Hypovolemia?? Please explain symptoms and what it is?

[brethor]

Hi All!

Could someone please explain to me what hypovolemia is and what symptoms you would experience with it???? Everytime I get my blood work done it says I have low RDW and low MPV(mean platelet volume) and low lymphocytes. My dr is never concerned but I figure this has to mean something to my body. I suffer from chronic lightheadedness, balance issues and temperature deregulation.....among many other symptoms and am currently awaiting an appt to see an autonomic specialist. I would appreciate any insight anyone may have.

Many Thanks

Bren

[LivingInHope]

I hope you can get a referral to a hematologist doctor as soon as possible!  And I feel blessed to try to help!

[brethor]

Hi Surgi

Thanks for the fab info! I was just going thru all my health info to take to the specialist and noticed that in all of my blood tests dating back to when I initially had onset of symptoms three lab results have been consistent and chronically low; MPV, RDW and Lymphocytes....I wonder if that means anything or just highly coincidental??? Blood tests prior to onset were fine. I cant help but think there is a co-relation just not sure what. I am definately going to bring it up with the Rheumy or the Auto Dr. Thanks again for the info!

Bren

[LivingInHope]

Re: hypovolemia- it means low blood volume and symptoms of this can be tachycardia, lowered blood pressure, blacking out, faintness, breathing rapidly, etc..  It's possible not only to have hypovolemia with dysautonomia, but problems with temperature I believe as well.  And light-headedness is a common complaint amongst us who suffer from dysautonomia.  But also, please see my post above, as if your numbers are significantly below the reference range your lab uses, I feel you really should try to get that referral I mentioned!

[LivingInHope]

While you are waiting for your appointment to an autonomic specialist, regarding your bloodwork:

RDW has to do with the size distribution of your red blood cells.  It shows the degree of anisocytosis, which is the size variation of red blood cells.  RDW may be helpful to the doctor when considering certain anemias.  See private message for more info on this.

Low MPV can happen in bone marrow hypoplasia and with cytotoxic drugs according to a NIH article.  (See PM for more info)

Low lymphocytes- there are many possible causes for this (See PM).  But bottomline, if I may suggest, is tell your doctor your symptoms, remind him/her of your consistent abnormal labs and say you would like a referral to a hematologist  (hope you can find the best one in your area to request).

Also, regarding your balance issues- have you ruled out vestibular system at an ear, nose and throat specialist's and neck issues?