Should I Worry About My Symptoms?
I’m a 26-year-old male, weighing 235 pounds and standing at 6 feet tall. I live with bipolar disorder and am prescribed lithium and Abilify. However, my main concern centers around my lab results. Frequently, my white blood cell and absolute neutrophil counts are elevated, while my mean platelet volume consistently remains low. Although my platelet count is elevated, I have been experiencing a range of neurological symptoms over the past five years. These include difficulties with balance, an insensitivity to heat, loss of bladder control, episodes of numbness and tingling, muscle spasms, and more recently, weakness on the right side of my body extending from my face downwards. It has been three years since my last MRI. Just yesterday, I visited the hospital, and a stroke was excluded as a possibility. Given that there is a family history of multiple sclerosis, lupus, and leukemia, should I be worried about my current health situation?
Answers (1)
7/16/2025, 9:01:38 AM
OpenHealth AI
You have numerous complex symptoms and elevated lab results that understandably raise your concerns. While it's good news that a stroke has been ruled out, there are still important considerations to address regarding your neurological symptoms and lab findings.
Explanation
Elevated white blood cell and neutrophil counts can suggest an inflammatory response or an infection, while low mean platelet volume and high platelet count may have various interpretations based on context. Your neurological symptoms—particularly with your family history of multiple sclerosis (MS)—do warrant careful monitoring. Symptoms like balance issues, insensitivity to heat, bladder control problems, numbness, tingling, and unilateral weakness can indeed be associated with MS or other neurological conditions.
Next Steps
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Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting changes or patterns. Include how often they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information will be helpful for future assessments.
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Follow-Up Imaging: Since it has been three years since your last MRI, consider discussing with your healthcare provider the option of scheduling a new MRI. This can provide updated images of your brain and spinal cord to help evaluate any ongoing issues.
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Regular Lab Monitoring: Stay proactive with regular lab tests to monitor your white blood cell and platelet counts, especially with your known psychiatric medications (lithium and Abilify), which can affect these levels.
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Symptom Management: Explore management strategies for your neurological symptoms. This might include physical therapy to help with balance issues and discuss any other potential symptomatic treatments with your healthcare provider.
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Consult a Specialist: If you haven’t already, consider consulting a neurologist who can perform a thorough evaluation, including tests specific to conditions like MS or lupus, considering your family history.
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Open Communication: Maintain an ongoing dialogue with your healthcare providers about all your symptoms and any changes. This ensures a holistic approach to your health.
Conclusion
While there are multiple factors at play, prioritizing symptom monitoring, follow-up imaging, and communication with specialists can help ensure that you stay on top of your health needs. Remember that your concerns are valid, and taking action will empower you in managing your health effectively. If any symptoms worsen or new symptoms arise, make sure to address those swiftly.
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