Hematocrit -- didn't go up as expected

[sirgawain]

I have, for years, done my regular "every three months" blood draw. It's usually only allowed by my doc if my number is above 55. Today was a first -- I went in and it was 46. So they sent me away. (I do therapeutic because I'm on thinners)

I was surprised to have that happen for the first time. Body getting used to it? What other factors could keep it under the threshold?

 

[Nelson Vergel]

what's your TRT protocol? Do you have an old pre-TRT blood work to show us what your pre-TRT hematocrit was?

 

[sirgawain]

what's your TRT protocol? Do you have an old pre-TRT blood work to show us what your pre-TRT hematocrit was?

Twice a week, sub-q (so 120 split). I have been doing that for years and this is the first time my hematocrit was below the threshold. I am usually around 56-57 every three months when I go in for the draw.

 

[Nelson Vergel]

Did you start a blood pressure medication ? Any other changes ? Any blood in the stools ?

 

[sirgawain]

Did you start a blood pressure medication ? Any other changes ? Any blood in the stools ?

Nope -- had my checkup in December, and my numbers all were good. Zero changes in diet or meds in the last six months. I did notice that the last time they did it, they did not check hematocrit, but instead did HGB (16) which was out of range.

 

[Nelson Vergel]

Thanks. HGB of 16 corresponds to your hematocrit of 46-48. Your body is probably processing oxygen better (resolved apnea, or not smoking). Celebrate!

 

[Melody68]

Yes, good news . . . but I'd be wary until I got another test to confirm, especially since the results vary quite dramatically. Lab errors are made . . .