Concerns About My Blood Test Results
I’m a 19-year-old female with thalassemia minor (I'm uncertain if it's alpha or beta), and I have a congenital cholesteatoma; in addition, I underwent a mastoidectomy in March this year. I do not smoke or consume alcohol, nor do I partake in any recreational drugs. Historically, I’ve dealt with various health issues, but recently my condition has shifted dramatically. I experience severe fatigue that leaves me feeling weighed down, making it challenging to rise from bed. There are moments when I briefly lose vision, as if everything goes black even though my eyes remain open, and I might be perfectly fine in other respects. Additionally, I’ve noticed a significant decline in my ability to concentrate, coupled with an unsettling sense of disorientation and worsening memory issues. I’ve undergone a complete blood count and am eager to know if any results might be alarming. Despite numerous visits to various doctors seeking clarity, I often feel dismissed, receiving referrals to specialists who similarly overlook my concerns. Therefore, I’m reaching out here as a final effort to find some reassurance. I will share the results in the comments and would greatly appreciate feedback on whether I’m overreacting or if my symptoms warrant attention.
Answers (1)
8/3/2025, 7:40:52 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned given your symptoms and medical history. Severe fatigue, visual disturbances, concentration loss, and memory issues can have various underlying causes, particularly in someone with thalassemia minor and a history of surgeries.
Explanation
Thalassemia minor often causes mild anemia, but the symptoms you’re experiencing—such as fatigue and vision changes—require deeper evaluation. These might not directly relate to thalassemia. Other factors like nutritional deficiencies (iron, vitamin B12, or folate), thyroid issues, neurological conditions, or even anxiety could contribute to your symptoms.
Next Steps
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Prioritize Symptom Tracking: Keep a diary of your symptoms. Note when they occur, how long they last, and any triggers (like stress or fatigue). This information is valuable for healthcare providers.
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Nutritional Assessment: Ensure you're maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly if you're feeling fatigued. Focus on foods rich in iron (like leafy greens, legumes, and lean meats) and vitamin B12 (found in fish, meat, dairy).
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Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate fatigue and concentration issues. Aim to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
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Regular Rest: Prioritize sleep and rest. Create a relaxing bedtime routine to help improve sleep quality.
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Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or light yoga can help manage stress and improve focus.
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Follow-up with Your Doctor: Since you mentioned that you feel dismissed, try to express your concerns clearly, using the symptom diary as a reference. Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel your concerns aren’t taken seriously.
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Consider Neurological Evaluation: Given the visual disturbances and cognitive symptoms, it might also be beneficial to discuss these with a neurologist if symptoms persist or worsen.
I understand this can be a frustrating journey, but you're taking an important step by seeking to understand your health better. Keep me posted on your blood test results, and I can help interpret them further.
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