Blood tests are one of the most common medical tests performed around the world. It involves taking a small sample of blood from your body to analyse it for various medical conditions. Although many people tend to shy away from getting a blood test done, it is one of the most important diagnostic tools that can be used to detect various health conditions.
Having a regular blood test can pick up signs and indicators of health issues before they become a problem. Blood tests measure how well your organs and body systems work and check vitamin levels, blood sugar, organ function, and other health-impacting elements.
In this article, we will discuss three reasons you should consider getting a blood test, and how it can benefit you in the long run. So, let’s dive in and explore why blood testing is crucial to your overall health and well-being.
1. Check vitamins and nutrients
A blood test can measure important vitamins in the body, including vitamin D and B12; if you have been suffering from low mood or have unexplained fatigue, these symptoms could be due to lower-than-normal vitamin levels. Specialists’ blood tests can also discover food intolerances and check amino acids, enzymes, or protein levels to uncover deficiencies or irregularities.
2. Monitor organ function
Our organs need to operate efficiently to perform individual functions, and if something isn’t working as it should, a blood test can help to identify where the problem is originating from. A blood test can check for organ function and provide insights into how well organs like the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys function.
3. Review health conditions
Common ailments among adults include anaemia and diabetes, both of which can go undetected. A blood test will show if there are issues with low iron stores within the blood which can lead to fatigue. Detection of low levels enables treatment to start earlier to correct the deficiency. Problems with blood sugars that indicate diabetes will identify if the condition is prevalent, and patients can be referred for an appropriate treatment plan sooner rather than later.
Here are some of the most common blood tests you should get:
Comprehensive Health Check Blood Test: This test checks everything from the kidneys to the liver, and blood count to the thyroid. It represents an excellent screening test for health.
Diabetes Blood Test: Used for monitoring average blood sugar levels over the previous three months and can also be used to help monitor response to treatment for diabetes or lifestyle changes.
Preparing for a blood test
- Please ensure that you are well-hydrated with water
Wear short-sleeved clothes or those that you can pull easily above your elbow - Please tell the practitioner if you ever feel faint or have fainted during a blood draw; the practitioner will be able to support you to make the process as easy as possible
Some blood tests are fasting (where you can’t eat food for some time but can drink water). These will come with specific instructions. - Following a blood test, direct pressure should be applied to the site where the blood was taken to reduce the chance of bruising occurring.
Having a blood test will not cure health conditions, but it is useful for monitoring health and forewarning possible medical issues. Sometimes, this early warning may allow issues to be corrected before becoming life-threatening or challenging to manage. Anyone considering having a blood test should do so as part of good health management.
Common Q&A about Blood Test
A blood test is a laboratory analysis of a blood sample taken from the body, usually from a vein in the arm. It helps diagnose diseases, monitor health conditions, and assess organ function.
Doctors order blood tests to check for various health conditions, including infections, diseases, and organ function. They are also used to monitor chronic conditions like diabetes, cholesterol levels, and more.
Some blood tests require fasting, where you refrain from eating or drinking (except water) for 8-12 hours. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on preparation for the test.
The discomfort is usually minimal. Most people feel a small prick when the needle is inserted, and any soreness usually fades quickly after the procedure.
The timing for results depends on the type of test. Some results may be available within a few hours, while others may take a few days or longer.
Blood tests can detect a wide range of conditions, including anemia, infections, high cholesterol, diabetes, liver and kidney function, hormonal imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, and more.
It depends on the test. Certain medications can interfere with test results. Always check with your doctor to see if you should stop any medications before your test.
If your results are abnormal, your doctor may order further tests or explain potential causes. In many cases, abnormal results require follow-up to understand the underlying issue.
Blood tests are generally safe. The most common side effect is slight bruising or swelling at the puncture site. Serious complications are very rare.
The frequency depends on your health, risk factors, and doctor’s recommendations. Routine tests like cholesterol or blood sugar may be done annually, while others may only be ordered when symptoms arise.