What are the methods to overcome neutropenia associated with gastric pain?

Question

Hello doctor.

I am a 21-year-old female who has a history of gastrointestinal problems, including considerable bloating, food intolerances, and stomach pain. This has been going on for the past four years, and I was diagnosed with gastroparesis. I have been experiencing joint discomfort on and off for years, but it suddenly became more severe, so I went to see a rheumatologist. Everything was fine at the time, except my vitamin D level was low. I have been taking vitamin D once a week for a few weeks now. Last week, I went to see my primary care physician about "brain fog," which can be characterized by a loss of focus, difficulty remembering fundamental tasks, and a general sense of forgetfulness and lack of clarity. He performed blood work in addition to the other procedures. He called me yesterday to tell me that my WBC level, especially my neutrophils, is low. He wants me to come back and have it retested. If the levels remain the same, I will need to consult a hematologist. Although I intend to do so, I would appreciate any guidance in the meantime. My symptoms are largely caused by persistent GI problems. However, I have recently started experiencing severe joint pain as well as discomfort deep in my bones. This is something I have been saying for almost a month. In addition, I am frequently ill. However, I was not unwell when I had my blood work done last week. I am achy, weary, fatigued, and weak all over. I have been feeling dizzy and weak and told my doctor about it earlier this week. Recently I have been sleeping more than usual, but have been unwell for the previous four years, so I simply put it up to being chronically ill. The issue that concerns me the most is that my WBC and neutrophil counts have plummeted dramatically since I visited rheumatology a few months ago, after which I saw my physician last week. My WBC count was 7.2 three months ago and is currently 3.4. My neutrophil count was 3.98 before and is now 1.1. I am curious about the probable causes of this sudden shift.

Please help

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Your primary concerns include poor focus, bone discomfort, a low total count, and neutrophilia, as well as some stomach problems.According to your report (showing a change in WBC count), active intervention may not be required.Temporary viral infections such as parvovirus and mononucleosis can cause bone marrow suppression and hence decreased neutrophil levels.If the total WBC count and neutrophil count remain low, the following are some possible explanations.

Typhoid.

Autoimmune disorders such as SLE.

An idiosyncratic response to certain medications.

Enlarged spleen is the source of the peripheral pooling.In your case, I suggest you undergo hypothyroidism, and renal and liver function tests performed first. Later followed by serum TSH, T4(thyroid levels), SGPT (serum glutamic - pyruvic transaminase), SGOT (serum glutamic - oxaloacetic transaminase), urea, and creatinine tests. A rheumatologist can also rule out autoimmune illness in your situation if necessary. Also, I would like to rule out any depressive issues, As depression can cause weariness, forgetfulness, nonspecific discomfort, and so on. It is often treated with Amitriptyline medication

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Regards.