Hematocrit blood donation rejection

[Pzb]

Hello,
Since starting my TRT therapy, my hematocrit has steadily increased (acceptable Range 40.1 to 50.1). My doctor said if it continues to increase arrange an appointment with a hematologist.

Stats:
45 to 48.3 before TRT
51.3 after 10 months post TRT


So today, I decided to do a whole blood donation. To my surprise, my finger prick hematocrit test was 57. The threshold was 46 according to her.

Has anyone experienced this and have recommendations? My last venous blood test was only 10 days ago with the reading of 51.3.
I’ll recheck tomorrow just to make certain that wasn’t goofed up.

Should I keep trying the blood donation- maybe shake my hands more?

Any thoughts?

[Cuz]

Well your dr must be an idiot he should know testosterone greatly increases red blood cell count therefore increasing hematocrit levels. Blood donation is necessary usually 2-3 times per year according to your levels.
As for them turning you away, idk where you are but both organizations here turn you away with an iron level of 20.0 or greater. Which is about a 55 ish level or higher of hemocrit. The Red Cross will take it up until 20.0

[Cylon357]

Hello,
Since starting my TRT therapy, my hematocrit has steadily increased (acceptable Range 40.1 to 50.1). My doctor said if it continues to increase arrange an appointment with a hematologist.

Stats:
45 to 48.3 before TRT
51.3 after 10 months post TRT


So today, I decided to do a whole blood donation. To my surprise, my finger prick hematocrit test was 47. The threshold was 46 according to her.

Has anyone experienced this and have recommendations? My last venous blood test was only 10 days ago with the reading of 51.3.
I’ll recheck tomorrow just to make certain that wasn’t goofed up.

Should I keep trying the blood donation- maybe shake my hands more?

Any thoughts?

They don't check hematocrit here (Florida) at One Blood. They do check iron, though, and have a lower threshold that I have missed once when I had a known bleeding issue.

You COULD ask the doc for an order for a "therapeutic phlebotomy", basically a drain and dump type of thing. Alternately, and probably better, find a different donation center like @Cuz suggested, like the Red Cross or similar.

[Cuz]

They don't check hematocrit here (Florida) at One Blood. They do check iron, though, and have a lower threshold that I have missed once when I had a known bleeding issue.

You COULD ask the doc for an order for a "therapeutic phlebotomy", basically a drain and dump type of thing. Alternately, and probably better, find a different donation center like @Cuz suggested, like the Red Cross or similar.

Yeah dr ordered phlebotomy is my last resort. Ive had it done and wont again because the hag that took the blood bruised my entire left forearm. Totally unnecessary and bad experience i just pull a panel every three months now

[almostgone]

Hello,
Since starting my TRT therapy, my hematocrit has steadily increased (acceptable Range 40.1 to 50.1). My doctor said if it continues to increase arrange an appointment with a hematologist.

Stats:
45 to 48.3 before TRT
51.3 after 10 months post TRT


So today, I decided to do a whole blood donation. To my surprise, my finger prick hematocrit test was 57. The threshold was 46 according to her.

Has anyone experienced this and have recommendations? My last venous blood test was only 10 days ago with the reading of 51.3.
I’ll recheck tomorrow just to make certain that wasn’t goofed up.

Should I keep trying the blood donation- maybe shake my hands more?

Any thoughts?

Usually they measure hemoglobin with the finger stick test. To get a rough idea of hematocrit, multiply by 3.

The accurate method of determining hematocrit is by spinning out your blood sample in a centrifuge and measure the percentage of red blood cells.

As mentioned above, donation is the least aggravating way to keep HCT in range. With a Dr. ordered phlebotomy, they charge you and then throw the blood away. It's costs about $80+ where I live and it is very frustrating to pay them and then watch them trash the blood.

Get on the habit of pulling a periodic CBC (at least), donating when possible, and keep an eye on your platelet count as well. Additionally, stay well hydrated.