Jill and all,
I got a copy of my last blood test from my gastro Dr. today. I got an H for high on the RDW and platelet count. My platelets are always high, that's why I see a hemo. My lymphocytes and lymphs got an L for low. Does anyone have any ideas from those results? I read from Jill, I think, that high RDW could mean anemia. Anyone know what low lymphocytes mean? My gastros nurse just said that ALL of my results are normal. Then why do I NOT feel normal???????????? Here are some of my results. Any input would be appreciated! Thanks!

Serum Iron 68 (Range 40-150)
TIBC 344 (range 250-400)
Serum iron saturation 20 (range 15-55)
Hgb 13.1 (range 11.7-16)
WBC 4.4 (range 3.5-11)
RBC 4.36 (range 3.8-5.3)
Hct 39.6 (range 36-51)

Your numbers do look very good! It's a shame they didn't run a ferritin. But you definitely aren't anemic at this point.

I had a low lymphocyte count on my last lab report and no one even mentioned it to me. I just happened to see it. No one could tell me what it meant either.

Elphers,
Chances are you are fighting something. When I get any kind of infection, it makes my white count go down and my platelets go up.

Lots of things can elevate the platelet count, and it's usually not a problem unless it goes way up and stays there. For example, my hema doesn't get upset unless my platelet count goes over a million and stays there.

But that's a fantastic hemoglobin! I'd be so happy with that.

If you're still feeling nasty, I'd wonder about B12. They can run a blood test for that too. You might even need the shots - I get them twice a month, and it seems to keep me at a better energy level. When your B12 is low, your body just doesn't function very well, and from what I've found, B12 deficiency is fairly common. It's worth looking into, especially since you have some exceptions on your CBC.

Take care,

Jill

Jill,
I get monthly B12 shots. I too wondered why my B12 wasn't tested on my CBC, also ferritin. I don't feel any energy after the shots, but maybe they are keeping most of my numbers normal? I just wonder why I am always so fatigued.
Thanks!

Elphers,
Yep, I bet the shots are just enough to keep you asymptomatic, but not enough to replenish enough so you feel well. People with Pernicious Anemia often like to see their B12 range as 1000, because at that level, they have enough to restore damage and function.

I'm told it's difficult, and you should help it along by eating bananas, as potassium helps the body process B12.

They also told me to take a Bcomplex vitamin as well so that all the B's stay in balance.

Perhaps you need the shots weekly for a few months, then you can spread them out?

I hope you're on the mend!
Jill