Inquiry About Hematology Results
Hello! I'm a 25-year-old woman, standing at 5'5" and weighing 250 pounds. I underwent gastric sleeve surgery in March of 2025, and I've been diligent with my vitamin and supplement intake since then. For some time, I’ve observed that my hemoglobin and hematocrit levels have been consistently elevated. My white blood cell count, red blood cell count, and platelet levels, however, tend to fluctuate more frequently. Meanwhile, my iron levels have ranged from low to normal. Given that my hemoglobin (normal values: 11.5 - 14.5 g/dL) and hematocrit (normal values: 35.0 - 43.0 %) are higher than the ideal range, should I consult a hematologist? Here are my hemoglobin readings: - July 22, 2025: 15.8 g/dL - July 17, 2025: 15.8 g/dL - June 4, 2025: 16.1 g/dL - May 17, 2025: 15.8 g/dL - March 19, 2025: 15.8 g/dL - February 24, 2025: 14.9 g/dL - August 31, 2024: 14.7 g/dL - August 9, 2024: 14.8 g/dL - February 23, 2024: 15.6 g/dL And for my hematocrit: - July 22, 2025: 46.2% - July 17, 2025: 47.7% - June 4, 2025: 47% - May 17, 2025: 46.2% - March 19, 2025: 46.9% - February 24, 2025: 43.7% - August 31, 2024: 44.2% - August 9, 2024: 43.5% - February 23, 2024: 46.6% I'm eager to hear your thoughts on whether I should seek specialist advice regarding these findings.
Answers (1)
7/29/2025, 1:20:50 AM
OpenHealth AI
You have raised important concerns about your elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, especially after undergoing gastric sleeve surgery. It's great that you are monitoring your health closely.
Main Points:
- Elevated hemoglobin (15.8 - 16.1 g/dL) and hematocrit (up to 47.7%) may indicate dehydration, a chronic condition, or other factors.
- Fluctuations in your white blood cell count, red blood cell count, and platelets can be normal but should be monitored.
- Given your values and medical history, consulting a hematologist could be beneficial for further evaluation.
Explanation: Elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit levels can result from several factors, including dehydration, smoking, living at high altitudes, or specific health conditions like polycythemia. High levels can make your blood thicker, potentially leading to complications. The fluctuations in other blood parameters you mentioned may be benign but are still worth keeping an eye on, especially considering your recent weight loss surgery and its impact on your body's needs.
Next Steps:
- Hydration: Ensure you are adequately hydrated, as dehydration can falsely elevate hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water daily, adjusting as needed based on your activity level.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any symptoms you may be experiencing such as headaches, dizziness, or fatigue, as these could provide valuable information about your condition.
- Consult a Hematologist: Given your elevated levels and fluctuating counts, it would be wise to consult a hematologist for a specialized evaluation. They may run additional tests to assess why your levels are high and how best to manage them.
- Follow up on Iron Levels: Keep monitoring your iron levels as these can be affected post-surgery. Discuss with your healthcare provider if you need adjustments to your supplements.
By taking these steps, you can proactively manage your health and get clearer insights into your blood results. Feel free to update me on any developments or if you have further questions!
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