A blood test is one of the most common diagnostic procedures conducted by healthcare providers. But, have you wondered why this is so? Blood is a combination of vital nutrients, including proteins, hormones, enzymes, minerals, etc. It is also responsible for transporting oxygen to each and every cell of the body.
Blood examinations offer detailed insights into your health, detecting potential underlying issues and diagnosing existing conditions in advance. In this following guide, you will understand what bloods tests are and how are they helpful so you can take active control of your health.
Also, we will walk you through the various types of blood tests, plus guide you on how to prepare and interpret the outcomes. This will help you attend your future appointments in an informed way and with ease. Read on below.
Why Obtain a Blood Test?
As mentioned, blood tests offer various vital insights into your health. However, to be more specific, doctors recommend a blood test for the following reasons.
- Routine Health Checks: Checking metabolic parameters form the biggest part of routine health checks. These are highly beneficial in detecting health disorders early.
- Risk Assessment: If chronic conditions, such as, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hypertension, etc., run in your family, blood tests can help evaluate the risk factors even before the symptoms appear.
- Diagnosis of Potential Symptoms: If you have been experiencing abnormal symptoms for a fairly long time, blood tests can help find out the true culprit behind!
- Keeping a Track of Chronic Conditions: Long-term illnesses, (especially metabolic ones) like high blood sugar, high cholesterol need regular blood work to monitor the effectiveness of ongoing treatments.
- Pre-Surgery Checks: Before undergoing any surgical procedure, blood tests help look into the presence of conditions like anaemia or clotting problems.
- Pregnancy Confirmation: Pregnant women must have routine blood assessments to check for underlying complications. This helps ensure good health for both the mother and the unborn child. ]
- Genetic Testing: Blood samples are highly beneficial in recognising inherited diseases and risks that may run in the family.
Other reasons to obtain blood tests are as follows:
- Determining organ function
- Diagnosing systemic infections
- Assessing immunological health
- Detecting nutritional deficiencies
Common Blood Tests and What They Assess?
Several types of blood tests are available, each one giving unique information into your current health status. Some of the most common ones are:
- Full Blood Count (FBC): This test checks for the presence of red and white blood cells, platelets, haemoglobin, etc. FBC is mainly beneficial in detecting pathogenic infections, blood diseases and iron deficiency.
- Urea and Electrolytes (U&E): Helps to know whether the kidneys are performing well.
- Liver Function Test (LFT): It checks for enzymes and proteins produced by the liver.
- Lipid Profile: Evaluates cholesterol levels, encompassing HDL (“beneficial” cholesterol) and LDL (“harmful” cholesterol). Crucial for cardiovascular well-being.
- Thyroid Function Test: Evaluates thyroid hormones to identify thyroid issues.
- Blood Glucose Examination: Assesses sugar levels in the blood to identify and track diabetes.
- HbA1c Test: Assesses blood sugar management over an extended period in diabetes.
- Iron Analyses: Aids in identifying iron deficiency anemia or conditions of iron excess.
- Inflammatory Markers (CRP/ESR): Identifies inflammation within the body, potentially signaling infections or autoimmune disorders.
- Clotting Tests (INR/PT/APTT): Evaluates the efficiency of your blood’s clotting process, crucial for individuals on anticoagulants or experiencing bleeding disorders.
- Tests for Vitamins and Minerals: Can assess for shortages in vitamin D, B12, folate, and additional nutrients.
- Tests for Infection and Immunity: Encompasses assessments for issues such as HIV, hepatitis, and immune system effectiveness.
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Blood tests: How to Prepare?
For obtaining precise results, following certain guidelines is important. Here are a few tips that you must consider:
- Fasting: Some blood tests necessitate fasting for a period of 8-12 hours (such as cholesterol, blood glucose testing, etc.). You are only allowed to have water, unless told otherwise.
- Medication and Supplements: Inform your doctor about any medicines or supplements that you might be taking currently. You need to pause using them as they can hamper with the results.
- Hydration: Drink water as much as possible so that blood can be drawn easily from the veins.
- Strenuous workouts and Alcohol: Avoid doing too much hardcore exercise before taking a blood test. Also, you must not have alcohol for this can give improper results.
What to Expect During a Blood Test?
After you arrive at the MD.co.uk, a healthcare professional (preferably a phlebotomist) will ask you about your personal details. This is followed by the steps below:
- Preparation: The region of your arm where the syringe is to be injected will be sterilised with rubbing alcohol. Thereafter, a tourniquet is tied above the arm – this makes the veins more visible and easier to access. You may be asked to clench your fist to further enhance vein prominence.
- Blood Sample Collection: A small needle is implemented to draw the blood, generally from the inner side of the elbow region. You might feel a slight pinch or sting during the insertion. Once the required amount of blood is collected, the needle is removed and the blood is transferred into one or more vials for testing.
- Aftercare: A plaster is applied on the injected site until the blood has clotted. Gentle pressure may be applied with a cotton ball to stop bleeding. Do not try to lift heavy weights for a few days, and keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. Some minor bruising or swelling is normal and usually resolves on its own.
Blood tests are usually rapid and almost pain-free. However, some individuals may experience mild bruising, lightheartedness, or dizziness. Staying well-hydrated and eating something beforehand can help minimise discomfort.
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Understanding Blood Test Results
Your blood test outcomes will typically involve the following:
- Numerical Values: They indicate the quantities of the various components present in the blood.
- Reference Ranges: It is simply about the ‘normal’ value range for healthy individuals.
- Flags: This happens when the results come extremely high or low. Flags often necessitate follow-up appointments.
Depending on your overall health and current symptoms, your healthcare provider will evaluate your results.
Conclusion
Blood tests play an essential role in monitoring your health. They provide valuable information about specific underlying conditions, and help you actively participate in maintaining your well-being. Whether you want to obtain routine blood work or confirm a particular condition, feel contact your nearest medical clinic.
