The Rarity of Healthy Patients
I’m a 35-year-old female, standing at 5'6" and weighing 165 pounds. I’m not on any medications and I don’t consume alcohol or drugs. Recently, I underwent some routine blood tests, the first in around eight years. My main question is: If my blood results come back normal and I have no health complaints, does that mean it’s time to conclude the appointment? During every visit, I express my concerns, even though my trainer and nutritionist don't seem to respond to them. Since I pay for these services out of pocket, I am quite committed to my health. The feedback I consistently receive is along the lines of, "You’re healthy; we don’t encounter many patients as healthy as you." While I appreciate the compliment, I can’t help but wonder if discussing weight is considered a sensitive topic in the absence of any issues highlighted in my blood work. Here are my test results: - Cholesterol: 160 - LDL: 86 - HDL: 64 - Triglycerides: 86 - A1C: 4.8
Answers (1)
7/19/2025, 7:10:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great to hear that you are engaged with your health and proactive about routine check-ups. Your recent blood tests indicate that you’re in a generally good place health-wise, particularly with cholesterol levels and blood sugar readings. This can be encouraging! Here’s how to approach your situation:
Summary of Main Points:
- Normal blood test results are reassuring, but they don’t mean you should stop monitoring your health.
- It’s important to have discussions about weight and overall health, even if tests come back normal.
- Establish a clear focus on your personal health goals in future visits.
Explanation:
Your blood test results suggest a healthy cardiovascular profile, which is a positive sign. Here’s a breakdown of your results:
- Cholesterol: 160 mg/dL is considered desirable.
- LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): 86 mg/dL is within optimal range.
- HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): 64 mg/dL is also good, as higher levels are protective against heart disease.
- Triglycerides: 86 mg/dL is normal.
- A1C: 4.8% indicates good blood sugar levels.
You mentioned a desire to discuss weight, which is indeed a valid concern. Weight management can be sensitive, but it is directly related to overall health, even when tests are normal.
Next Steps:
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Communicate Clearly: At your next appointment, express your desire to discuss weight management and any specific health goals. Don’t hesitate to ask for tailored advice or strategies to align with your fitness aspirations.
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Set Goals: Consider identifying specific health goals beyond just weight; for example, improving endurance, strength, or dietary habits. Highlight these areas in your consultations to ensure a comprehensive approach.
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Seek Support: If you feel your current supports (trainer, nutritionist) aren’t addressing your concerns, consider seeking a second opinion or finding professionals who emphasize a holistic view of health that includes weight discussions respectfully.
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Continuous Monitoring: Keep up with regular check-ups every year, even if results are normal. Health can change over time, and ongoing assessments are key.
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Stay Informed: Educate yourself about healthy weight ranges for your height and how factors like body composition play a role in overall health, not just numbers on a scale.
Your commitment to your health is commendable, and it’s important to advocate for yourself in medical and wellness discussions. This will empower you to achieve your health goals effectively.
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