Posts by Zachary Gomez

Maria Fisher46 said:If you can't find common ground with your current family doctor, I'm afraid you won't have much choice but to switch providers.

Given how long the waitlists for an immunologist can be—and considering they might just order more tests once you finally see them, sending you right back to the start of the waiting game—it would be wiser to schedule a general internal medicine appointment first. Getting those baseline tests done beforehand helps rule things out and ensures you actually have something ready to show the specialist when you finally get in...

Thanks for the reply! I agree...
I'd likely have to see a private internist then (do you have any recommendations?), since I don't feel comfortable going back to my primary doctor to ask for a referral.

Quote: Felix the Cat

Maria Fisher46 said:Since I’ve already shared my perspective on this, I’ll just add a quick note regarding this specific point. Just because a stool sample comes back negative for parasites doesn't mean—not even for a second—that you don't have them...

I am not suggesting that a parasitic infection is the most likely diagnosis, but rather that it cannot be ruled out based solely on a stool analysis...

So, what am I supposed to do now? Who can I actually turn to? My doctor keeps ignoring all my previous test results and sees no reason for further investigation, despite everything I'm feeling... She just handed me this awkward referral for a specialist consultation with an allergist/immunologist just to get me off her hands—basically telling me to go find a second opinion elsewhere. To make matters worse, I have to wait nearly six months for that appointment. If I try to advocate for myself or suggest anything, she acts like I'm being condescending or trying to diagnose myself... as if I'm just making it all up. I've truly had enough... 😢 Sometimes, there really is no other option but to head to the private clinic...

Megan Jones27 said:Here is the link to my latest labs (full blood panel): http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15...d957de27e3.jpg

The lymphocyte to neutrophil ratio looks slightly improved...

I should have two stool samples ready later today.

I would appreciate any thoughts on this. Thanks in advance!

Back again after a month with updated results.

My levels are all over the place again. It’s been the same pattern for four months now. Here is the link to the full report (note that this was a finger-prick test, so calcium and phosphate aren't included, though they were slightly high last time):

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15...9d1095483c.jpg (kks)

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15...bd08dbfd89.jpg (urine)

Essentially, my white cell count is even higher now. The lymphocytes and eosinophils are showing the same trend, while neutrophils are down.

It's strange, truly strange... If I look this up online, everything points toward an acute infection—viral or bacterial—or perhaps something related to allergies or parasites (though my stool cultures for both bacteria and parasites came back negative).

I'm seeing my doctor on Tuesday. I'm hoping she'll actually refer me for further testing instead of laughing at me or snapping like she did last time, telling me I'm just imagining things and trying to self-diagnose some non-existent passing virus.

To add to it, I'm still dealing with that maddening scalp itch from time to time... and I've been feeling an indescribable level of fatigue. My digestion is hit or miss depending on the day. I don't really have pain, just occasional stomach discomfort like before. The only other thing is that I've lost a little more weight. For context, I'm breastfeeding and gave birth almost five months ago.

All these values that are acting up now were perfectly normal before I gave birth.

Many thanks, Robert Thomas21! 🙂

Where and for how long is the average wait time currently?

Is it possible to call ahead and ask when their next opening is, or do they only provide scheduling once an electronic referral has been sent over?

I just want to determine if waiting is worth the effort, or if I should simply book an appointment with a private specialist.

P.S. Do they perform color Doppler abdominal ultrasounds anywhere, or is that something I can only access through private clinics?

I am aware of the Tarle Clinic, $267 but there is a fee involved.

Maria Fisher46 said:The calcium levels are only slightly off, and phosphate is just a bit higher than the calcium. You should have these tests repeated, making sure to include magnesium this time.

While I don't believe Ferzym plus would be directly linked to these specific results, it wouldn't hurt to skip any Ferzym or other supplements for about 48 hours before your next blood draw...

There are several reasons why calcium and phosphate might be elevated—most commonly from excessive Vitamin D intake, supplements containing calcium and phosphates, or certain medications. If those factors are ruled out and the levels remain high upon retesting, we would then need to investigate potential underlying medical conditions...

Thank you so much for the response!

I'll be heading back for some blood work (including Mg) in about three weeks, so we will see where things stand then...

I am still experiencing occasional dull pains in my lower back and abdomen... sometimes accompanied by an urgent need to use the restroom...

Maria Fisher46 said:Your blood work looks almost perfect. However, your phosphorus and calcium levels are elevated... Are you currently taking any supplements or medications?

The only thing I’m taking is Ferzym plus probiotic.

Do you have any idea what might be causing those high levels?

Could it be related to diet, kidneys, or maybe the thyroid?..

