Replies

I had a perfect blood test in October 2021. Subsequently in Jan 2022 and Jan 2023, I had COVID that lasted 10 days for each infection. My supplements include enough quercetin, zinc and vitamin D3 to weather it just fine. I added a regular dose of turmeric daily. First thing in the morning, serrapeptase, nattokinase, bromelaine. I have taken 800 mg of ibuprofen at bedtime since 1993 to suppress my rheumatoid arthritis. In the last 18 months, I developed itchy lower legs, itchy shoulders and edema in the lower legs. Annoying, but I hadn't pursued a medical evaluation. That changed Jan 15, 2024. I submitted to a blood/urine test for a better rate for life insurance. Instead, I was denied coverage. My liver enzymes (GGT/ALP) were elevated.Cholesteral was below minimums. Albumin below minimums.

I visited my doctor where CBC/electrolytes and retest of ALP/GGT was ordered. Surprise! RBC and WBC levels are halfway between zero the the lowest "OK" range. Hemoglobin at 8.4. Ferritin at 15. Stage 3 iron deficiency anemia. I dumped a large volume of blood in my stool on Jan 15.

Immediately on reading the lab reports I scheduled a liver ultrasound, then an MRCP (MRI) to check my liver and ceased all blood thinning supplements/meds (ibuprofen, turmeric, serrapeptase, nattokinase, bromelain, asperin). I've been off them for 3 weeks. I'm taking a heme-iron based supplement to rebuild my iron levels. A re-test of my CBC/ferritin shows my RBC back in normal range. Ferritin and hemoglobin are just short of the bottom of normal range. Stopping the blood loss and adding heme based iron supplements has turned the corner on the the blood lab results. Still waiting for the outward symptoms (lower leg edema) to improve. A colonoscopy/endoscopy is happening on Thursday to search for any other sources of bleeding. The MRI (MRCP) pulled more skeletons from the closet. A "juxtapleural node" on my right lung (CT recommended) and a need for ultrasound on the endoscopy to decide if the gallbladder needs to go.

All the above is a mix of post COVID and supplement impacts. You can't fix what you are measuring. The CBC/ferretin gave me a reference and plan of action. The iron deficiency anemia is resolving. The liver problems and plan of action are still being evaluated.