6 Vital Blood Tests to Determine Your Health & Well-Being

Blood tests are a key method of assessing the health of the body as a whole and identifying underlying issues before they result in consequences. These blood tests are crucial for determining how physical health has changed over time and how they reflect aging. For adults, routine blood tests are crucial, while in many cases, they are performed before intricate medical operations.

Your doctor can use blood tests to determine how well your body’s organs are functioning. Your thyroid, liver, or kidneys are a few examples of organs whose issues might be detected in a blood test. So, getting blood tests is a perfect way to learn about any complications that may arise and become a source of severe illness.

What is a Blood Test & why do I Need it?

A blood test is a regular method to keep track of your overall well-being. If you are getting your blood tests at routine intervals, you can check your health well and determine the changes inside the body that are making you vulnerable to many viruses, ailments, or diseases.

A blood test can determine if a person is at risk of getting heart disease even if they do not already have the ailment. Moreover, with reports and doctor’s prescriptions and treatment, you can empower yourself with the right changes in terms of diet and lifestyle and still get to live as healthily.

At a routine interval, some important blood tests should be taken without delay. These are some of the blood tests that help you develop a profound understanding of your general physical health. However, there are some conditions in which getting the blood test becomes exponentially mandatory;

  • If you are experiencing complications of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, or other chronic illnesses.
  • The next is if you are obese and have a sedentary lifestyle and what to watch out for complications from an unhealthy lifestyle.
  • In order to keep a closer eye on your health, you plan to monitor key factors through the lab results.

 

6 Most Essential Blood Tests to Get for Understanding Your Health

Here are the 6 most essential blood tests to get today to develop an understanding of your health and well-being.

1. C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test
A CRP test or c-reaction protein test is a test performed to analyze or measure the levels of CRP in your blood sample. When your body is dealing with inflammation, the liver creates and releases a substance named c-reactive protein to deal with inflammation.

Getting a c-reaction protein (CRP) test becomes significant as it helps your doctor analyze the CRP levels your body is producing. Through this test, if the CRP levels are higher, it means you have a serious health condition causing inflammation.

When your body is producing inflammation, it means that your body is protecting the tissues and helping them heal from diseases, infections, or injuries. Now, it is pivotal to understand that inflammation can be temporary or acute. If inflammation is acute or temporary, it is usually helpful, for example, if your skin gets cut and turns red, swells, and hurts for a couple of days. This is a sign of inflammation that is sudden and temporary.

However, if the inflammation lasts longer than you see, it damages your healthy tissues. In medical terminology, it is often understood as a long-term inflammation that generally happens from smoking or environmental chemicals.

So, the CRP test is used to evaluate acute or chronic conditions that may include infections from viruses or bacteria, inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune disorders, lung diseases, ulcerative colitis, intestine disorder, etc.

2. Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test
A complete blood count (CBC) test is a common blood test done to evaluate overall health while also helping detect several disorders such as leukemia, anemia, or other infections. A complete blood count (CBC) test determines if there are any abnormal increases or decreases in your blood cell counts.

While the values heavily depend on age and gender, the shared reports will also help you understand the optimal value per your age and gender. When you take a CBC test, it measures the changes in your blood cell levels and helps your doctor or physician understand some of the health disorders. This test measures three types of blood cells, including;

  • Red Blood Cells

Your body’s red blood cells transport oxygen and eliminate carbon dioxide. Two elements of your red blood cells are measured by a complete blood count, i.e., hemoglobin which is the oxygen that is carrying out protein, and the other is hematocrit which is the percentage of red blood cells in your blood.

Through the CBC test, if your report shows that you have low blood cells, it means that you are at elevated risk of anemia, as this condition occurs through iron deficiency.

  • White Blood Cells

Your body uses white blood cells to combat infections. A CBC counts and classifies the various white blood cells in your body. Any unusual changes in the quantity or variety of white blood cells might be an indication of infections leading to cancer or high chances of inflammation.

  • Platelets

The next element that comes under evaluation is the platelets. Platelets in your blood help your blood clot and aid during injury by controlling bleeding. When your blood stops coming out of the injury, it is because of the working of platelets. So, if platelet levels are low, you are at risk of excessive bleeding, which can eventually pose a great threat to your well-being.

3. Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) Test
Another critically important blood test is the hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) test. It is also a blood test that is performed to measure the blood sugar levels for over the last 2 or 3 months. Often, people understand this test as a blood sugar test done to analyze the glucose levels in your blood.

Where does the glucose come from? It comes from the food and drinks we consume. Food becomes a source of energy for us; our blood cells use glucose for energy. When we consume food or drink, insulin helps glucose reach our blood cells.

However, if you have diabetes, your insulin levels are significantly low. Hence the glucose consumed will not be consumed well. And this is where the glucose enters your blood cells and increases the blood sugar levels. Upon entering our cells, this unused glucose sticks to hemoglobin and increases blood sugar levels.

Taking the hemoglobin A1C test basically analyzes the percentage of your red blood cells that already and excessively have sugar-coated hemoglobin. Hence when high levels of A1C indicate that the chances are high for diabetes which will eventually lead to severe health problems, including kidney diseases, heart disease, and nerve damage.

4. Liver Function Test
Blood tests, called liver function tests, are used to monitor and assist in identifying liver damage or illness. The tests check the amounts of specific proteins and enzymes in your blood.

This liver function test measures how well and properly the liver is performing. It also analyzes the normal functions of producing protein and enzymes in the liver and clearing bilirubin, a blood waste product. Moreover, if you have a disease that you have been diagnosed with, liver function test also helps the doctor understand the progression of the existing disease. Your doctor or physician may also ask you to take a liver function test upon the chances of the following situations;

  • To analyze and check any damage that occurs from liver function. This may include hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
  • It also helps in monitoring the adverse effects caused because of consuming some of the medicines.
  • A liver function test can also be performed if you already have liver disease. It helps monitor the condition and helps you understand how well your treatment is working for you.
  • If you have a family history of a liver issue or are exhibiting symptoms of one, such as fatty liver disease,

Here are the liver function test that we perform at Alpha Medical Laboratory;

  • Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) Test

An enzyme, aspartate aminotransferase, is found in various parts of our body. These parts may include the brain, pancreas, heart, muscles, and liver. Upon liver damage, AST is released into the bloodstream. The presence of high AST levels will indicate the improper functioning of the liver or even some muscles.

  • Alanine Transaminase (ALT) Test

Your body uses an enzyme called alanine transaminase (ALT) to break down protein. ALT can be released into the blood if the liver is damaged or not working properly. Levels of ALT increase as a result. On this test, a higher result than is expected may indicate liver damage.

  • Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) Test

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is also an enzyme found in our bones, bile ducts, and liver. When you are recommended to get an alkaline phosphatase test, it is done in combination with many different tests to evaluate the bile duct system of your liver.

  • Albumin Test

The primary protein produced by your liver is albumin. It carries out a variety of vital body processes. When you take an albumin test, it measures the performance of your liver in making particular and required proteins.

  • Bilirubin Test

Red blood cell breakdown produces bilirubin as a waste product, and the liver typically processes it. Before being eliminated by your stools, it first goes through the liver. When your liver is damaged, it cannot process bilirubin.

5. Lipid Profile Test

Healthcare professionals frequently utilize a lipid panel to evaluate and screen for your risk of cardiovascular disease. Three tests of your cholesterol levels and measurement of your triglycerides are included in the panel. Through a lipid profile test, your doctor analyzes the measurement of fat molecules in your blood called lipids.

When you take a lipid profile test, it checks for high levels of lipids in your blood. Through a lipid profile test, your reports present the following factors;

  • It checks and presents information regarding high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, termed good cholesterol, because it helps remove low-density lipoprotein cholesterol from the blood.
  • Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is the bad cholesterol that builds up on the walls of your arteries and increases the chances of stroke, heart attack, etc.
  • The next thing that a lipid profile test analyzes is triglycerides, and the small molecules are nothing but the broken-down fat from the food we eat. If your body has high levels of triglycerides, the risks of cardiovascular diseases are elevated.