I won't repeat my previous posts, but I should add that my stool sample came back looking normal. Tests for bacteria (like salmonella or shigella) and parasites were all NEGATIVE.

The only thing I don't understand is why they only tested for those two specific bacteria when it feels like there could be much more going on. 🤷

I'm really not sure what my next step should be. I plan to repeat the colonoscopy in a few months... I think I'll skip the barium swallow since I'm breastfeeding and I'm worried about how that radiation might affect things.

I would like to get a color Doppler abdominal ultrasound, but it seems like you can only get that through private clinics here; if I go through my insurance, I'll likely just get a standard ultrasound with a months-long waiting list.

To be honest, I'm dreading the gastroenterologist appointment for the endoscopy... If I had to choose between the two, I’d much rather have a colonoscopy.

I keep having these false sensations of hunger, which I suspect are actually signs of excess acid and slow digestion. I'd love to take some Nexium or a similar antacid/PPI, but I'm still unsure what's considered safe while breastfeeding.

Megan Jones27 said:Here is another set of results after a few months... (from today/Tuesday)

It’s still the same thing!

Neutrophils: 34.0 L (44-72)
Lymphocytes: 53.5 H (20-46)

So it has shifted even more since last time.

By pure coincidence, I had blood drawn on Friday too (my OBGYN sent me—by the way, from her side everything looks fine, she did an exam and an ultrasound), and you can see a clear difference within those few days.

Here are a few results for comparison (the first one is from nine days before delivery when everything was normal)

From left to right—older vs. newer results.

11/12/2014 / 01/15/2015 / 02/13/2015 / 02/17/2015

WBC: 8.3 / 6.5 / 6.8 / 5.5
Eosinophils: 0.7 / none / 3.1 / 6.4
Basophils: 0.2 / none / 0.1 / 0.2
Neutrophils: 61.3 / 38.4 / 36.1 / 34.0
Lymphocytes: 29.7 / 50.7 / 54.2 / 53.5
Monocytes: 8.1 / none / 6.5 / 5.9

Lower back and abdominal pain are still present... sometimes more, sometimes less, along with general weakness during the pain episodes. For the last couple of days, my stools have been loose with some tiny black specks (???). Pain is also present during bowel movements. Stomach cramping...

Occasional itching on my head, face, etc...

I started taking the probiotic Ferzym plus.

My primary care doctor says my results are normal (though I'm not so sure), but she gave me referrals for a stool test for bacteria and parasites, and an imaging scan for my spine (since I have scoliosis).

I would also like to get a color Doppler abdominal ultrasound. In the US, waiting for that through insurance might take months (if they even do it), so I will probably go privately to see Dr. Tarle Bajic. Possibly further blood work with a hematologist later on.

Please leave a comment with your thoughts... Thank you.

Megan Jones27 said:Adding a few more symptoms... Itching on my scalp, mostly at the back, and on my face (it used to be behind my chin and on my neck too)... Little bumps appear that feel like mosquito bites. Sometimes it happens on my arms as well. Recently, I've also felt stinging sensations under my armpits.🤔

Something viral, immunological, allergies, parasites...???

I'll just have to see what the next round of tests shows.

Maria Fisher46 said:Wait for the results of the completed testing. If they come back negative, it would be wise to consult a gastroenterologist. The CBC isn't perfectly normal, but it doesn't deviate enough to require emergency intervention.

Here is the link to the most recent results (complete blood panel):http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15...d957de27e3.jpg

The ratio of lymphocytes to neutrophil granulocytes looks slightly improved...

I expect to have about two bowel movements throughout the day.

Please let me know what you think. Thanks in advance!

I should probably mention a few more symptoms... I've been dealing with an itchy scalp, mostly at the back, and on my face too (it used to flare up under my chin and on my neck as well)... It feels like tiny mosquito bites popping up. Sometimes it happens on my arms, too. Lately, I've even felt some stinging sensations under my armpits. 🤔

Could this be viral, immunological, an allergy, or perhaps parasites...?

I suppose I'll just have to wait and see what the upcoming lab results reveal.

Megan Jones27 said:Here is my CBC report from two months postpartum... I had it done because of low iron during my pregnancy and because I’ve been feeling pretty weak over the last couple of months. This lab work is from two weeks ago; my doctor told me over the phone that everything looks fine, but now that I actually have the results in front of me, I noticed a few values are slightly high or low. Otherwise, my iron is at 19 (normal range is 8–30), which seems okay...

What I'm struggling with is...

Neutrophil granulocytes: 38.4 (44 - 72), slightly low...
Lymphocytes: 50.7 (20 - 46), slightly elevated...
Platelets: 152 (normal range 158 - 424)... slightly low.

