Have you ever walked out of a doctor’s appointment feeling uneasy after hearing that your pathology results are “fine,” only to continue feeling unwell?

You’re not alone. Many people grapple with the disconnect between what their lab results indicate and how they actually feel. This discrepancy may boil down to reviewing Standard Ranges, rather than looking into Optimal Ranges in pathology testing.

What are Optimal Ranges?

When your doctor interprets pathology results, they typically compare your values to Reference Ranges which are established by laboratories.

These ranges represent the “normal” levels for a healthy population. However, what’s deemed normal doesn’t always equate to optimal health.  Optimal Health ranges are more narrow and utilised to see where your body may be asking whispering for help…

Optimal Ranges take a more personalized approach, focusing on what’s best for your individual health rather than just what’s statistically normal. They consider factors like age, gender, activity level, and overall well-being.

Why Optimal Ranges matter

Early Detection: Relying solely on reference ranges can lead to missed opportunities for early intervention. For example, if your vitamin D levels are on the low end of the reference range, you may not experience obvious symptoms yet, but optimizing those levels could improve your energy and mood.

Preventive Health: Optimal ranges focus on preventing illness rather than just diagnosing it. They emphasize maintaining levels that promote well-being, helping you avoid potential health issues down the line.

Common Misunderstandings

“Normal” Doesn’t Mean Healthy: Just because your results fall within the reference range doesn’t mean you’re thriving. For instance, a thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level might be normal, but if it’s on the higher side, you could be experiencing symptoms of hypothyroidism that impact your daily life.

Chronic Conditions: If you have a chronic condition, what’s considered “normal” for the general population may not apply to you. Conditions like autoimmune disorders or metabolic syndrome require a tailored approach that considers optimal levels for your specific situation.

What can you do?

Advocate for Yourself: If your lab results come back “normal” but you’re still feeling off, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor for a deeper dive. Discuss your symptoms in detail and inquire about whether there are optimal ranges for the specific tests you’ve had.

Consult with a Naturopath or Clinical Nutritionist: These healthcare professionals often focus on optimal ranges and look at the body as an interconnected system. They may offer more comprehensive testing and personalized treatment plans.

Stay Informed: Educate yourself about what optimal ranges look like for different tests

Conclusion

Feeling unwell despite “fine” pathology results is more common than you might think. Understanding the difference between reference ranges and optimal ranges can empower you to take charge of your health.

Don’t settle for vague reassurances; strive for a deeper understanding of your body and advocate for the optimal health you deserve. After all, your health is not just about numbers on a lab report—it’s about how you feel every day.