicose veins which have caused blood clots in my legs, and the presence of two sizable fibroids attached to my remaining ovary. Recently, I transitioned to a concierge medical practice where I underwent comprehensive lab testing. My former physician suggested that I might be suffering from an iron deficiency; however, my new doctor asserts that this is unlikely due to my elevated red blood cell (RBC) count. Her primary focus appears to be my weight, which is 15 pounds over what she deems healthy – a separate topic entirely. Here are the results from my laboratory tests: - RBC: 5.38H (normal range 5.38-5.10 million/ul) - Hematocrit: 45.9 H (normal range 35-45%) - MCH: 25.7 L (normal range 27-33%) - MCHC: 30.1 L (normal range 32-36 g/DL) A new concern has arisen regarding a notable increase in my cholesterol, now at 223 (previously it was around 150), including high levels of LDL, non-HDL, elevated apolipoprotein B, and HS CRP indicating inflammation. Considering that I am investing $2000 annually for the benefits of concierge care, I am troubled that the sole response to my lab results was, "you are not anemic; try increasing carbohydrates and reducing protein." It feels as if there’s something significant going on, but I am uncertain about what it could be.
Answers (1)
7/11/2025, 2:31:20 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about your lab results, especially given your medical history and the changes in your health markers. Here’s a summary of your main points and actionable suggestions based on the information provided.
Key Points:
- Your RBC and hematocrit levels are elevated while your MCH and MCHC are low, suggesting some underlying issue possibly related to your iron status or blood health.
- Your cholesterol levels have significantly increased, particularly with high LDL and inflammation markers present.
Explanation:
- Elevated Red Blood Cells (RBC): While high RBC counts can occur for various reasons, they may not always correlate with iron deficiency. The low MCH and MCHC suggest that while you are not anemic, your red blood cells may not be functioning optimally in transporting oxygen.
- Cholesterol Rise: An increase in total cholesterol, especially elevated LDL, can indicate a higher risk for cardiovascular issues. The presence of inflammation (shown by HS CRP) further complicates matters as it may indicate an underlying process that needs to be addressed.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily record of any symptoms you may have, such as fatigue, unusual pain, or changes in weight or mood. This can provide valuable information for you and your healthcare provider.
-
Dietary Adjustments:
- Consider adopting a heart-healthy diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats (like those from nuts and olive oil).
- Specifically focus on reducing saturated fats found in red meats and full-fat dairy, while increasing fiber from plant sources.
- It might be beneficial to speak with a nutritionist to create a tailored plan that addresses both cholesterol management and your unique conditions, including PCOS.
-
Follow-Up on Lab Results:
- Request clarification from your current doctor regarding the significance of your lab results, particularly concerning your RBC, hematocrit, and inflammatory markers.
- Consider asking for further tests, like a lipid profile and specific inflammation markers, or a comprehensive metabolic panel to see if there are other underlying issues.
-
Physical Activity: Continue regular physical activity, focusing on a balanced approach that includes both cardiovascular and strength-building exercises. This can help manage weight and improve your cholesterol levels.
-
Evaluate Medical Approaches: If your concerns remain unaddressed, it’s worthwhile to seek a second opinion or consult with a specialist, such as a hematologist for blood-related issues or a cardiologist for heart health and cholesterol management.
Taking a proactive approach by monitoring your health and engaging in lifestyle adjustments can greatly empower you in managing the situation. Please continue to communicate openly with your healthcare providers to ensure your concerns are adequately addressed.
Related Questions
My Relationship with Milk Consumption
For nearly two decades, I have predominantly relied on milk as my primary source of hydration, consuming around five liters daily. Although I recognize that this reliance might not be the healthiest choice, my low appetite has perpetually left me underweight. In the past, I attempted to transition to drinking water; however, I noticed a concerning drop in weight along with persistent fatigue. My inquiry is whether there exists a more nutritious method to obtain calories without resorting to solid foods, and ideally, without incurring high costs?
When Can I Expect to Drive Again?
I’m a 35-year-old who suffered a spiral fracture in my right leg affecting both the fibula and tibia. Five weeks post-surgery, I've begun my rehabilitation journey, having undergone physical therapy for three weeks now. I’ve noticed that my leg is beginning to regain sensation, with improved control over my ankle and feeling returning to the sole of my foot. Given this progress, what is a realistic timeframe for when I might be able to drive safely once more?
