Feeling Anxious About My Lab Work
Hi there! I'm a 26-year-old female, standing at 5’9” and weighing 210 pounds. Recently, I had some lab tests done while only taking ibuprofen to manage my ongoing plantar fasciitis (and don’t get me started on that!). Although the majority of my lab results came back typical, a few are causing me concern. My ALT level was recorded at 13 IU/mL, BUN/Creatine at 10.0, and my Vitamin D 25 OH at 16.9 ng/mL, all of which fall below the normal range. When I looked further into these results, I learned that they might indicate potential kidney issues. Additionally, I have a tendency to bruise very easily; for instance, if I accidentally bump into a piece of furniture, I often end up with a bruise by the next day. More severe impacts leave me with deep, large bruises that can linger for weeks. Is there a possibility that my bruising could be connected to these lab results? It's now been over a month since my tests, and my doctor has yet to contact me about the findings. I initially sought medical advice due to my worries regarding the bruising. This marks my second visit to the doctor for this issue. On my first visit, the physician mentioned that I have "delicate veins," which felt rather vague. However, all my Automated Hematology results came back normal or within the expected range. I would greatly appreciate any insights or advice regarding my situation. Thank you!
Answers (1)
7/21/2025, 5:02:01 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a challenging situation, and it's understandable to feel anxious about your lab results and bruising. Let’s break down the key points and provide some guidance.
Key Points:
- Lab Results: Your ALT level, BUN/Creatinine, and Vitamin D level are below the normal range.
- Bruising: You tend to bruise easily, which you've mentioned is a concern.
- Communication: It's been over a month since your tests, and you haven’t heard back from your doctor.
Explanation:
- ALT Level: Your ALT (alanine aminotransferase) is typically used to assess liver health. A low ALT is less concerning but can indicate various factors such as malnutrition or not enough muscle mass, rather than liver issues typically associated with high levels.
- BUN/Creatinine: These tests assess kidney function. A BUN of 10.0 is generally within a normal range, hinting no immediate kidney issues.
- Vitamin D Level: A Vitamin D level of 16.9 ng/mL is low, which is also significant since Vitamin D plays a vital role in bone health and immune function. Low levels can contribute to fatigue, bone pain, and possibly impact bleeding or bruising.
- Bruising: Easy bruising can result from various factors, including low Vitamin D, fragile blood vessels, or other underlying conditions. Since your blood tests seem normal in terms of platelets and clotting factors, it might be related to the sensitivity of your skin or blood vessels.
Next Steps:
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Vitamin D Focus: Increase your Vitamin D intake. Consider supplements (typically 600-800 IU daily for adults), especially if dietary sources (like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods) seem insufficient. Regular sun exposure can also help.
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Monitor Bruising: Keep track of when and how often you bruise. Make a note of unusual occurrences, especially where you don't recall an incident. This information will be helpful for your doctor when you follow up.
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Follow Up: Reach out to your doctor or their office to check on the status of your test results. If you're feeling anxious, it’s entirely appropriate to express this and ask for clarity on your lab results and what any next steps may be.
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Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a well-rounded diet rich in nutrients, including Vitamin K (found in leafy greens), to support skin and blood vessel health, and stay hydrated. Gentle exercises may help improve circulation without aggravating your plantar fasciitis.
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Documentation: Consider keeping a diary of your symptoms, lab results, and any dietary changes or medications you’re taking. This can provide valuable context for your healthcare provider and ensure you get the comprehensive care you deserve.
Remember, you're taking important steps by seeking answers and advocating for your health. You’re not alone in feeling concerned, and it's okay to pursue these answers actively. Let me know if you need more specific advice or further assistance!
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