Brian’s fitness journal after a brain stroke
After my recent visit to the nephrologist, I learned a few important things about my current health. One of the biggest concerns was how to maintain my kidney health and anemia.
First, the good news: my latest blood panel showed that my potassium levels have returned to normal. That was a relief. The dietary changes I’ve been following seem to be working, so I plan to continue them carefully. With kidney conditions, consistency matters more than enthusiasm. One good result does not mean I can suddenly negotiate with potassium again.
However, the appointment also revealed that I have become anemic.
This part was not entirely surprising. I have a genetic blood condition called thalassemia, which often makes me appear anemic on lab results. My nephrologist already knows this, but the lab report suggests that this time the anemia relates more directly to my kidney condition rather than genetics alone. Because of that, I received a referral to a hematologist.
Hearing the word “anemia” brought back memories of the year I had my brain stroke. At that time, I lost a significant amount of blood, and my kidneys were in stage 5 condition. The combination made the anemia much worse, and I had to receive injections to stabilize my blood levels.
Compared to that period, my situation now is far more stable.
It is possible that my current blood count needs support again, likely through a hormone injection such as Epogen. I took this treatment shortly after my stroke, and it was manageable, even if not particularly enjoyable. Today, the hematologist’s office contacted me to schedule an appointment for next week, which means the next step is already in motion. I may not be excited about it, but it is necessary, and I prefer to address issues early rather than wait for them to worsen.
On days like this, I remind myself to move forward one step at a time.
Objectively, my condition has improved compared to the past. After the stroke, my kidneys were near stage 5. Now they are closer to stage 3, which is meaningful progress. Yes, I am slightly anemic, but many of my other health markers have improved over the past few months.
When I compare the present to where I once was, the difference is clear.
This is not a decline. This is management.
And for chronic health conditions, steady improvement—however gradual—is a victory worth acknowledging.