The Meaning of Your Blood Test Report

People should not be afraid to see their blood test report. Because it is your health involved, you should be strong enough to face and accept the results of your blood test. Here is a simple explanation of a blood test report.

A blood test usually covers complete blood count (CBC), blood glucose level, liver enzymes and electrolytes in the body. There is a normal value or range for each test. If there is an abnormal value, you may have a medical condition that needs prompt attention or care.

A CBC will test your platelet count, red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), hematocrit and hemoglobin. Platelets play a vital function in blood coagulation or clotting. If your platelet count is below the normal value, you may have an increased risk of bleeding. This means that if you cut yourself or are injured, bleeding may be difficult to stop. Some disorders could also lead to low platelet count. Some of these disorders include pernicious anemia, leukemia and systemic lupus erythematosus. If you are undergoing chemotherapy, you could also have a low platelet level. Your RBC count will be elevated if you have significant fluid loss in the body. A very high WBC concentration could also mean that you have an infection. Meanwhile, a high WBC level may indicate infection.

Blood glucose is monitored to determine if you have diabetes. High level of blood sugar indicates diabetes. If you have low blood glucose level, you may be suffering from hypoglycemia. You could experience fainting, weakness, dizziness and you may even collapse. Some of liver enzymes being tested in a blood test include alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, albumin and bilirubin. Any abnormal value in these enzymes could indicate a problem in your liver function.

Electrolytes that are tested include sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium and bicarbonate. Sodium is critical in maintaining water balance in the body. Some conditions could lead to low sodium level. Such conditions include the following: if you are taking diuretics; having diarrhea; or have a kidney disorder. An elevated potassium level could indicate a problem in the kidney.