What You Need to Know About Blood Testing
Sourced reference. This entry is compiled from MedlinePlus and is reproduced for reference rather than written by eMed7. Reference ranges differ between laboratories — always read a result against the range printed on your own report.
Blood tests are used to measure or look at cells, chemicals, proteins, or other substances in your blood. Blood testing, also known as blood work, is one of the most common types of lab tests. Blood work is often included as part of a regular checkup.
Blood tests are also used to: Help diagnose certain diseases and conditions.; Monitor a chronic (long-lasting) disease or condition, such as diabetes or high cholesterol.; Find out if treatment for a disease is working.; Check how well your organs are working. Your organs include your liver, kidneys, heart, and thyroid.; Help diagnose bleeding or clotting disorders.; Find out if your immune system is having trouble fighting infections.;
How to prepare
You don't need any special preparations for most blood tests. For some tests, you may need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before your test.
You may need to stop taking certain medicines before your test, so tell your provider about everything you take. But don't stop taking any medicines unless your provider tells you to.
Your provider will let you know if there are any special instructions to follow.
Sample type
Blood
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- ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK536919— MedlinePlus
- nhlbi.nih.gov/health/blood-tests— MedlinePlus
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Educational content only. This entry describes what a test measures and how published reference ranges are defined. It is not a diagnosis, does not interpret your personal results, and is not a substitute for a qualified doctor.