Taking a lipid profile test becomes paramount, considering if you have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease, are obese, or have an inactive lifestyle that also includes smoking and drinking.

6.  Beta (hCG) Test

Beta HCG test helps in measuring the levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in your blood. HCG hormone is produced during pregnancy. In this process, the cells in the developing placenta make HCG which can be detected in a blood sample after 11 days of conception. The levels of HCG present in the blood continue to double every 48 to 72 hours. However, the peak of HCG levels is reached in the 8 to 11 weeks of conception. The performance of the beta HCG test is done for some reasons, including;

  • The first is to confirm pregnancy.
  • It is also done to screen for Down syndrome.
  • Doctors also recommend taking a beta HCG test to determine the approximate age of the fetus.
  • It also helps in understanding the potential chances of miscarriage.
  • If the pregnancy is abnormal, a beta HCG test also helps in clearing the doubt.

Moreover, it is also important to note that higher levels of HCG in the blood can be life-threatening. It can be a possible danger for cancer of the uterus, lung cancer, breast cancer and even ovarian cancer.

The Final Takeaway

It is evident that various blood testing choices provide a crucial and precise picture of what you require to attain optimum balance. Blood test results assist medical professionals in pinpointing what’s keeping a person from achieving maximum health. As a result, therapy is more customized, secure, and cost- and productive. So, get your blood tests today, and don’t compromise your health.

 

How to Take Sickle Cell Anemia Test

Sickle cell disease is one of the inherited disorders. It is often called a red blood cell (RCB) disorder and is named as sickle because of its C-shaped farming tool. The diseases of sickle cell occur when they become hard and sticky. Moreover, it also causes a shortage and decrease in red blood cells and hence become essential to get a blood test and start treatment if the result comes in positive.

The most occurrence of sickle cell anemia happens in infants aged four months. However, children and adults can also become victims of sickle cell anemia. There are solid instances where people have inherited the sickle cell gene without showing prior signs of this disease.

Symptoms of Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease becomes serious if left untreated. Therefore, it is pivotal to understand the signs or symptoms beforehand and not let them take over you. Having said this, here are some of the symptoms of sickle cell disease that you should notice and get a blood test immediately;

  • Fatigue often comes with anemia.
  • Shortness of breath is also an alarming sign.
  • Paleness or yellowing of eyes and skin.
  • Blocked blood flow which leads to timely episodes of pain.
  • Delayed growth
  • Vision impairment
  • Frequent infections and illnesses
  • Swollen hands or feet
  • Hand-foot syndrome
  • Extreme paint in the back, chest, and body joints
  • Abdominal swelling also occurs

Getting a sickle cell anemia test becomes important if one experiences these symptoms. Hence, taking a sickle cell anemia test through a blood test from a reputed lab facility will provide you with accurate results and immediate consultation for your treatment.  

Elevated Chances of Complications of Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell anemia can lead to a number of issues, especially if the right care is not obtained. Here are some of the complications you should know so you can take timely measures, treatments, and medications for your timely recovery and well-being.

  • The first to know about is the hand-foot syndrome which results severely in the swelling of feet and hands. If this happens in your newborn baby, it is probably the first sign of a harmful disorder.
  • The next complication to know about is the neurological problem that sickle cell disease leads to. In this case, brain blockage happens in patients having sickle cell disease. Besides, it can also lead to strokes and seizures and may become a source of the leading patient coma.
  • Vision loss is another complication that can happen because of SCD. Due to sickle cell occurring, the eye’s tiny vessels are trapped, leading to complete or partial vision loss.
  • Blood blockage can also happen in the splenectomy blood vessels, and this leads to a severe loss of function in the organs. Often the removal of the spleen blood vessel happens through surgical removal.
  • Another complication that can become serious is the extreme level of anemia, which leads to fatigue, shortness of breath, and other complications associated with anemia. In many cases, a shortage of red blood cells also happens.

Who Requires a Sickle Cell Test?

Infants or newborns are regularly tested for sickle cell disease as they are at high risk. Doctors recommend this test in the early phases because it helps in early detection and directs to make necessary changes and treatment suggestions if the results come constructive. Children and infants are vulnerable to diseases and infections, so it is another reason to get tested for sickle cell disease within the early days of birth.

