How I’m dealing with the news that my inflammation levels are high

I recently had what I call a “day of doctors.” I had multiple specialist appointments coming up, so I planned them all for the same day.

First, I met with a hematologist to figure out why my white blood cell count has been so high. The doctor offered several possibilities, including inflammation and low iron. Then, of course, I did a ton of blood work.

It took only a few hours to get my labs back. I had very low carbon dioxide levels (which I didn’t even know was possible), and every single inflammation marker was high. And I’m not talking a little high. For example, I had a lactate dehydrogenase, or LDH, test done, which can be an indicator of tissue damage. A normal range is 140–280 units/liter; my LDH level was over 200 U/L too high.

I then had to follow up with my primary care provider about my high white blood cell count and general hormone levels. Luckily, the latter looked good.

My final stop was the podiatrist. I’ve had severe foot pain for a month now, and a trip to urgent care offered no results. After sticking my feet up awkwardly for 20 minutes, my new podiatrist determined that I had an inflamed nerve, which is another thing I didn’t even know was possible.

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I went home with mixed feelings. I had answers, and they all pointed to one thing: I had too much inflammation in my body. My doctors explained that this can happen in people with Cushing’s disease. Now I have to tackle it and try to get my body healthier.

Please note that the following is my own plan for reducing inflammation, created with help from my medical team. Always consult a doctor before making changes to your medication regimen, diet, or lifestyle.

Medication

First and foremost, I’m relying on my doctors to help me manage this issue. I’m taking an anti-inflammatory for two weeks as an initial treatment, mostly for my foot. During this time, I will be monitored closely, as my podiatrist said that anti-inflammatories can interact with my Cushing’s medication, ketoconazole.

Diet and lifestyle

I’m also implementing some diet and lifestyle changes to help reduce the high inflammation levels in my body.

The first thing I plan on doing is taking turmeric supplements. My mom makes them and adds a bit of pepper to activate the turmeric, which is a natural anti-inflammatory. I’ll take a few each week and include more of the spice in my meals.

I will also attempt to stick to an anti-inflammatory diet. This means I’ll be avoiding inflammatory foods, such as red meat, processed meat, baked goods, bread and pasta (sigh), deep-fried foods, high-sugar foods and beverages, and trans fats. I’ll focus on eating more grilled vegetables, salads, fish, fruits, and foods rich in vitamin C. In addition, I plan to consume more green tea and ginger, which are known to have anti-inflammatory properties.

This diet won’t be a huge change for me; usually I only stray from it when I’m eating out or feeling sick. I’ll up my fish intake and be more mindful overall. A lot of people recommend the Mediterranean diet for combating inflammation, and it seems to align with my goals, so I will incorporate that diet as well.

Lastly, I’m going to step up my sleep and exercise routines. I’ve been slacking a bit lately, and I need to take better care of myself. Sleep especially has eluded me lately, as I’ve been stressed about my career, my health, and my future. I need to get that in order, or at least try.

It’s hard to make lifestyle changes, and it can be scary when test results show high inflammation levels. I’m trying to keep a positive outlook, and having action items makes that a bit easier for me.

You can also follow my journey on TikTok and YouTube.

Note: Cushing’s Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cushing’s Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Cushing’s.