To add to what I mentioned earlier, I just found out today that I have CIN II again. Since I'm breastfeeding, they only prescribed vaginal medication for now, so my next checkup isn't until May...

Lately, I’ve been dealing with some nagging lower back pain that seems to radiate toward my front. It feels like there might be a connection between this discomfort and my digestion or bathroom habits. I've also noticed a bit of blood on the paper when I have a major bowel movement—perhaps internal hemorrhoids? On top of that, for the last two months, I've had occasional itching all over my body, mostly concentrated on my face and head. It usually shows up in the same few spots on my face, looking almost like mosquito bites...

I am not certain if everything I have mentioned is relevant, but perhaps it might help determine whether this is a genuine issue or...

Thank you.

Maria Fisher46 said:The values you've listed show some slight irregularities, though I don't believe they are directly linked to the symptoms you're experiencing. Furthermore, I doubt there is any connection to the HPV either. However, seeing blood on the toilet paper shouldn't be overlooked, regardless of your age...

Here is another set of results after a month... (as of today/Tuesday)...

Still the same old story...

Neutrophil granulocytes: 34.0 L (44-72)...
Lymphocytes: 53.5 H (20-46)...

It appears the numbers have shifted again since the last check...

I happened to have some bloodwork done this past Friday—my gynecologist actually sent me in for it. Everything came back perfectly fine on her end after the exam and ultrasound, but looking at the results from just a few days ago, there is a really noticeable difference...

Here are a few lab results for comparison (the first one is from a few days before delivery when everything was perfectly normal)...

From left to right—the older finding versus the more recent one...

12.11.2014. / 15.01.2015. / 13.02.2015. / 17.02.2015.

White blood cell counts: 8.3 / 6.5 / 6.8 / 5.5...
Eosinophilic granulocytes: 0.7 / nothing / 3.1 / 6.4...
Basophils: 0.2 / nothing / 0.1 / 0.2...
Neutrophil granulocytes: 61.3 / 38.4 / 36.1 / 34.0...
Lymphocytes: 29.7 / 50.7 / 54.2 / 53.5...
Monocytes: 8.1 / nothing / 6.5 / 5.9...

The lower back and abdominal pains are still persisting... Sometimes they flare up, other times they subside, usually accompanied by a general sense of weakness during the episodes. For the last few days, I've been experiencing loose stools with some small black specks present. There is also discomfort during bowel movements, along with constant stomach rumbling...

Occasional itching on the scalp, face, and other areas...

I have started taking Fuzzy Plus probiotics...

My primary care physician says my results are normal—though I have my doubts—but she did write me some referrals for stool tests to check for bacteria and parasites, along with an imaging scan for my spine since I deal with scoliosis...

I am looking into scheduling a color Doppler abdominal ultrasound. In my experience, wait times for that here can stretch on for months—if they even offer it at all—so I will likely just book a private appointment with Dr. Bajic Tarle. I might also follow up with some additional blood work through a hematologist.

I would appreciate any thoughts or advice you might have... Thank you.

Maria Fisher46 said:The lab results you listed show only minor fluctuations, and I don't believe they are linked to the symptoms you're experiencing. Additionally, I don't think HPV is related to this either. However, seeing blood on the toilet paper shouldn't be ignored, regardless of your age.

Thank you so much for the response!

It might be related to constipation... Sometimes I go a day or two without being able to go. That could be why there's blood during bowel movements, as I feel a sharp stinging sensation at the exit. It happened a few times, then things seemed okay for a bit, then it returned, and now everything is normal again...

It could be my diet, lack of movement, or not enough fluids (I'm breastfeeding and mostly stay home...). I am trying to improve all of that. I drink warm boiled water in the morning and eat pears and prunes... I've also started exercising lightly. Perhaps that will help...

P.S.: I had hemorrhoids toward the end of my pregnancy, and they flared up a bit due to straining during labor, but then they subsided...

I'm going to see my doctor anyway, so I'll ask her for a referral for some testing. Maybe blood work, another colonoscopy, or even a pelvic exam...?

Here are my CBC results from two months postpartum... I had them done because my iron was low during pregnancy and I’ve been feeling quite weak over the last couple of months. The labs are from two weeks ago; my doctor told me over the phone that everything looks fine, but now that I have the printout in front of me, I noticed a few values are slightly out of range. For context, my iron is at 19 (normal range is 8 - 30), which is fine.

The things worrying me are:

Neutrophil granulocytes: 38.4 (44 - 72) low
Lymphocytes: 50.7 (20 - 46) high
Platelets: 152 (158 - 424) low

To add to that, I just found out today that I have CIN II again. Since I'm breastfeeding, I was only prescribed vaginal medication and won't be back for a follow-up until month five.

