Clues in Bloodwork
by Dr. Shelby Worts, BSc, ND
Lab testing can help uncover the bigger picture behind common symptoms.
Did you know Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) can order lab tests*? We are really grateful we can, as sometimes a verbal health history and physical exam are not enough to uncover the cause of a patient’s symptoms.
A few recent cases at our clinic include:
A senior male came in with a lab report from elsewhere showing low vitamin B12—he wanted to receive B12 shots. Due to his recent history of joint pain, weight loss and fatigue, his ND ordered more tests and found much more was at play. This man has rheumatoid arthritis and a profound vitamin D deficiency (below detectable levels).
A senior female, also complaining of fatigue, was feeling exhausted due to her full-time job, obligations to an organization, and wanting to be there for her kids and grandkids. As she did not make time for her own needs, it could be assumed she simply needs to prioritize rest, nutrition and self-care. A comprehensive blood test panel showed she actually has diabetes.
A young couple who were experiencing challenges conceiving were worked up by our ND, who has a focus on fertility. It was found in the test results that the male has metabolic syndrome— including elevated cholesterol and blood sugar.
General examples we see on a rather regular basis include:
Hypothyroid patients being on hormone medication for years, but when we do a full thyroid panel, we find they actually have Hashimoto’s disease. This is an autoimmune condition and requires more support than simply taking hormone therapy.
Fatigue as a primary symptom, but the patient’s blood test for ferritin is repeatedly normal. Ferritin is a blood marker for iron; however, it is also
a marker for inflammation—so if inflammation is present in the body, it can mask an iron deficiency. NDs can order a full iron panel to explore whether there actually is a deficiency of this essential mineral.
Family history of diabetes. If only glucose or A1c are being monitored, they may be missing the development of insulin resistance. Testing glucose and insulin (fasting) at the same time will indicate whether this is an issue they need to address.
NDs can also re-test as often as indicated to monitor the patient’s response to treatment.
Not only can NDs order these tests, but they also know how to act on the results. This not only includes a naturopathic treatment plan, but in many cases includes sending the lab results and a letter to the patient’s primary healthcare provider (with the mpatient’s consent, of course)—such as in the cases of rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes mentioned above.
If you would like to explore your symptoms further and think lab tests may be helpful, speak to your ND—we love to solve problems and help you feel better! E
* While lab testing by NDs is not covered by OHIP, they are often covered by extended health benefits.
This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please discuss your individual symptoms, lab testing options and treatment decisions with a qualified healthcare practitioner. Patient examples have been generalized to protect privacy.
