27Jul/104
How to ask to be tested for a Vitamin D deficiency?
I have a lot of symptoms that match up to those of a Vitamin D deficiency. I am going in to my doctor today, and I want to ask to have this blood test done (numerous other blood tests have been done with no conclusion as to why I feel the way I do). How do I best bring it up? My doctor is...how do I say this, sort of an idiot-but my insurance is military so I cant change at the moment.
Thanks.
July 27th, 2010 - 11:33
Vitamin D testing is pretty much standard here in Seattle area where I live but no matter where you live you can be deficient.
Tell him that due to a lack of outdoor activities (or use of high SPF sun screen when outside) you feel like you might be deficient. Tell him that you made a little bit of a research and your symptoms do match those of Vitamin D deficiency; however you are not a doctor and though you came to ask his advise.
If your doctor seems reluctant, just request for the test to be done and if he still refuses, remember you can safely take 2000 – 3000 units a day on your own to see if there is any improvement.
July 27th, 2010 - 11:33
Say that you don’t get out in the sun much and are concerned about your vit d levels. It’s just about being confident with doctors sometimes. Most of them love themselves and get arrogant, but learning to stand up for yourself is always a good thing.
July 27th, 2010 - 11:33
Laurel,
It is very difficult to offer advice in a situation that is hypothetical. Some medical professionals take a view that no one without a medical qualification is able to discuss a medical matter with them. You do not indicate that this is the problem. Having had “numerous other blood tests” one would conjecture in the way that you use to request this from your doctor, you might word it in a similar fashion to – “ that as they (previous blood tests) have all proved negative and as the symptoms that I have appear to resemble those of a deficiency of Vitamin D, as it indicates in ***” – whatever reference you have obtained this information from – “would a Vitamin D deficiency blood test be a possible way to exclude a vitamin D deficiency?” I should mention here, that blood tests are available that measure the two forms of vitamin D: 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (circulating) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (active). Each test is given for specific diagnostic purposes. They can be used to monitor disease state or supplement effects. Whatever test is used, it must be measured and interpreted accurately. Recent studies have shown that some testing methods give inaccurate results (I quote here, – Garland, et. al. Int. J. Epidemiol. 2006 Apr;35(2):217-20) and the mistaken belief that vitamin D levels are normal when in reality they are much lower. Consult with your doctor to determine which test is best for you and investigate which testing method is used. Vitamin D deficiency is a hidden epidemic around the world. The importance of vitamin D in human health is only now starting to come to light. If you want to monitor your vitamin D status, there are tests to detect a deficiency. Consult with your doctor to find an effective and accurate test for you.
ALL ANSWERS SHOULD BE THOROUGHLY RESEARCHED, IN ANY FORUM AND ESPECIALLY IN THIS ONE. – MANY ANSWERS ARE FLAWED.
It is extremely important to obtain an accurate diagnosis before trying to find a cure. Many diseases and conditions share common symptoms.
The information provided here should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.
Hope this helps
matador 89
July 27th, 2010 - 11:33
I am married to a doctor and I can tell you that the best thing to do is to get straight to the point! Just go in there and say exactly what you want. There is no need for a long explanation just keep it short. You can read more about vitamins at http://vitmain-b.blogspot.com