I recently started strength training using the barbell (StrongLifts 5x5) 2 weeks prior to my physical exam. I went from working out 1-2 times a week to 4-5 times a week. My blood work reported elevated lymphocytes levels of 49 and the FOBT test came in positive. My physician wants me to go and see a GI. Based on my research, I read some articles that mentioned lymphocytes get elevated after strenuous activity. I contacted my physician and requested a second blood and FOBT test. I have not noticed any depletion in energy levels, appetite, and weight loss.
I would really like to hear your thoughts regarding elevated lymphocytes and positive FOBT test when working out.
How old are you? I unfortunately do not have enough information to make an informed comment on these findings. They may be completely independent of one another (in other words, the elevated lymphocyte count likely has nothing to do with the positive FOBT). Elevated lymphocyte counts can come from numerous causes, or may be completely spurious/irrelevant. I cannot confidently attribute it to your training.
I would ask, however, why you had the FOBT testing done? In general, I’m not a big fan of fecal occult blood testing for various reasons, but now that you have a positive result, the recommendation for further evaluation via gastroenterology is probably not going to change, even if your repeat testing is negative.
Thanks a lot for your response. I’m a 46 year old male. My physician recommends the test every year during a physical. I made an appointment with the GI and will see what he says.