It is common for doctors to recommend blood work after a Medical appointment Or a routine checkup.
Blood tests can identify vitamin or mineral deficiencies, Immune System Problems, or signs of infection, as well as organs such as the liver, heart or kidneys working properly, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Fox News Digital talked to a doctor about how to prepare for your next blood test.
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Reasons for blood tests
Doctors may order blood tests for three main reasons: screening, diagnosis or monitoring.
Blood tests can indicate signs of vitamin or mineral deficiencies, immune system problems, or infection, as well as whether organs such as the liver, heart, or kidneys are working properly. (iStock)
According to Brintha Vasagar, MD, a family physician with Bayhealth Family Medicine in Dover, Delaware, screening has nothing to do with symptoms and is based on age, risk factors or the last time you were checked.
These tests can check things. Like cholesterolglucose, HIV or hepatitis C.
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Tests for diagnosis are based on the symptoms you’ve reported to your doctor, Vasagar said.
“We carefully select blood work to rule in OR Eliminate diseases That can cause these symptoms,” he told Fox News Digital.
Doctors may order blood tests for three main reasons: screening, diagnosis or monitoring.
Monitoring blood tests can be done if you’ve already been diagnosed and your doctor wants to make sure the treatment is working and check for any adverse side effects, Vasagar said.
These tests will help your doctor make recommendations for changing medications. Lifestyle habits.
What to expect from a blood draw
A technician will take you to a private area and verify your name and date of birth, Vasagar shared.
After you’re seated in a chair, the technician will place a tight band around your upper arm to help make your veins more accessible.
Then, the technician will clean the area and insert a small needle to collect the blood vials, the doctor said.
After you’re seated in a chair, the technician will place a narrow band around your upper arm to help make your veins more accessible. (iStock)
“Some blood tests require different types of tests, which is why we sometimes need several vials of blood,” he said.
“When they have what they need, they’ll remove the needle and apply pressure to help your blood clot.”
Vasagar added that the technician will label each vial of blood with your identifying information and ask you to confirm that it is correct.
What to do before your blood test
If you have any. Fear or anxiety Regarding getting blood work done, experts recommend discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider ahead of time.
“They see a lot of people who are worried about needles and blood, and they can help calm you down,” notes the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
“Some people like to schedule first thing in the morning so that their fasting lasts overnight and has 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 call to discuss the results,” Vasagar said. There are,” Vasagar said.
“I also tell patients that they will always receive communication about these results, even if they are normal, so if they haven’t heard anything, they should call.”
If you have any fears or concerns about getting blood work done, experts recommend that you discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider ahead of time. (iStock)
You can go about your normal routine the day before the blood test. However, if your doctor has told you to fast, you should abstain. Eating or drinking Anything but plain water eight to 12 hours before your blood test, says Vasagar.
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“Some people like to schedule work first thing in the morning so that their fast lasts overnight and has less impact on their daily routine,” he said.
Fasting is only necessary for certain blood tests, so it’s important to check with your doctor.
Drinking plenty of water before your appointment will help prepare your veins so your technician can draw blood more easily. (iStock)
If fasting isn’t necessary, it’s a good idea to eat and drink before having your blood drawn to prevent light-headedness, according to Vasagar.
“If you start to feel dizzy, tell your technician so they can help you lie down and give you a snack and water,” the doctor said.
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to drink Plenty of water It also helps to prepare your veins before your appointment so your technician can draw blood more easily, she adds.
More smart planning tips
Your arm will bleed, so wear clothing that allows the technician to access your arm.
“It’s a great way to stay warm while allowing the blood to function more easily,” Vasagar suggests.
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Feeling prepared can be a good way to go. Cope with anxiety. Plan to arrive at the appointment on time and bring your photo ID and insurance card.
The doctor suggests that if you are fasting, you can have snacks, water or coffee as soon as you finish.
Experts agree that the blood test only takes a few minutes and is usually painless. (iStock)
If it makes you feel more relaxed, bring a relative or friend along, or listen to music with headphones to distract you from the needle, the same source suggested.
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Remember that getting a blood test only takes a few minutes and is usually painless, experts agree.