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What Does My Blood Test Report Indicate?
Question: My last blood test shows low MCV 77.5 and the BNP is high 140. I've been having trouble breathing and have been tired a lot. My right leg, ankle, foot have edema that is there most of the time even though I take a diuretic. How concerned should I be with the blood test results AND what would be a diagnosis for such?
Brief Answer:
Correction of anemia necessary.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:
1. Low MCV suggests microcytic anemia, commonly secondary to iron deficiency. Iron studies are necessary for confirmation. In the mean time you need to start on iron supplements and do a reticulocyte count after 15 days, to check improvement. Anemia requires correction to reduce cardiac load.
2. BNP of 140 is high, indicating mild heart failure. If you do not have any renal dysfunction, then this value is definitely elevated and requires caution.
Regular medication, low salt diet is necessary.
In view of Knee replacement surgery, cardiac evaluation along with chest X-ray is essential.
3. For edema in the foot, along with diuretics, limb elevation in lying down position like keeping 2-3 pillows, so that the foot is above heart level. It will reduce.
Concentrate towards improving anemia, regular medication and diet. Not much concern at present.
Hope it helps.
Any further queries, here to help again.
Dr. Prakash HM
Correction of anemia necessary.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:
1. Low MCV suggests microcytic anemia, commonly secondary to iron deficiency. Iron studies are necessary for confirmation. In the mean time you need to start on iron supplements and do a reticulocyte count after 15 days, to check improvement. Anemia requires correction to reduce cardiac load.
2. BNP of 140 is high, indicating mild heart failure. If you do not have any renal dysfunction, then this value is definitely elevated and requires caution.
Regular medication, low salt diet is necessary.
In view of Knee replacement surgery, cardiac evaluation along with chest X-ray is essential.
3. For edema in the foot, along with diuretics, limb elevation in lying down position like keeping 2-3 pillows, so that the foot is above heart level. It will reduce.
Concentrate towards improving anemia, regular medication and diet. Not much concern at present.
Hope it helps.
Any further queries, here to help again.
Dr. Prakash HM
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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