Full blood count results

[Jellybean82]

I recently got a copy of my full blood count results which shows the following abnormalities:
Red blood count (RBC) - HI - 5.09
Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) - LO - 81
Mean corpusc. haemoglobin (MCH) - LO - 25.7
Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) - HI - 14.9
The bloods were taken after a week of feeling exhausted but since then I have developed other, more worrying symptoms such as aching joints, numbness/tingling in arms and legs, visual disturbances, tinnitus, dizziness and general weakness. Do my blood results indicate anything that could contribute to the way I'm feeling? My gp did not mention anything was abnormal with my results and has basically said that she doesn't know why I feel so awful. I really need to find out what's going on and would be extremely grateful for any opinions and advice. Thank you.

[Jellybean82]

Hello again doctor, I have just been told that I have peroxidase antibodies show up on my thyroid test. My thyroid level was 2.51 two months ago. Could this be causing my symptoms too? I had a baby 3 months ago, is this postpartum thyroiditis? Thank you for your help

[Jellybean82]

Thank you very much. I have been taking a liquid iron and b12 supplement for two weeks and feel loads better. Hoping the tingling will go away in due course as I have a really annoying patch on my left shoulder blade that just won't stop! I really appreciate you taking the time to answer my question. Thanks again x

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi!
High RDW (red cell distribution width) means that there are red blood cells of varying sizes. High RDW with low MCH indicates there is mixed anemia due to low iron and vit B12. Since the RBC are high, it's also possible that you either live in high altitudes, or have polycythemia vera, or some respiratory disorder. You need to consult a hematologist. Your symptoms can be due to low vit B12 and iron or due to other causes. Hypertension or high blood pressure can also cause tinnitus and visual disturbances. But since you have numbness/tingling in arms and legs, visual disturbances, tinnitus, dizziness and general weakness, you probably have polycythemia vera.   Take care!