On the other hand, people who haven’t been diagnosed or tested for SCD in their childhood or infancy should also take a sickle cell test to learn more about the disease. Another point to consider is children who haven’t been tested in their childhood and those who have developed the symptoms mentioned before.

Sickle Cell Test Results

At Alpha Medical Laboratory, after taking your blood sample, our lab technicians will examine your blood sample. Here they will look for an abnormal form of hemoglobin known as hemoglobin S.

Where the regular form of hemoglobin is a protein carried by the red blood cells, the role of this hemoglobin is to drive oxygen into the other organs and throughout the body by picking it from the lungs. The blueprint of your hemoglobin remains in the DNA, which is considered an important material that is included in making up your genes. If a gene is altered or mutated, hemoglobin’s behavior changes. This mutated hemoglobin also forms the sickle-shaped, hence becoming and emerging as sickle cell disease.

Furthermore, a sickle cell test checks for hemoglobin S, which causes SCD. A negative test result is typical, and your hemoglobin is normal, and a positive test result might indicate SCD.

If the sickle cell test results are positive, your doctor may ask you to take a hemoglobin electrophoresis test. The results of both these tests will help in determining the overall condition.

The Final Takeaway!

Some treatments are available for it, such as through medication that includes crizanlizumab, hydroxyurea, and other medicines that the DHA approves. Blood transfusion is another important element for recovering from sickle cell disease, and another daunting way is to get a bone marrow transplant which is affected by sickle cell anemia.

Either way, before finalizing anything, it is important to take a sickle cell anemia blood test that helps you verify your condition and also helps in taking timely and recoverable measures.

 

How to Get Yourself Tested for HIV

how to get tested for HIV

HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus, is an infection that is one of the leading sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The name HIV instantly strikes fear in any person’s heart and mind. Naturally, the cause of this terrifying experience is because of the stigma attached to the term sexually transmitted diseases or infections.

Over the years, fear has been dispelled into our society. And it also distances people from getting the right STD testing done at the right moment that will help them take the right measures against it.

HIV testing or screening is one way to find out about the infection and cure it with the medication and treatments that doctors or general physicians recommend. For this, several types of tests have been administered to the person’s blood to detect the presence of human immunodeficiency virus presence in the body. Generally, the development of antibodies in a person’s body takes time. This is where getting the right STD testing for HIV detection helps you identify the presence in your body so that you can take preventive measures and ensure a timely treatment efficiently.

Death doesn’t occur because of HIV alone, and the patient needs to maintain a proper plan that their doctor recommends so that they can maintain their proper health and well-being without a doubt. However, early diagnosis of HIV is critical as it helps you take timely treatments.

Types of HIV Testing

Early diagnosis of HIV is vital as it allows you to take the right measures at the right time. It is also important to note that the results of the HIV testing vary depending on the test you take. Moreover, getting a positive result doesn’t happen soon after exposure; it takes time. HIV testing is recommended to be taken in the mentioned categories;

Antibody Tests: Antibodies reacting to HIV are found with this sort of test. When an infection is present, the immune system makes antibodies, and blood or oral fluid samples are taken. Within 23 to 90 days following exposure, testing using antibodies can diagnose HIV infection.

Antigen Tests: In an antigen/antibody test, the antigen known as p24 is screened for in addition to the antibody. When HIV has been ingested, this antigen is generated. The vein is used to collect blood samples for this test, and HIV infection is discovered 18 to 45 days after exposure.

Nucleic Acid Tests (NAT): Nucleic acid test checks for HIV 10 to 33 days after infection. As opposed to antibodies to the virus, they look for evidence of the virus itself. This might also be referred to as an HIV RNA or viral load test. Blood drawn from a vein is used. If you don’t have symptoms and the doctor doesn’t think you have a recent infection, you generally won’t have this pricey test. Its most frequently used to monitor how patients who already have HIV react to the medication.

