Hello,
I have a similar story. I am also very active, avid outdoor rock climbing and running., and diagnosed at age 49 in 2023 after I asked for blood tests because I was feeling unmotivated and wasn’t recovering from workouts. Same symptoms as menopause or low thyroid hormone. But like you my bloodwork was really strange so after lots of tests was finally diagnosed with CAD.
Despite being very diligent about cold temperature, I find that my symptoms are triggered by cold viruses, severe hay fever, or inflammatory responses. With mild symptoms and moderately abnormal RBCs I find that I can’t train properly but I can feel better faster by doing regular light cardio, like on an elliptical machine.
The typical advice for low RBC just doesn’t make sense for because of the high iron levels that you point out.
I have found very little information on how CAD affects athletes so I was happy to see your post, and I hope your management is going well.