The first week of January I had a few blood tests done to make sure i'm okay. Basically it was to check my testosterone. The nurse did a test for a CBC and a week later, my endo called me saying that my hemoglobin levels are high and I need to stop taking my testosterone. I had the same CBC test done a week ago and I found out three days ago that my hemoglobin levels are still elevated. I have been losing circulation in both my hands and I didn't know why and now I know. Another thing is, high hemoglobin levels mean you are at risk for blood clotting.
I am having top surgery on the 27th and i'm worried that because these levels are high, that something will go wrong. I don't want to reschedule the surgery because I've been waiting so long and its finally here.
I can't seem to find anything about lowering the hemoglobin levels. I read that I should lower my iron, but I don't really know how to do so.
If anyone can give me any advice that would be wonderful.
Thanks.
:)
From what I've read and what little I know from a friend's experience, elevated levels of hemoglobin could be from dehydration. Try drinking more fluids and taking in less caffeine. It could also be from high elevation, depending on your location. Another thing that might help is giving blood. But I'd recommend talking to a DR. before doing so.
I'm surprised the nurse didn't give any additional information to lower your levels though.
I'd ask the surgeon or your doctor for some more information. My Hb levels are elevated too - and have been for the better part of a year! My GP isn't concerned coz they're not "that high" but are higher than normal. So find out how high they are and if it's going to be a problem for your surgery before you start worrying bro!! Mattie is right too - there are other reasons your Hb can be high - plus we all know it is a side effect of taking the testosterone we take, right?!
Good luck with the top surgery too mate :)
Thanks guys. When I talked to the nurse, she just stated that they were elevated and didn't really say anything else. I guess if it were life threatening she would have said something or made a doctors appointment for me. I do plan on calling her back first thing today.
Thanks for the luck, i'm going to need it!
I wasn't sure if it was the testosterone. I haven't had any T since the beginning of January. I honestly thought that there was something wrong with me..haha. I tend to worry about that :P
I had the same thing too right before surgery and the nurses and my family doctor were freaking out over it and wanted to get all these tests done and change my testosterone dose. Then when I saw my surgeon he said it was above average but he said he didn't think it was a big deal.
Though for me I know it must be have been from dehydration. I didn't drink near enough water as I should hahah.