Diagnosis is a vital part of bringing a person to the peak of health. When it comes to diagnosis, one of the first ones administered are blood tests. Blood tests are relatively simple, but they can offer solutions that can help diagnose and cure minor urgent care issues, and even the most complicated of diseases.

If your doctor orders a blood test, what does the test mean, and for what purpose will it be? Continue reading to find out.

1. Complete Blood Count

Red blood cells are responsible for carrying all the oxygen in the body. A low number of red blood cells will result in low oxygen levels, which can cause illnesses and ailments. The complete blood count (CBC) is the most basic of blood tests, yet it is the most important. It can check for infection, cancer, chronic disease, and several other conditions. CBCs can be done regularly to monitor the number of red blood cells in the body for any changes.

2. CO2 Test

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the most common waste products in the body. The carbon dioxide test is used to determine CO2 in the blood and is also used to monitor the activity of the lungs. A normal level of CO2 in the blood indicates sufficient oxygen intake and good breathing. This test can be used to identify conditions such as chronic lung disease, pulmonary disease, and pulmonary embolism.

3. Coagulation Panel

The coagulation panel is used to identify problems with the coagulation system, which refers to the blood’s ability to clot. A healthy person’s blood will clot when it is injured. A blood test can measure coagulation to determine the presence of abnormal blood cells, which can stop blood clotting. If this happens, it can cause abnormal bleeding, which can be dangerous.

4. Blood Enzyme Test

The blood enzyme test checks for the presence of certain enzymes in the blood. The presence of enzymes can indicate the presence of certain conditions. Blood enzymes are also used for screening for liver diseases, kidney diseases, and other diseases.

5. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

The comprehensive metabolic panel tests the acid-base balance of the blood. The purpose of this particular test is to give the doctor a wide range of information about your blood chemistry. Some of the comprehensive metabolic panel tests components include blood sugar, kidney and liver functions, blood cell counts, and blood pressure. Your doctor will use this information to make a diagnosis and treatment plan.

6. Ammonia Blood Test

Ammonia is a toxic product that is found in urine. An ammonia blood test can check the ammonia level in the blood. The ammonia test is mostly used to check the health of people who have liver or kidney problems. The test can also be used to detect the presence of an infection in the kidneys or the presence of a tumor in the liver.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, blood tests are used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. The main purpose of these tests is to test levels of certain substances found in the blood and to check for abnormalities. 

For blood test services in Troy, you can book an appointment at Family Medicine and Wellness. Dr. Al-Misky and her team can cater to your needs while offering a trustworthy, personalized patient-physician relationship. Give us a call today for more information.