Standard HIV Blood Test: The standard HIV blood test is done by Alpha Medical Lab’s trained nurses by taking blood from your vein. This is a test that is done to determine the antibodies around 23 to 90 days after infection. The antibodies checked in this test are the proteins that your immune system makes when a person has been exposed to the virus.

Benefits of Getting Yourself Tested for HIV

Whether you feel the symptoms or yourself at higher risk, getting yourself tested for HIV is important at least once. Moreover, if you have unprotected sex, are breastfeeding, are involved in blood transfusion, and also share injecting devices, getting an HIV test becomes a requisite. In addition to this, there are some fruitful reasons why you should take an HIV test;

  • Getting yourself tested for human immunodeficiency virus reduces HIV-associated morbidity and mortality.
  • You will eventually not become a reason for the transmission of this disease to others.
  • You never know if you are infected with this virus, that later becomes dangerous.
  • If you feel exposed to a high-risk setting of the HIV virus, early detection will let you make wise decisions before it is too late.
  • You can also learn whether your partner is at a potential risk of HIV transferring to you.
  • If they come positive, the test results will let you start treatment after diagnosis sooner so that you remain healthy for the years to come.
  • It may also reduce the severity and risk of serious non-AIDS-related diseases and life-threatening illnesses.
  • Another benefit is that you can start life-saving treatment immediately, and this leads to a better outcome and excellent care.
  • It also reduces the chance of stopping the transmission of HIV into babies. Thus the baby born is HIV-free.
  • Getting HIV tested from the Alpha Medical Laboratory in Dubai ensures that your test details and identity remain confidential and privacy-protected. So that you can have peace of mind while ensuring healthier life.

Getting the HIV Test Results

The part of getting an HIV test is terrifying for patients, from sample collection to the lab testing process and finally getting the test results. You can also opt for at home sample collection, where a team will adhere to your confidentiality and privacy while remaining professional for sample collection.

When determining whether to get tested for HIV, the privacy of the procedure and the results is frequently a crucial consideration. The controversies surrounding the illness continue to influence how people see HIV.

Nevertheless, this requirement was acknowledged by medical facilities and healthcare providers. Therefore, individuals can choose between confidential testing and anonymous testing.

The Final Words

Getting an HIV test is essential, but a lot of people refrain from taking it, considering the stigma attached to it in society. This is how tens of thousands of people compromise their health and well-being. However, when you book an appointment with Alpha Medical Laboratory in Dubai, we ensure that your test process, including sample collection, testing, and report sharing, remains 100% confidential and private for your utmost satisfaction. This is how you can stay updated on your health and ensure your well-being.

Everything to Know Diabetes Effect on Wound Healing

Wound healing in diabetic patient

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease often characterized by high blood sugar. The patient who is diabetes positive has organs functioning diversely. This often leads to recovering slowly from burns, cuts, and other minor or severe injuries. Generally, people recover quickly from injuries, burns, cuts, etc., but the case with diabetes patients is not the same.

People with diabetes have a slower healing capacity, and there are some reasons for this slower recovery. The reason for a slower recovery is high glucose levels in their blood, which is triggered by diabetes, and it also affects and slows down their blood circulation. Another reason is the inability of white blood cells in the patient’s body that wouldn’t help them fight off infections and close up the wounds. Moreover, diabetic neuropathy also causes numbness in the affected areas.

This is where getting proper care and treatment for a diabetic patient becomes mandatory because leaving them unattended could lead to leg amputation. So, early detection is important, which you can get through a lab test at home service in Dubai. This will help you understand your condition and take better measures for preventing injuries and taking the right measures if an injury occurs.

How Does Diabetes Affect Wound Healing?

It is mentioned that people suffering from diabetes mellitus are often found with a slow wound-healing process. This diagnosis of diabetes mellitus leads to leg amputation. Moreover, it also impedes high blood sugar, which stops proper healing while affecting the blood flow in the usual way. In addition to this, nerve functioning and improper immune responses also occur through this.

When talking about normal healing, the platelets in the blood prevent the body from further bleeding by forming a clot as they act as a plug to stop the blood from gushing out of the tissues. This is how the white blood cells respond to prevent infections. However, the red blood cells also provide enough oxygen to promote collagen building which becomes the foundation for the new tissues.

