HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Having Low Energy And Shallow Breathing. Diabetic. Blood Test Shows Hemoglobin A1c = 6.1%. Concerned?

default
Posted on Thu, 20 Jun 2013
Question: These are readings from my recent blood test. White blood cell count = 12.4 thousand/ul
Hemoglobin = 10.4 g/dl., Hematocrit = 32.2%, MCV = 74.9 fl., MCh = 24.1, RDW 17.5%, Absolute Neutrophils = 8655 cells/ul, Hemoglobin A1c = 6.1%, Iron total = 19 mcg/dl, Saturation = 5% (calc), Glucose = 156mg/d?. I have been having a bad time with low energy in the morning with shallow breathing, I have been on iron and vit. b12 but I'm not improving at all. I am diabetic and am trying desperately to control it with diet but I'm guessing I'm not doing too well. I have cut out all grains in my diet and eat only fresh fruits and veggies along with chicken, pork and some red meat. I've tried prescription meds as well as supplements and I don't seem to be getting any better. I have achalasia which causes me distress as well as acid reflux. I have mitral valve prolapse in case that matters. I seem to be controlling my blood pressure pretty well and I thought I was doing well with my sugar. I'm trying to live without acid reflux meds but can't seem to go without Tums. I sure could use some advice about my health because my day to day life is becoming a real challenge. I am seeing a doctor on a regular basis but 15 minutes with her doesn't give me much information or understanding. Should I be concerned about my blood tests beyond the type 2 diabetes and low iron (which I know is a big part of my problem)? Please advise
doctor
Answered by Dr. Rajiv K Khandelwal (1 hour later)
Hi,

Thank you for your query.

You have very correctly summarised your problems and even their solution. Though your hemoglobin is low it can be associated with your diabetic status which in turn can be affecting your other organs. Even though hemoglobin A1c level is good (this states your diabetic control over the past 3 months) your present glucose level is a cause for concern. It needs to be controlled with:
1. Exercise
2. Diet
3. Medicines
for which you need to sit down with your doctor and work out the details. Once diabetic starts getting controlled your "low energy" issue will start resolving. Your doctor will also guide you further on any further course of action or investigations that need to be done.

I hope I have answered your query to your satisfaction. Please feel free to revert back for any clarifications or if you would like to share more facts.

Wishing you all the best.

Regards,

Rajiv K Khandelwal
http://goo.gl/SuCjl
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Rajiv K Khandelwal (18 minutes later)
Ok, so I will get back on my Metformin until I can get in to see my dr. Thank you for your advice. I was hoping I could do this without the meds but I guess not.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Rajiv K Khandelwal (2 hours later)
Hi,

I appreciate that you have decided to start your medication. However it may require dose adjustment for which you should be in constant touch with your treating doctor.

I am happy that I have been of some help to you. In case you intend closing this query then please do give your review.

Wishing you all the best.

Regards,

Rajiv
Note: Do you have more questions on diagnosis or treatment of blood disorders? Ask An Expert/ Specialist Now

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Rajiv K Khandelwal

Pediatrician

Practicing since :1976

Answered : 1872 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Having Low Energy And Shallow Breathing. Diabetic. Blood Test Shows Hemoglobin A1c = 6.1%. Concerned?

Hi,

Thank you for your query.

You have very correctly summarised your problems and even their solution. Though your hemoglobin is low it can be associated with your diabetic status which in turn can be affecting your other organs. Even though hemoglobin A1c level is good (this states your diabetic control over the past 3 months) your present glucose level is a cause for concern. It needs to be controlled with:
1. Exercise
2. Diet
3. Medicines
for which you need to sit down with your doctor and work out the details. Once diabetic starts getting controlled your "low energy" issue will start resolving. Your doctor will also guide you further on any further course of action or investigations that need to be done.

I hope I have answered your query to your satisfaction. Please feel free to revert back for any clarifications or if you would like to share more facts.

Wishing you all the best.

Regards,

Rajiv K Khandelwal
http://goo.gl/SuCjl