Seeking Help for Ongoing Health Issues
I am reaching out in desperation for assistance! I'm wondering if anyone else has encountered similar health concerns or could recommend medications or specialists I should consider consulting. I'm truly at a loss and need guidance. As a 23-year-old male vegetarian weighing around 48 kg and standing at 5’4”, I have struggled with being underweight since my childhood. This condition has left me feeling utterly drained and overwhelmed. I’m eager to make a change but feel lost regarding where to begin or which healthcare professional to consult. In my youth, I was diagnosed with asthma, which has significantly improved; however, I continue to deal with low immunity, as I frequently catch colds and coughs from minor exposure to cold environments. Additionally, I’ve noticed that for the past few years, my body temperature feels abnormally high compared to those around me. I experience heat more acutely than my peers. Previously, I was quite active and could walk 4–5 kilometers daily without difficulty. Nowadays, even a short walk of 1–2 kilometers or climbing a few flights of stairs leaves me out of breath and exhausted. Even on days of little physical exertion, I feel weak and lethargic, as though all my vitality has been drained. My appetite has always been low, despite my efforts to increase it. I struggle to consume what would be considered an average meal for someone my age. Just two chapatis or a small bowl of rice or lentils fills me up completely, and attempting to eat more causes discomfort. I often find it perplexing how others manage to eat such larger portions. Dining out has become a challenge for me since even half a plate feels overwhelmingly full. Being extremely slender has made it difficult to find clothing that fits well and has adversely impacted my confidence over the years. For around 15 years, I have hesitated to take photographs of myself. Social and professional circles often regard me as younger than I am, sometimes even as a child, which has contributed to my feelings of invisibility and insecurity. My sensitivity to heat has intensified over the last few years. In seemingly normal room temperatures, I start sweating profusely while those around me remain comfortable. During cold weather, even in temperatures as low as 8°C, I don’t wear warm clothing, as I sweat excessively and feel anxious about overheating. The discomfort can escalate to a point where I feel faint from the heat. In my workplace, where the air conditioning is set at a standard temperature, I find it challenging. I begin to sweat visibly, leaving my clothes damp and prompting coworkers to inquire about my wellbeing. I often feel breathless and anxious that I might collapse if I remain there too long. This makes it very difficult to stay at the office or use public transportation, as even air-conditioned buses can feel uncomfortably warm to me. Over the past year, my situation has deteriorated further. I can no longer tolerate hot or even mildly spiced home-cooked meals, which I used to enjoy without issues. Now, even mildly spiced foods lead to excessive sweating, reddening of my face, and an intense burning sensation in my mouth, akin to consuming overly spicy dishes. As a result, my food intake has diminished even more. I often face ridicule for my dietary limitations, and I’m growing weary of trying to explain my condition, especially when my own family doesn't fully grasp the depth of my struggles, which adds to my distress. I am sharing my story because I truly need help. I wish to identify the underlying issues with my health and seek proper medical attention. If anyone has experienced similar problems or can recommend a suitable type of medical professional to consult, I would greatly appreciate your guidance and support during this challenging time. Thank you. 😭
Is an 85-pound Weight Healthy for a Woman Who is 5’1"?
A friend of mine stands at 5 feet 1 inch tall and has a delicate frame, tipping the scales at 85 pounds. At first glance, her weight seemed surprisingly low, but I realized she doesn’t appear overly thin. Naturally, I became a bit worried as I believed her weight might be below the healthy range; however, she insists that she feels perfectly fine. She maintains an active lifestyle, exercising regularly and following a nutritious diet, yet she doesn't overindulge. This leaves me pondering whether her health is indeed in check.
Interpretation Request for Recent Spinal NM Bone Scan
Hello, doctors. I'm reaching out for your insights regarding a recent NM bone scan of my spine. I've previously undergone a similar scan in 2022, and I'd like to compare the two. To provide context, I am a 29-year-old female weighing 100 kg, and I've been diagnosed with conditions including endplate sclerosis, spinal stenosis, cervical bone spurs, degenerative disc disease (DDD), and mild scoliosis. My medication regimen consists of several prescriptions. Unfortunately, my next appointment with my general practitioner is still a few weeks away, so I would appreciate your assessments on how the latest scan compares to the previous one. Thank you in advance for your help!