Hemoglobin Low?

[Guest ShineR]

Well I just got word on my flight physical and the doc told me I need to get my hemoglobin redone because it was "a little low." I remember the doc that did my physical saying it was a bit low, but OK and it was probably due to stress/lack of sleep...both of which are probably true. Well I am to do it again next week and it will probably be one of the most sleepless and stressful weeks of my college career because I am a slacker and have to finish my senior project in a few days. What can I do other than sleeping and eating right to ensure that I pass with flying colors?

[Guest F16PilotMD]

You are not going to be able to get your hemoglobin up by sleeping. Even diet won't change it next week. Have you been told in the past you have a low hemoglobin? If this is new, you ought to be checked out.

[Guest ShineR]

Thanks for the reply.

This is entirely new for me. I had my HGB/HCT done last year for the altitude chamber, and there were no problems then. The doc said I was borderline, I am hoping it isnt anything serious that would need to be checked out. Also, the original physical was done two months ago and they are just now getting back to me. Could it just be a fluke?

Edit: I was also wondering how many days before the bloodwork should I avoid any alcohol and blood-thinners like asprin?

Edited April 2, 2007 by ShineR

[Guest F16PilotMD]

Eating, drinking, etc doesn't have much to do with it in the short-term. Aspirin likewise has nothing to do with it in the short-term. Everything in medicine can be helped by living a "healthy" life. Not a lot of science behind that.

The key is to find out WHY you are anemic. Sometimes you never know despite multiple tests. Artificially elevating your hemoglobin concentration doesn't solve the problem.

[Guest ShineR]

Eating, drinking, etc doesn't have much to do with it in the short-term. Aspirin likewise has nothing to do with it in the short-term. Everything in medicine can be helped by living a "healthy" life. Not a lot of science behind that.

The key is to find out WHY you are anemic. Sometimes you never know despite multiple tests. Artificially elevating your hemoglobin concentration doesn't solve the problem.

Cool good info to know.

I got the retest and passed with flying colors aka completely average. I guess it was just a fluke the first time. Thanks for your help!