Somewhat delayed update, but here goes.
I've been recording my training and diet for the past couple of weeks, with a view to posting a detailed log.
I've also paid attention to advice on the forum to get full bloodwork done prior to starting a cycle., and been waiting for results.
Turns out my cholesterol, haematocrit, MCHC, and MCV are all outside of normal range. Some of them way outside.
Obviously, this means the planned cycle is postponed until I get these sorted.
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Additionally though, my free testosterone came in at 8.83nmol/L and my free testosterone at 0.196nmol/L
The doctor who wrote the report for the bloods described this as very low normal, and advised that I should have my bloods redone in a fortnight, with a view to seeking TRT from my GP if the T levels remain low AND I'm experiencing symptoms of low T.
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Now that I know I've got low T, and I'm definitely experiencing symptoms, I'd like to be sure the second bloods come back with the right result, so I have an easier time persuading my GP to prescribe TRT.
GP = Family medical doctor, for those who aren't British
I've searched the internet for the past week, and picked up bits & pieces of info on how to temporarily lower my T levels...but a lot of it seems like guesswork, and a lot of it is contradictory.
Examples:
- Fasting. I'm able to water fast for several days if needed. Does this work?
- Eating a large meal shortly before the bloods. I can do this, but it contradicts the fasting advice.
- Sleep deprivation. I'm able to stay awake for 48 hours or more if needed. Does this work? I will be having my blood taken by a nurse, and the appt has to be early morning. I won't get a choice in the timing of this.
- Opiod meds. I have access to tramadol, and buprenophine patches. Do these work?
- Other meds. I have access to antihistamines, paracetamol, ibuprophen, and mirazapine. Do these work?
- Exercise. I've read that a heavy workout shortly before the bloods will lower my T levels...but I've also read that a heavy workout will boost my T levels...so don't know what to believe.
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Any suggestions would be very welcome.
Many thanks in advance for anyone who has anything to add.
btw....The number of times I've read on the forum to get bloods done before starting a cycle... I'm really glad I did. Spot on advice.
I'm not overjoyed at the results... But I'm really glad I found out now, and not while having a stroke or heart failure...