Got A Copy Of My BW Results

[ellipse22]

I have an appt on Wed to meet the GI Specialist so I asked the clinic for my bloodwork & stool results.

It shows no infection in my stools and no blood.

My B12 count is at 137 which is considered deficient. Normal count should be over 220. The report says "symptomatic patients have a hematologic or neurologic response to B12 supplementation at a level less than 148. HUH? :sign0085:

My RBC shows that the size of my RBC are large (MCV) are at 114. Normal is 80-99. The amount (MCH) id 46. Normal is 27-32. It says: Red Blood Cells appear Normochromic - I'm not sure what that means. Anyone?

My iron levels are at 29 when they should be above 80. Iron supplements it is!

I have no idea if they check my inflammation levels but I'm sure the Specialist will want more bloodwork.

Just wanted to share and curious if I should be overly concerned with my results. I had another blood test today to check again after 1 month of B12 & Iron Supplements.

 

[Jennifer]

Let's see I don't know all the codes but I know they are in the wiki on this forum. I'll edit my post with the link to the wiki of blood test codes.

Normochromic means that you're anemic which with the low iron makes sense. Taking iron supplements may help. I am anemic as well and my doc told me to take 325mg which over the counter may say 65mg but is the same as 325.

"Regarding the Iron - Fe:
All iron (Fe) needs to be bound to something in order for it to be absorbed by the body. Ferrous Sulphate (FeSO4) is and oxidised form of iron, that can be absorbed.
325mg of ferrous sulphate is equivalent to about 65mg of elemental (pure) iron. The cheapest form of iron used as a supplement is Ferrous Sulphate.
There are better absorbed forms of Iron such as Iron Glycinate, or Ferrous fumarate which don't irritate the guts as much." http://www.crohnsforum.com/showthread.php?t=20541&page=2

As for the B12, if supplements aren't working then you may need an injection. I get those as well because I cannot absorb the B12 since my resection. There is slow release out there and some you put under your tongue but if those don't work then the shot may be best for you. I'd ask the doc about it.

Here's the wiki on blood test codes: http://www.crohnsforum.com/wiki/Blood-test-codes-and-results-explained