Blood testing is a routine part of preventive health.

We use them to monitor health and diagnose any medical problems that may occur.

These tests are generally simple, with almost no risk and minimal discomfort.

This article discusses the uses and types of blood tests and how to interpret the results.

What Can Blood Tests Detect?

They can also be used as an assessment of physical functions.

Some blood tests require preparation to ensure accurate results.

Some tubes contain material to maintain the components that are being tested.

Then the sample is sent to the laboratory for testing.

Below are common types of blood tests.

A CBC includes:

A CBC also provides information about the size of each blood cell pop in.

Bicarbonate reflects whether there is an imbalance in acid and base in the blood.

Severe abnormalities in these values can often indicate a medical emergency.

People often wonder why a variety of tubes are used to collect blood.

Which are drawn depend on the test, as some need specific additives in the tube.

How Often Should You Get Blood Work Done?

Blood test frequency can vary.

The types of blood tests you may need, and the collection schedule will depend.

The cadence of blood work depends on the reason for theblood draw.

This can include:

Understanding Blood Test Results

Usually, blood test results are reported as numbers.

The value thats being measuredsuch as calcium or hemoglobinis compared to the standard or ideal value.

The reported numbers from your blood test are not usually enough to make a diagnosis.

If you are having an emergency blood test in a hospital, it might take less than an hour.

It can take longer for results of specialized test results to come back.

How Does Your Blood bang out Impact Overall Health?

Yourblood typeis one of the things that can be measured with a blood test.

Blood jot down is designated by two types of markersthe ABO jot down and the Rh jot down.

Blood types include:

All these blood types are perfectly healthy.

A Word From Verywell

Getting a blood test is generally a simple procedure with very little risk.

The process can be stressful, though, if you are afraid of needles or worried about test results.

you might also ask how long it will take for results to come back.

2022;40(2):431-441. doi:10.1016/j.emc.2022.01.003

MedlinePlus.Kidney function tests.

American Heart Association.HDL (good), LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides.