Dizzy/Low RBC

Triathlon Forum
1

I’ve had low platelets for about a year now, but it was never a big issue. I get regular blood work (normally) and everything has been fine. I just got a blood tested yesterday and these were the results: http://i57.tinypic.com/30bmpz9.jpg

Platelets are a little low, but so is my RBC. I’ve been very lightheaded lately and avoid running for fear of passing out… I should have requested an iron/ferritin test, too, but I didn’t think about it at the time.

What can I do to fix this? Is my dizziness possibily related to my bloodwork or doubtful?

Should I start supplementing with iron? What can I eat to possibly help me out – beef heart/liver?

2

Do you drink alcohol? if so, cut down. this is not iron deficiency.

3

I drink a beer or two maybe once a week.

4

Prior to the blood test in the month or so before how much were you training, and how much in comparison to (the run up to) your previous blood test which I assume showed RBCs etc within normal ranges? Also, your hydration status just prior to the test? FWIW your current values are only just below range, so wouldn’t have thought that’d be it. Iron levels plus other minerals dependent on absorption would’ve been good to know.

5

**Prior to the blood test in the month or so before how much were you training, and how much in comparison to (the run up to) your previous blood test which I assume showed RBCs etc within normal ranges? **

I was putting in a bunch of intensity during October/November to peak for a race the first week of December. Since the race I’ve taken it really pretty easy – no intensity, just easy rides/runs and some swims. I felt pretty wrecked towards the end of November.

Also, your hydration status just prior to the test? FWIW your current values are only just below range, so wouldn’t have thought that’d be it. Iron levels plus other minerals dependent on absorption would’ve been good to know.

I was pretty fully hydrated. I rode 30 miles that morning, had a massage at 8:00 AM, blood was taken at 10:15 AM. I drank 1.5 liters of water on my way to the appointment and drank plenty of water on the bike. As far as minerals, I didn’t expect it to be an issue which was why I didn’t request any other tests, just my typical CBC.

6

What did you eat before, during after the ride? Current body composition. Just wondering if it’s low blood sugar. I know that makes we a little wonky. That’s a lot of water without any minerals or food to go with it.

I’m just thr owing that out there.

7

No food on the ride. I came home and had 1.5 servings of oatmeal w/ a banana and a scoop of PB2. After the massage I had a larabar on the way to the hematologist.

8

Are you dizzy all the time, or is it just going from lying/sitting to standing? Do you have low blood pressure? if so google orthostatic hypotension

9

Are you male or female? It is borderline low. I don’t think that your dizziness is due to low rbc count.

10

It comes on randomly, normally in the afternoon. This makes me think it may be blood sugar.

I’m 25yo, male and my BP hovers around 130/70 w/ rhr ~40.

11

It comes on randomly, normally in the afternoon. This makes me think it may be blood sugar.

easy test: have a snack, something with a CHO/fat/protein mix, and see if it goes away… avoid going for straight carbs.

12

get a doctor to prescribe you some erythropoetin alfa, this is a perfect opportunity don’t pass out on it.

13

so… how long will it stay in my system?

14

There is nothing alarming about your RBC count and your hemoglobin is in the normal range. In fact, if you indeed drank 1.5 liters en route, you were probably hemo-diluted and your true numbers are actually higher.

15

so… how long will it stay in my system?

Hell all sorts of AGers rationalize that it is ok to take testosterone because a doctor says they have low reading. You are actually showing us a low RBC count so there is no way that anyone can say it is unjust if you push a little Aranesp.

16

Not sure if anyone else has said this, but your “dizziness” is most definitely not related to your hemoglobin/RBC values. First advice, go see your doctor. Get an EKG. Describe what you mean by “dizziness”. Dizzy/lightheaded can be anything from heart to inner ear to central nervous system to anxiety.