How Ryland Ramirez treated high alkaline phosphatase?

 Note - This article is written by one of our patients about their experiences with high alkaline phosphatase. 

My name is Ryland Ramirez, and during a routine checkup, I received some unexpected news that completely rocked my world. I recently got married to Daniel, the love of my life, and we were excitedly making plans for the future. Our aspirations included having children and creating a happy, joyous life. A straightforward blood test, however, yielded a startling finding that would irrevocably alter our lives.

On a bright morning, I made the decision to go see my primary care doctor for my annual checkup. I had been suffering intermittent abdominal pain and weariness, but I ignored the symptoms since I thought it was just wedding-related stress. Daniel suggested, nonetheless, that I have it examined for my own peace of mind. I consented to go to the doctor, thinking it wouldn't be anything serious because he was always my rock.

With kind nurses and a relaxed setting, the appointment appeared to be typical. My symptoms and medical background were discussed, and the doctor suggested a number of blood tests, one of which was to evaluate my liver function. I went to the lab without giving it much thought, figuring the findings would be normal.

 Note - More stories from other patients at the end of this page 

I got a call from my doctor's office a few days later requesting me to come in for a follow-up visit. My heart skipped a beat as anxiety seized me. Why would they prefer in-person discussion of the results than a phone call? My gut began to clench as my thoughts raced with ideas.

Daniel grabbed my hand and pulled me into the doctor's office. My uneasiness was heightened by the sterile odour and the quiet conversations. The doctor finally entered with a concerned look on her face. I sensed that there was a serious problem.

My alkaline phosphatase levels were excessive, measuring at 296. She sat down and calmly explained everything. My number was more than treble the average range of 20 to 140 units per litre. My eyes began to well up with tears as the news hit me like a tonne of bricks. Daniel gave me the courage to embark on this risky trip by giving me an even tighter hand squeeze.

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The doctor went on to discuss possible causes of elevated alkaline phosphatase levels. She alluded to conditions affecting the liver, gallbladder, bones, or specific drugs. More tests were required to identify the precise cause. She gave me the assurance that she would recommend me to an expert who could guide me through this process.

Weeks passed by, punctuated by countless doctor's appointments, scans, and biopsies. Our lives were overrun by medical jargon and uncertainty, and each test brought a mixture of optimism and anxiety. My anchor during the storm was Daniel, who stood by my side and never wavered in his love and support.

After what seemed like a lifetime, we finally obtained a conclusive diagnosis. It turned out that I had primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), an uncommon liver illness. PBC is an autoimmune condition that gradually destroys the liver's bile ducts, raising alkaline phosphatase levels. I found it difficult to comprehend that my own body was betraying me in such a fundamental way after hearing the devastating news.

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I was overcome with emotion at hearing the news, which was overpowering. Daniel remained my support despite my feelings of fear, rage, and despair. We agreed to work together to overcome this obstacle by learning as much as we could about PBC and obtaining the best medical care possible.

I was introduced to a group of professionals who would help me manage my disease, and treatment started right away. PBC symptoms were reduced and the disease's progression was slowed down with medication. Counselling and support groups were an essential part of our life, giving us comfort and a sense of community.

Daniel and I decided to concentrate on the positives despite the difficult path ahead. Every little success was cherished, and we treasured the happy times we had. As we overcame the difficulties of PBC together, our love became deeper and our connection became unbreakable.

My alkaline phosphatase levels started to stabilise, and the symptoms got easier to control. We changed our way of life and adopted a healthy diet as we adapted to our new world. We became into supporters of programmes for funding research, participating in fundraisers, and bringing attention to PBC.

Daniel and I never wavered in our dedication to our goals. We refused to let the disease define us, despite the additional difficulties brought on by our infertility issues. We looked at other ways to become parents before adopting a lovely child and starting a family.

I am appreciative of the route that got us here today. Undoubtedly shocking, the diagnosis of elevated alkaline phosphatase also stoked a fire within of me. I've discovered the value of cherishing each and every moment as well as the strength of love and resilience.

Even though life may not always go according to our intentions, it is through adversity that we come to understand who we really are. Daniel and I keep looking forward to each day with thankfulness, confident that we can get through any challenge that comes our way. PBC may have contributed to my experience, but neither who I am nor how I live my life are defined by it.

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