On the other hand, the case is entirely different when we talk about recovery in diabetes patients. Diabetes affects the production of insulin, the hormone that converts sugar into energy, as well as the body’s capacity to use insulin. High blood sugar levels prevent blood cells from functioning normally throughout the healing process. This leads to the additional consequences where diabetes affects the healing process making it slower than usual and eventually leading to diabetic foot ulcers. However, the game doesn’t stop at this, as there as more insights that you must learn about before moving forward;

  • Slow Blood Circulation: Blood circulation is slower in people with diabetes. It is because the cells responsible for circulating the blood have remained slower functioning. This slower blood circulation tends to be a deteriorating reason in the feet, legs, and ankles that are distant from the heart, eventually affecting the healing process.
  • Impaired Immune Response: People with diabetes have poor tissue regeneration, which is only worsened by the wound’s fast enlargement. This is due to the fact that the white blood cells in the damaged region travel slowly, which raises the possibility of infection. Red blood cells cannot assist in healing as a result, and the tissue damage worsens.
  • Diabetic Neuropathy: A few researches have been conducted on vascular problems in diabetic patients. This is associated explicitly with neuropathy and retinopathy, and it causes adverse effects used to gauge the severity of the diseases. Diabetic neuropathy is linked to delayed wound healing in diabetes. Moreover, diabetic neuropathy also adds to the numbness that attacks the feet and legs of the patients. It additionally leads to bruising, injuries, cuts, and burns as often the patient is completely unaware of the situation, and the problem arises with no feeling and getting immediate treatment. So, the patient experiences food and leg ulcers.

Tips to Care for Diabetic Wounds

Treating wounds when you are diabetic positive becomes an important step. However, there are key takeaways that you must be mindful of as they will help you take the right measures to prevent the diabetic wound from turning into an infectious disease. Here are a few tips;

  • For diabetic patients, it is important that they should develop a habit of regularly checking their legs and feet for wounds.
  • Another tip is to regularly wash your legs, ankles, and feet with warm water, and this is another measure of utmost care for your wounds.
  • Try reducing the undue pressure on the affected area. For example, wearing loose clothes and shoes is a way to recover.
  • If you don’t wish to visit a doctor’s clinic or a hospital facility, book a blood test for diabetic detection and take timely measures for your well-being.
  • Consulting your doctors is another requisite to follow without delay.

Complications Diabetic Wounds That Go Untreated

Ignoring diabetic wounds will result in further health issues that might be fatal or result in physical impairments. Diabetes patients who have slow-healing injuries are more vulnerable to gangrene and infections. The worst and only option if these disorders are left untreated is amputation, in which the diseased lower limb portion is surgically removed. Here are some of the complications to be mindful about;
  • If diabetic patients leave wounds untreated, it increases the risks of infections.
  • A patient might experience considerable tissue damage.
  • The chances of abscesses and cellulitis increase.
  • The infections, upon getting severe, could also penetrate the muscle and bones, leading to tendonitis and osteomyelitis.
  • The next is the risk of gangrene, another problem that becomes serious without proper treatment.
  • In gangrene, blood circulation is affected because the tissue area is completely ruined in functioning.
  • With gangrene affecting the wound at large, the smell from the wound is sometimes unbearable.

The Final Words

Already a complex metabolic condition impacting the activities of several organs, diabetes. Early identification is even more critical given its painful consequences on your skin, which might result in amputation if untreated promptly.

You may shield yourself from these adverse effects by getting a blood test for diabetes early on and searching out quick management and treatment options. And if you make a few crucial lifestyle adjustments, you can still be in charge of your health.

6 Reasons To Take A Blood Test At Home In Dubai

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of people going to the lab for blood draws and blood tests has decreased. As a result, more and more patients are choosing to have their blood samples collected at home. Many patients are stalling routine tests and medical care to minimize the exposure. Another reason for this decline is less preference that it is getting from people because of the convenience one gets from at home sample collection service. Many physically existing labs have reported a great decline in appointments and blood test conduction.

