Understanding Your Blood Test Results
By Health Corner, IndoUs Tribune
What’s the difference between HDL and LDL cholesterol (and which one is good)? What are triglycerides? Why is it important to know how many white or red blood cells you have? Your blood holds a wealth of information about your health. It can reveal your cholesterol levels, whether you’re diabetic, anemic, or fighting an infection. Blood tests provide clues about the functioning of your liver, heart, and thyroid.
Blood tests are often part of routine check-ups, as doctors analyze how your body is functioning. However, unless you’re a medical professional, understanding the results can be challenging.
When you visit your primary care physician for a check-up, your doctor may perform a blood draw to check your cholesterol, blood count (red and white blood cells and platelets), and a basic metabolic or chemistry panel.
Lipid Panel = Cholesterol
Your doctor will order a lipid panel to assess your cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is divided into “good” (HDL) and “bad” (LDL). LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, can build up in your arteries, slowing blood flow and potentially leading to heart attack or stroke. High cholesterol typically has no symptoms, making the blood test crucial.
Triglycerides are a type of fat in your blood different from cholesterol. High triglycerides can contribute to the hardening of arteries, similar to high LDL cholesterol. You want your HDL cholesterol to be higher than 45 milligrams (mg) per deciliter (dL) of blood. LDL should be less than 130 mg/dL. Triglycerides should be under 150 mg/dL, and your total cholesterol should not exceed 200 mg/dL. If you’re at average risk for heart disease, it’s recommended to check your cholesterol every five years starting at age 18.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
This routine test evaluates your general health and can detect a range of diseases. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms like fatigue or bruising. The CBC measures your levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. White blood cells fight infection, so higher levels might indicate an infection. Abnormal red blood cell counts could indicate various diseases. Platelets help your blood clot, and abnormal levels can also signify disease.
Basic vs. Complete/Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
The basic metabolic panel tests your blood glucose (sugar), kidney function, and levels of calcium, sodium, and potassium. The complete metabolic panel includes these tests plus liver function tests. These panels might be part of a routine check-up or ordered to check for specific diseases.
Thyroid Function
This test measures the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. High TSH levels may indicate hypothyroidism, while low levels may suggest hyperthyroidism. Both conditions come with various symptoms, and this test can help rule out other diseases.
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)
This test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. It is a crucial test for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes. An HbA1c level of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes, while a level between 5.7% and 6.4% suggests prediabetes. Managing your HbA1c levels can help prevent complications associated with diabetes.
Vitamin and Mineral Levels
Blood tests can also check for deficiencies or excesses in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, and magnesium. Deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to a range of health issues, including fatigue, weakness, and bone health problems. Addressing these deficiencies through diet or supplements can significantly improve your overall health.
Inflammatory Markers
Tests such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) measure inflammation in the body. Elevated levels of these markers can indicate chronic inflammation, which is associated with various conditions like heart disease, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases.
Talk to your primary care doctor at your next check-up about which blood tests might be right for you. Understanding your blood test results can provide valuable insights into your health and help you take proactive steps towards maintaining or improving it.
For more information and tips on managing diabetes, consult your healthcare provider and stay tuned to Health Corner, IndoUs Tribune.