Lately, I've been dealing with some nagging lower back pain that seems to radiate toward the front. It also feels like it might be linked to my digestion and bathroom habits. Additionally, when I have a bowel movement, there's a bit of blood on the paper (maybe internal hemorrhoids?). For the past two months, I've also had occasional itching all over my body, mostly on my face and scalp. On my face, it always shows up in the same few spots and looks somewhat like mosquito bites.

I'm not sure if all of this is connected, but perhaps it would help to determine if there's an actual underlying issue or...

Thank you.

George Davis6 said:Honestly, it’s exactly this kind of stuff that keeps me from ever stepping foot in public hospitals or clinics... I just did all my testing at a private clinic just three minutes from my apartment—results were ready the same day, zero waiting, zero standing around, and zero irritation. I don't care how much it costs; nothing is worth the headache (and let me tell you, I know myself—I have a seriously short fuse!). One time at the local Post Office, after getting my shots, the guy there had the nerve to snap at me about how I'd "pushed through it," and I was shaking with rage for half the day... yeah, I am definitely skipping that stress in the future.😠

Actually, I’m also seeing a private doctor for my pregnancy. That's how I started, though I end up bouncing around everywhere—between Denmark and the US, using fertility specialists, private doctors, and even socialized medicine. For certain things, I still have to go through my insurance provider (for referrals and such), so I actually opened a file with them as well just in case. Generally, if you have a specialized referral, you get seen immediately... like when I went in for blood sugar testing or a Combos test at Mayo Clinic...

The worst part was dealing with a substitute social worker who was in such a rush to go on break with her sister that she barely examined me and then handed me an incomplete referral...

I ended up waiting in Cleveland for 45 minutes today just to get my blood drawn! And I actually stood the whole time... This isn't typical, since pregnant women, kids, and people with disabilities are supposed to have priority. It was crowded, obviously; an elderly woman even asked me twice if I wanted to sit down, but I declined. To be honest, I wasn't feeling too bad yet, even though I'm entering my seventh month, and seeing how poorly she felt made me think I could just tough it out... Plus, it’s the principle of the thing. They didn't call me back to the clinic like they did for another pregnant woman after only five or ten minutes, simply because I didn't explicitly announce my pregnancy—you can't see it from behind the counter. I was naive enough to assume there would be a special code on my referral, but apparently, that only happens when OBGYNs send it over, not through a general practitioner. Whatever, let them do it their way... 🙂

My cycles usually average about 30 days, though over the last 3-4 months they’ve fluctuated between 29 and 32.
My last period started on February 24th, so by my math, I was due around March 26th. However, for the past 3 or 4 days, I’ve been experiencing some light spotting, but without any of those cramps that typically hit on the second day when my flow is heaviest.

I had intercourse on March 8th and 10th during my fertile window, which led me to wonder if the discharge I noticed on March 20th was implantation bleeding, as that's exactly how it appeared... The bleeding has continued since then, mostly lighter than usual, though I have also been using pads for the last 10 days due to some discharge following a laser procedure. I went in for a checkup this past Friday, and everything is healing normally.

Since I can't stop worrying, I did some searching online and found that plenty of women have been in this exact position—unsure if they're seeing an early period or implantation bleeding, which can sometimes mimic a very light period.

To clarify, part of the discharge (yellowish to brownish) is definitely from the laser treatment as it heals (it was done on the inner labia), but I am confused by the rest because my period has never arrived this early unless I've experienced a major change in environment, like traveling from the Midwest to the coast. About ten days ago, I actually returned from a trip to Denmark, though I've traveled before without such shifts. Is it possible this was implantation bleeding that just happens to be heavier for me, or do you think my cycle could simply arrive early on day 25, perhaps appearing lighter than usual?

I'm not afraid of being pregnant; my partner and I are married and hoping to start a family sometime soon...

What do you all think? If I were to buy a test, when would be the best time to take it to ensure the results are accurate—the day after this unexpected spotting begins, or later?

PS: If I’ve posted this in the wrong section, please feel free to move it. Thank you.

I haven't watched it yet, but honestly, even the trailer tells me everything I need to know... this looks like absolute garbage. 🤦

Excellent !! 👍

Thank you.

Back in mid-October, I developed some hives and a rash across my body, so I went to see a doctor... they told me to get a CBC, a urinalysis, and an occult blood test, then come back for a follow-up once everything was ready. I haven't been back yet because I just finished getting the rest of my tests done.

Here are my blood results from about a month ago, though I had to head over to the local clinic later to check my CRP and ferritin since they don't do ferritin testing at the Newark facility and charge extra there. My stool test for occult blood came back negative.

Ferritin is 25 (20-300), and CRP is 0.2 (0-5).

Does this look normal, or does it suggest I might be low on iron?...