It’s common for doctors to recommend a blood draw after a medical appointment or routine check-up.
Blood tests can identify vitamin or mineral deficiencies. Immune system problems or signs of infection The same is true for organs such as the liver, heart, or kidneys to function properly. According to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
Fox News Digital spoke with doctors about how to prepare for their next blood test.
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Reason for blood test
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 This includes looking at whether organs such as the liver, heart, or kidneys are functioning properly. (Istock)
Brintha Vasagar, MD, a family physician at Bayhealth Family Medicine in Dover, Delaware, says screening is not related to symptoms. And it depends on your age, risk factors or the last time you were tested.
These tests can screen for things like cholesterol, glucose, HIV, or hepatitis C.
Studies have found that a woman’s heart disease risk can be predicted up to 30 years in advance with just one blood test.
Diagnostic testing will be based on the symptoms you’ve reported to your doctor, Vasagar says.
“We choose our blood tests carefully. to help control or eliminate diseases that may cause those symptoms,” she told Fox News Digital.
Doctors may order blood tests for three main reasons: screening, diagnosis, or monitoring.
Follow-up blood tests can be done if you have been diagnosed. And your doctor wants to make sure the treatment is working. and to check for any negative side effects. Vasagar said.
These tests will help your doctor make recommendations for changing medications or lifestyle habits.
What to expect from a blood draw
A technician will take you to a private area and confirm your name and date of birth, Vasakar recalled.
After making you sit on the chair The technician will wrap a compression band around your upper arm to help make your veins easier to access.
Next, the technician will clean the area and insert a small needle. To collect a vial of blood, the doctor said.
After making you sit on the chair The technician will wrap a compression band around your upper arm to help make your veins easier to access. (Istock)
“Some blood tests require several types of testing. Because of this, we sometimes need multiple vials of blood,” she said.
“When they get what they want, They will remove the needle and apply pressure to help your blood clot.”
The technician will label each vial of blood with your identifying information. and ask you to check that it is correct Vasagar added.
Things to do before a blood test
If you have fear or anxiety about blood tests Experts recommend discussing your concerns with your health care provider in advance.
“They saw a lot of people worried about needles and blood. And they can help you calm down,” says the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
“Some people like to schedule it first thing in the morning so that the fasting occurs overnight and is less disruptive to their daily routine.”
“I always prepare patients based on what we expect the outcome to be. And when will they meet with me again or get a call to discuss the results,” Vasakar said.
“I also tell patients that they will always receive communication about those results. Although this is normal So if they don’t hear anything They should call.”
If you have fear or anxiety about blood tests Experts recommend discussing your concerns with your health care provider in advance. (Istock)
You can continue with your normal activities the day before the blood test. However, if your doctor asks you to fast, You should avoid eating or drinking anything other than water for 8 to 12 hours before the blood test. Vasagar said.
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“Some people like to schedule things first thing in the morning. so that the fasting occurs overnight And it has less impact on their daily routine,” she said.
Fasting is only required for specific blood tests. Therefore, it is worth checking with your doctor.
Drinking plenty of fluids before your appointment will help prepare the vein to make it easier for the technician to draw blood. (Istock)
If there is no need to fast It’s a good idea to eat and drink before having your blood drawn to prevent dizziness, according to Vasagar.
“If you start to feel dizzy, Tell your technician. So they can help you lie down and buy you some snacks and water,” the doctor said.
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Drinking plenty of fluids before your appointment will help prepare your vein to make it easier for your technician to draw blood.
More Smart Planning Tips
Blood will be drawn from your arm. Therefore, dress in such a way that the technician can reach your arm.
“Layering is a great way to keep your body warm while also helping your blood flow easily,” Vasakar advises.
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Feeling prepared can be a great way to combat anxiety. Plan to arrive at your appointment on time and bring your photo ID and insurance card.
If fasting, you can bring snacks, water, or coffee with you as soon as you finish eating, doctors recommend.
Experts agree that the blood test only takes a few minutes. It’s generally painless. (Istock)
If it makes you feel more comfortable Bring relatives or friends with you. Or listen to music with headphones to distract yourself. The same news source recommends
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Remember that the blood test only takes a few minutes and is generally painless. Experts agree.
