Posted by medlib on February 17, 2000, at 1:10:57
In reply to Re: blood tests-Finally!, posted by Noa on February 16, 2000, at 17:39:50
> I finally went for my blood tests. It was a frustrating chase, to get my doc to fax in the orders. Each time I spoke with him he said he would, but then they never arrived. Finally, I had the lab page him and he gave the orders verbaly over the phone, this afternoon. So, right after work, I went. I did ask my doc for the electrolytes, and lithium. The lithium, he was going to include anyway. He wasn't enthusiastic about the electrolytes, but said ok. I think they ended up in the orders because they took three vials from me, although I don't know what the norm is for different tests.
Noa-
One place to check out values and interpretations for almost any lab test is the A.D.A.M. medical encyclopedia at:
http://www.netwellness.org/mhc/main.htm
Click on "Tests", then on "C", then "Chem20" 0R "s", then "SMA20" (same test, different names).
It measures levels of 20 different substances found in blood plasma(the clear, non-cellular part of the blood.) A brief description of "electrolytes" is included after "Normal Values."
Your doc should furnish you with a copy of all blood work; ASK! Depending on the lab form, normal values usually are listed and abnormal findings highlighted (and sometimes explained.)I have been reading this board for a couple of months and have found your posts very supportive and helpful. Your description of your dysfunctional home environment had me in stitches; I type this surrounded by more than 60 unopened cartons from a move 9 months ago! The only reason I have a working computer to type on is I bought it after the move. I recently purchased a nice printer (after only 8 months of indecision) and lost the printer cable in my mess before I could get it hooked up (and no, I haven't found it yet--going on two weeks now.) I guess that no matter how bad things are, someone else usually has it worse.
The only places I can reliably find things in my hovel are my purse and the top of the refrigerator--which is where I keep lab test reports and all other things psych.
I hope that your most recent problem IS thyroid--at least it's easier to fix than most others--but my 30+ years'experience with hypothroidism is that onset is seldom sudden--more like a windup clock running down.
Re: the kids. If your energy level is low, you might try the "Tired-Grandmother-Trick". Wear them out at the park, then pop them in front of the TV with a snack and a new videotape. With any luck the combination of exercise and food will make them sleepy.
Sorry this is so long; if I post again I'll try to be more succinct. Good luck!
poster:medlib
thread:21681
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000209/msgs/21981.html