Okay I feel like a total moron asking this but...

[Poconos]

Before you do the desparate route and start chucking stuff in the pool I'd try diluting the sample with distilled and then testing if you suspect way high TA. You can also try testing well or tap water as a sanity check. My wells and stream always show a low (<50 ppm) level of TA. If you dilute with distilled water 1:1 then double the reading. 2:1 triple etc. You can also bring a sample to a pool store and let them test it. Just don't buy any chemicals.
Al