Seeking Insight on Blood Tests While Managing EoE and Constipation
Hello everyone, I’m reaching out for some assistance in understanding my symptoms and recent blood test results. A quick overview of my details: - Age: 36 - Weight: 125 lbs - Height: 5’5" - Non-smoker - Current medications include PPIs, Colace, MiraLAX, and magnesium glycinate. - Recently commenced using a Fluticasone inhaler as of August 14, 2025. **Symptom Summary:** I have been experiencing sharp pains in the upper abdomen, around the rib area, as well as rib tenderness, decreased appetite, and general unease in that region. **Diagnosis Information:** I was diagnosed with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) on August 8, 2025. **Timeline of Events:** In June of this year, I woke to a sudden sharp pain in my right ribs that radiated to my back. Initially, I thought it was due to gas. The pain persisted in the right rib area below my sternum, prompting a visit to a gastroenterologist. After conducting an ultrasound and a CT scan with contrast to investigate any gallbladder issues, the results appeared normal. Throughout this episode, the sharp rib pains have been intermittent, occurring without a clear pattern and typically lasting only a few seconds. Moreover, I've been experiencing constipation, for which I have been relying on MiraLAX and Colace. A recent EGD revealed my EoE diagnosis, and I was informed that my eosinophil count is above 30. As for my bloodwork, everything came back within normal parameters, except for two readings: - **Total Protein:** 9.1 g/dL (High) - Date: August 16, 2025, 12:02 p.m. MST - Reference Range: 6.0 g/dL - 8.0 g/dL - **Albumin:** 4.9 g/dL - Date: August 16, 2025, 12:02 p.m. MST - Reference Range: 3.6 g/dL - 5.1 g/dL My appetite has been minimal, which has led me to research my symptoms online. Several articles have suggested the possibility of multiple myeloma, and it has left me feeling quite anxious. Can anyone help clarify what my blood results might indicate in light of my symptoms? I recently relocated to Arizona, and I’ve never faced these health challenges before; everything began just a month after my move. Any suggestions or guidance you could offer would be immensely valuable. Thank you!
Answers (1)
8/17/2025, 6:02:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm here to help clarify your blood test results and address some of your symptoms related to Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) and constipation. It's understandable to feel anxious, especially when you are experiencing uncertainty about your health.
Key Points:
- Your total protein level is slightly elevated.
- Your albumin level is within the normal range.
- Symptoms like sharp abdominal pain and decreased appetite may relate to your EoE and not necessarily indicate a serious condition.
Explanation:
-
Total Protein (9.1 g/dL): This level is higher than the normal range. Elevated protein levels can occur for various reasons—some benign, while others may require further attention. In individuals with inflammatory conditions, like EoE, protein levels could reflect the body's response to inflammation.
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Albumin (4.9 g/dL): Your albumin level is within normal limits, which is reassuring. Albumin is a type of protein made by the liver, and it's often used as an indicator of liver function and nutritional status. A normal albumin level suggests that your body is likely managing nutritional needs adequately despite your decreased appetite.
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Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE): This condition causes inflammation of the esophagus and can lead to symptoms like chest pain or discomfort, decreased appetite, and difficulties swallowing food. It's crucial to manage EoE with appropriate dietary changes and medications as prescribed.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, including when the sharp pains occur and any food triggers associated with your EoE. This could help identify patterns and inform discussions with your healthcare provider.
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Dietary Management: Work with your healthcare team to adjust your diet in a way that minimizes triggers for EoE. Elemental diets or elimination diets are common approaches.
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Stay Hydrated: With your constipation issues, ensure you are drinking enough water along with the medications like MiraLAX and Colace. This can help alleviate constipation.
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Follow-Up on Blood Results: Given your elevated total protein, it’s wise to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may want to repeat tests or explore other causes for the elevation, especially considering your symptoms.
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Manage Anxiety: If your health anxiety persists, consider speaking to a mental health professional or a support group. It can be helpful to talk through your concerns with someone trained to help.
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Lifestyle Adjustments: Since you recently relocated and may be facing environmental changes, ensure you are taking care of your stress levels. Techniques such as mindfulness, gentle exercise, or connecting with local support groups for chronic conditions can be beneficial.
Trust in the process of healthcare and continuous communication with your provider to navigate these symptoms. If you have worsening pain, symptoms of shortness of breath, or if your appetite continues to significantly decline, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention. Let me know if there's anything else you'd like to explore!
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