Switch to Topical T to Bring Hematocrit Down?

[Jim Remick]

How frequently are you donating blood?

How long have you been on TRT?

What was your ferritin a month after taking iron (by the way, also take Vitamin C since it improves iron absorption). Be careful with overdosing iron since it can affect the liver.

Been giving blood every 2 months pretty consistently for years and been on TRT for 5 years. The frequent blood donations kept hematocrit in check. Then I read about the low ferritin thing and sure enough I was low and started on the iron supplements and eating a lot of red meat just the past 2 months. Yesterday I found out hematocrit was higher than it ever been. Going for my second ferritin blood test today.

 

[Jim Remick]

Ferritin was 19 on the Labcorp 30-400 scale 2 months ago before the iron supplements. Testing again today

 

[cadcard]

So I finally got to give blood the other day.

I'm going to get blood tests this week and then book an appointment with a hematologist.

Is there anyone here with high hematocrit, experiencing heavy fatigue? Will giving blood on a frequent basis, help with the fatigue? It's like my TRT is not working right now.

 

[ERO]

When I was a kid I used to sometimes get anemic (low blood iron) and feel exactly like you describe. But now that I am 50 an on TRT I have never felt that way with high hemocrit.

 

[cadcard]

Gave blood on 8/21.
My labs prior to giving blood were:
RBC 6.08 (4.14-5.80)
Hemoglobin 19.2 (12.6-17.7)
Hematocrit 54.8 (37.5-51.0)

Received recent labs:
RBC 5.48
Hemoglobin 17.0
Hematocrit 49.8

Just some results that may prove useful to anyone that is having problems with their levels.

 

[traveler60]

I am 60 and generally good health.
18 months ago I started Androgel 1.62. 2 pumps a day.
It was great! I had great sex everyday and felt strong and never tired. I met a cute 42 year old lady who I make happy.
6 months ago my Hemocrit and Hemoglobin were high. The Doc told me to cut back to one pump and do a therapeutic blood draw.
This week I got my blood work and the Hemos's are still high (hemoglobin 17, Hemocrit 53), about the same as before. The Doctor told me I am at risk of a heart attack or stroke and told me to go off the Andro immediately. I am feeling depressed about this.
I have enjoyed the Andro so much it changed my life. Any suggestions on an alternative or what I should do besides a depressed old man? thanks

 

[Jay]

Yes, reach out to Defy Medical, they will work with you on bringing H&H down and keep you on Test.

 

[traveler60]

thanks. That place looks good but I am in California.

 

[CoastWatcher]

thanks. That place looks good but I am in California.

If you live in the US you can access Defy's services. They operate with a telemedicine model. Many of our members, who live all over the States rely on them. Go to their website and/or call them. They are very open to questions. You should also start a new thread - you have your own issues and will receive a stronger response in the future with a newer thread.

 

[traveler60]

ok, thanks