Concerned About My Lab Results
I am a 33-year-old female, standing at 5 feet tall and weighing 220 pounds. Currently, I am on a regimen of metformin at a dosage of 2000 mg daily, along with a weekly injection of 2 mg of Ozempic. Additionally, I take a high dose of vitamin D, specifically 50,000 mg per week. In terms of my medical history, the only significant issue I have is prediabetes. Since 2019, my calcium levels have consistently been around 10.3. However, an increase to 10.6 was noted in February 2025, accompanied by a vitamin D level of 20.00. Upon retesting in August, my calcium had risen to 11.2, while vitamin D had decreased to 16.00. All other markers relating to kidney function came back within normal ranges, but my doctor has recommended continuing with the high dose of 50,000 mg of vitamin D weekly. Other notable lab findings indicate low vitamin B12 levels and a slightly elevated creatinine level (up by 0.1), likely attributed to dehydration. In addition to a parathyroid hormone (PTH) test, what further tests should I consider requesting?
Answers (1)
9/8/2025, 5:40:47 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about your lab results, especially with fluctuations in your calcium and vitamin D levels. The information you've provided indicates a few areas to address, particularly regarding your calcium levels, vitamin D status, and vitamin B12 deficiency. Here’s a structured overview:
Main Points
- Changing Calcium and Vitamin D Levels: Your calcium levels have risen, and vitamin D levels are low despite high supplementation.
- Low Vitamin B12: This is also a concern that should be addressed for overall health.
- Possible Tests: You should consider additional tests to better understand your situation.
Explanation
- Calcium and Vitamin D: Elevated calcium levels (hypercalcemia) can occur for various reasons, including excessive vitamin D intake, certain health conditions, or issues with calcium regulation in the body. Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption, but your current levels suggest you may not be absorbing sufficient amounts despite the high dose you are taking.
- Vitamin B12: Low levels can lead to fatigue, weakness, and neurological issues. It’s important to identify the cause and consider how to supplement appropriately.
- Creatinine: A slight elevation in creatinine could point to kidney function, but it's often linked to dehydration or other transient factors.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a journal of any symptoms you experience, such as fatigue, muscle weakness, or bone pain, which could relate to your vitamin and mineral levels.
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Request Additional Tests: Discuss the following tests with your healthcare provider:
- Parathyroid Hormone (PTH): To evaluate calcium regulation.
- Vitamin B12 Level: To determine the extent of deficiency and need for supplementation.
- Folate Levels: To rule out deficiencies affecting your B12 metabolism.
- Kidney Function Tests: Further assess your kidney function, potentially including a urine test.
- 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Test: To assess your vitamin D levels more accurately after adjusting your supplementation.
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Reassess Vitamin D Supplementation: Given your low levels, consider discussing with your doctor whether your current high dose of vitamin D is appropriate given your calcium levels. Sometimes a lower dose with dietary adjustments or direct sunlight exposure can be beneficial.
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Stay Hydrated: Ensure you’re drinking enough fluids to help with kidney function and support overall health, especially if dehydration is contributing to elevated creatinine levels.
Final Note
Monitoring your health and working closely with your doctor on these issues is essential. You’re taking proactive steps by considering further testing, which is commendable. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need further clarification on any aspect of your health.
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