It's common for doctors to recommend blood tests after an infection Medical appointment Or routine examination.
Blood tests can identify vitamin or mineral deficiencies, Immune system Problems, or signs of infection, as well as whether organs such as the liver, heart or kidneys are working properly, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Fox News Digital spoke with one doctor about how to prepare for your next blood test.
Reasons for performing blood tests
Doctors may order blood tests for three main reasons: screening, diagnosis, or monitoring.
Blood tests can identify vitamin or mineral deficiencies, immune system problems, or signs of infection, as well as whether organs such as the liver, heart, or kidneys are working properly. (Istock)
Screenings are not related to symptoms and depend on age, risk factors or the last time you were checked, according to Printha Vasagar, MD, a family physician at Bayhealth Family Medicine in Dover, Delaware.
These tests can check things Such as cholesterolOr glucose, HIV, or hepatitis C.
Diagnostic tests are based on the symptoms you report to your doctor, Vassagar said.
“We carefully select blood tests to help judge or Exclude diseases “This may be the cause of those symptoms,” she told Fox News Digital.
Doctors may order blood tests for three main reasons: screening, diagnosis, or monitoring.
Blood tests may be done for monitoring if you already have a diagnosis and your doctor wants to make sure the treatments are working and check for any negative side effects, Vassagar said.
These tests will help your doctor make recommendations for changing medications or… Lifestyle habits.
What to expect from a blood draw
The technician will take you to a private area and confirm your name and date of birth, Vassagar said.
After you sit in a chair, the technician will place a narrow band around your upper arm to help access the veins more easily.
The doctor said that the technician will then clean the area and insert a small needle to collect vials of blood.
After you sit in a chair, the technician will place a narrow band around your upper arm to help access the veins more easily. (Istock)
“Some blood tests require different types of tests, which is why we sometimes need multiple vials of blood,” she said.
“When they get what they need, they will remove the needle and apply pressure to help the blood clot.”
The technician will mark each vial of blood with your identifying information and ask you to verify its authenticity, Vasagar added.
What to do before a blood test
If you have any Fear or anxiety Regarding getting blood tests, experts recommend discussing your concerns with your health care provider ahead of time.
“They see a lot of people who are worried about needles and blood, and they can help you calm down,” noted the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
“Some people like to schedule it first thing in the morning so that it's time for them to fast overnight and have less impact on their daily routine.”
“I usually prepare patients with what we expect the results to be and when they can expect to see me again or receive a phone call to discuss the results,” Vasagar said.
“I also tell patients that they will always receive calls about those results, even if they are normal, so if they don't hear anything, they should call.”
If you have any fear or anxiety about having a blood test, experts recommend discussing your concerns with your health care provider ahead of time. (Istock)
You can continue with your normal routine the day before the blood test. However, if your doctor tells you to fast, you should avoid it Eating or drinking Anything other than plain water for eight to 12 hours before a blood test, Vasagar said.
“Some people like to schedule it first thing in the morning so that their fasting time is overnight and has less impact on their daily routine,” she said.
Fasting is only required for specific blood tests, so it is important to check with your doctor.
Drinking plenty of water before your appointment will help prepare your veins so the technician can draw blood more easily. (Istock)
If fasting is not required, it's a good idea to eat and drink before a blood draw to prevent dizziness, according to Vassagar.
“If you start to feel dizzy, tell your technician so he can help you lie down and get you a snack and water,” the doctor said.
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Drinking Lots of water She added that before your appointment will help prepare your veins so the technician can draw blood more easily.
More smart planning tips
Blood will be drawn from your arm, so wear clothing that allows the technician to access your arm.
“Layering is a great way to stay warm while allowing for easy blood work,” Vasagar suggested.
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Feeling prepared can be a good way to do this Fight anxiety. Make a plan to get to your appointment on time and bring your photo ID and insurance card.
If you are fasting, you can bring snacks, water, or coffee to eat once you are finished, your doctor advises.
Experts agree that the blood test takes only a few minutes and is generally painless. (Istock)
If it makes you feel more comfortable, take a relative or friend with you, or listen to music with headphones to distract you from the needle, the same source suggested.
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Remember, the blood test takes only a few minutes and is generally painless, experts agree.
