I’m home from an appointment with my nephrologist (kidney doctor) who I'll refer to as "nephro". It was funner than usual because there were medical students observing and helping. I like that opportunity to put on a show. Dr. Nephro said I was a “particularly interesting patient” because of my illnesses (namely bipolar disorder). At one point, he asked me who my “shrink” is. I responded “Shrink?!?! I hate that word! You mean my psychiatrist?” I said that with humor, but I actually meant it. I remember an old psychologist saying he liked the word "shrink". I didn’t buy his reasons. I still find the word offensive. What do you think?

Well, my blood test results were as bad as I thought they would be. My triglycerides were waaaaaaay higher than in past years. Nephro told me to cut down on the carbs, so I told him that I wouldn’t stop at the Dunkin Donuts on my way home. My total cholesterol was predictably high, but ever so slightly lower than last time. The LDL was worse (and high), but the HDL was not only better, but even normal. What am I doing right with the HDL vs. the LDL and total cholesterol? My glucose was in the high range, but only by 1 mg/dL. That’s still not good considering that it had been normal for years. Too many Christmas cookies, I guess! My kidney function is unchanged, which Nephro said is a very good thing. He said that I likely drink plenty of water, which I do. He even drew the medical students’ attention to the fact that my sodium levels are especially good compared to other patients of his. He also mentioned a contrast between that and the likely sodium levels of people on Lithium. I only go to the nephrologist because of Lithium-induced kidney damage. He says it's been about 6 years since my Lithium was discontinued.

Nephro asked me about the last time I had a Tegretol level. I had to admit that though I love my psychiatrist, he is delinquent about ordering this test. I understand since I have no signs of Tegretol toxicity. The last time I had double vision, Pdoc reduced my dose and all was well again. As for other blood tests, between my GP and Nephro, there seems no need for more. I always give Pdoc copies of test results. Nevertheless, Nephro said he’d be seeing my Pdoc in a few days. I wonder if he'll remember to mention the Tegretol level issue. If he does, I hope he doesn’t tell Pdoc that I referred to him as “delinquent” about it.

I can do very low saturated fat, but very low carb, not for too long. I will lower my carbs and try to switch to whole grains for the ones I do eat. I'm not into deprivation, but I realize that high fat-high sugar "treats" should be occasional, and not daily.