OpenHealth Q&A

Seeking Assistance in Identifying Potential Health Concerns

**Adult Male** I have been experiencing various health difficulties for the past five weeks, yet my healthcare providers do not seem overly concerned. This leaves me in a position where I must attempt to decipher the situation independently, which is proving to be quite challenging. **Symptoms:** - A persistent cough and difficulty breathing. - Unusual sensations in my chest and throat, reminiscent of a strong minty freshness, combined with an urge to cough. - An irregular heartbeat, particularly noticeable during the night. - Suspected secondary polycythemia and erythromelalgia, characterized by redness in my hands and feet, and blood pooling throughout my body under pressure. - General bodily and muscular fatigue. - Possible small fiber neuropathy, indicated by intermittent tingling, pain, and varying sensations in my arms and legs, which seem to exacerbate with physical activity. **Echocardiogram Results:** The findings indicated that most parameters fall within normal limits. The only noteworthy elevation was in the LVOT VTI, which assesses the stroke volume, though no concerns were raised about it. A diagnosis of trivial tricuspid regurgitation was noted; while it's common, it still causes some worry for me. **Blood Test Findings:** - LDL: mildly elevated at 112 - Triglycerides: mildly elevated at 133 - Bilirubin: mildly elevated at 1.5 - AST: 22 - ALT: mildly elevated at 35 - ALK Phos: 63 - Albumin: 5.1 - Creatinine: 1.0 WBC: 6.6 RBC: mildly elevated at 5.63 Hemoglobin: elevated at 16.8 Hematocrit: elevated at 49% Platelets: slightly low at 190 MPV: elevated at 12.3 All other white blood cell percentages are within normal ranges. HGA1C: 5.1% Fasting Glucose: 89 TSH: 1.607 **Chest X-Ray:** The results showed no abnormalities; however, I've read that X-rays may miss certain conditions due to their limited resolution, which dampens my reassurance. Pulse oximetry recorded a level of 99% in the office. **My Theories and Speculations:** I find my attention drawn particularly toward the elevated levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cells, which seem to correspond with symptoms of polycythemia (likely secondary). While online sources suggest that hypoxia often causes this, my oxygen saturation was 99%, which contributes to my confusion. **Possible Conditions Ranked by Probability:** 1. **Pulmonary Disease/Pulmonary Fibrosis:** The chronic cough and shortness of breath are primary symptoms. Elevated hemoglobin is frequently associated with these conditions. 2. **Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease/Cirrhosis:** Some liver enzyme levels were normal and some slightly elevated. Additionally, chronic cough and red hands are often shared symptoms. 3. **Hemochromatosis:** This condition involves excess iron, which aligns with several of my symptoms and elevated hemoglobin levels. 4. **Sleep Apnea:** I snore and have fluctuated in weight, being slightly overweight before losing some weight (currently 183 lbs down from a peak of 203 lbs). Elevated hemoglobin levels and polycythemia can be present in this disorder. 5. **Cardiac Issues:** Although the echocardiogram results were fine, I am awaiting results from two additional tests, leaving some uncertainty. 6. **Toxins or Nutritional Deficiencies:** Some of my symptoms may correspond with these possibilities. 7. **Hormonal Imbalances:** Symptoms such as increased heart rate can be indicative of this issue. 8. **Autoimmune Conditions:** Most related cases are typically linked with anemia, making me dubious as my readings show the opposite. 9. **Diabetes:** Many of my symptoms are suggestive of diabetes, yet my blood sugar readings remain within the normal range. I wonder if it could be insulin resistance lurking beneath the surface. I plan to begin consulting with specialists and undergoing tests for these potential conditions, but I would greatly appreciate any insights or guidance you could provide to help me identify what I might be overlooking or to serve as a solid starting point.

Answers (1)

7/14/2025, 3:21:08 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you have been grappling with a complex array of symptoms, and it’s understandable to feel uncertain given your experiences. Your detailed investigation into potential health concerns shows that you are being proactive about your well-being. Let's break down what you've shared and focus on prioritized actions you can take to address your symptoms and health concerns effectively.

Summary of Key Points

1. You have persistent cough, difficulty breathing, unusual chest sensations, an irregular heartbeat, and fatigue.
2. Blood tests show mildly elevated hemoglobin, hematocrit, and other markers, prompting concerns about potential underlying conditions.
3. You are already seeking specialist consultations and further tests, which is a crucial step.

Explanation

The symptoms you've described, particularly the persistent cough, difficulty breathing, and changes in heart rhythm, warrant thorough investigation. It's commendable that you're thinking critically about your health, but before diving deeper into self-diagnosis, let's prioritize specific actions based on your current situation.

Priority Next Steps

1. Assess Your Symptoms:

   • Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms: note when they occur, their intensity, and any triggers you observe. This can provide valuable information for doctors.

2. Follow Up on Specialist Consultations:

   • Ensure you have scheduled consultations with specialists relevant to your symptoms, such as a pulmonologist (for lung issues) and a cardiologist (for heart rhythm concerns). Discuss the significance of the elevated hemoglobin and your symptoms linked to potential polycythemia.

3. Lifestyle Modifications:

   • Focus on healthy habits, such as a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, which may improve overall health.
   • Stay hydrated, as proper hydration can help with circulation and overall energy levels.
   • Engage in light to moderate physical activity as tolerated, which can help reduce fatigue and maintain cardiovascular health.

4. Monitor Your Heart Rate and Breathing:

   • Use a reliable pulse oximeter at home to monitor your oxygen saturation regularly, especially if you experience new or worsening symptoms, like increased shortness of breath.

5. Consider Sleep Health:

   • Since you mentioned snoring and fluctuations in weight, consider addressing potential sleep apnea. A sleep study may be beneficial if this is suspected.

6. Stay Informed but Cautious:

   • While it's good to research symptoms, avoid jumping to conclusions based on online searches. Instead, share specific concerns with your healthcare providers, who can advise you more accurately based on clinical evidence.

Reassurance

It's understandable to feel concerned when dealing with complex health issues. The fact that you are seeking help and considering potential conditions is a positive step towards better health. Continue to be an advocate for yourself, and don't hesitate to ask your providers for explanations or clarifications regarding any tests or symptoms. You are not alone in this, and with persistent efforts, you’ll be better equipped to manage your health effectively.

Feel free to circle back with more questions as you continue on this journey.