The reason for this decline is clear and understandable. During Covid-19, where it was considered a safe and secure measure, it has become convenient and comfortable.

Since every sector is implementing new practices by harnessing the power of technology and digitization, home healthcare emerges and soon becomes an unstoppable wave. And with several home healthcare services becoming popular, getting lab test services at home becomes equally important. From being easy, comfortable, convenient, and hassle-free, getting a blood test at home is a valuable method to get the proper insight into your body’s functioning. It shows and informs a patient about any risk their body is in and helps decide what needs to be done to curb the potential diseases.

Why Should I Take a Blood Test?

Getting a blood test is done for multiple reasons. Some blood tests can help your doctor or physician determine how different organs in your body are working. This means that with a blood test, you can get perfect insights into the malfunctioning organs. Here are some to know;o

  • A blood test helps in gauging your state of health.
  • It lets you know about any infection in your body.
  • It also informs you about your liver, kidneys, and thyroid functioning and well-being.
  • It also helps in detecting the markers of diseases and health conditions, including diabetes, HIV, anemia, cancer, and coronary heart disease.
  • By getting a blood test, you can also get yourself screened for some genetic conditions.
  • It helps in assessing how well your blood is clotting.
  • Patients get to know about basic and comprehensive metabolic panels.

6 Reasons Why You Should Take Blood Tests at Home

The blood sample collection at home and the testing process have emerged as the new normal. Still, if you need clarification as to finalize why you should take a blood test at home service, here are some points to consider that would change your view and decide what’s better and more convenient.

1.  Accessibility is Unparalleled

Now with the enabled facility of getting a blood test at home, a patient receives unparalleled and uncompromised accessibility. Patients far from centers or metro facilities can easily get a professional team comprising of registered nurses who will reach your home or hotel room to draw sample and take it to our state-of-the-art laboratory.

If you’re home, caught up with important tasks at work, or don’t want to bear the hassle of traveling to the lab, you can book our service and get a trained, licensed team to collect a sample in 30 to 45mins.

2. Guaranteed Comforting Experience

When you take a blood test at home, it is important to know that the sample collection process is a highly satisfying and comforting experience. When you stay at home, you can get the comfort of your home without having to travel, wait in long queues, and expose yourself to other people. The blood test at home by Alpha Medical Laboratory ensures that the process is stress-free.

3. Painless & Convenient

Many people get weak knees at the sight of needles. If this is the case with you or even if you are short on time, getting a blood test service right in the comfort of your home remains the most convenient solution. You can eliminate the need to set an appointment with your physician or visit the laboratory.

With the blood test at home service, you can get the test whenever you want in the comfort of your home. The home nursing team of AML uses state-of-the-art technology and modern practices to collect samples while ensuring 100% convenience.

4. Clear Explanation of Test Results

When you take a blood test at home or hotel room from Alpha Medical Laboratory, we ensure to collect a sample in the comfort of your home and submit the results with a clear explanation. Where clients need a proper explanation of their test results from medical labs and facilities, we strive to detail all information and provide clear explanations to patients using our medical knowledge, experience, and skills.

You can take the results to your doctor and, without going, can understand whether your markers fall within the reference range. For each marker, we provide a comprehensive explanation that is easily understandable.

5. Actionable Recommendations

We are somewhat aware of the general guidelines and essential factors to consider. But when it comes to properly understanding the blood test report with critical areas and getting actionable recommendations, it is done by our blood test at home service. If you have increased cholesterol and CRP levels, our medical professionals will make actionable and necessary recommendations that help you bring changes for living healthy. This is how you can bring alterations in your diet and nutrition and implement a healthy lifestyle for optimal health and well-being.

6. Safety is Ensured

When you take a blood test at home service, you are a step ahead in ensuring your safety. An expert team of trained medical professionals and registered nurses will draw blood and collect a sample. The entire process confirms that your health’s safety is our top priority. The methods we use, the technology we integrate, and the approach we take are result-proven and approved by the Dubai Health Authority. This is how you eliminate the chance of exposing yourself to other patients and healthcare workers.

The Final Words

We have seen an incredible elevation in different fields and industries; thus, the revolutionizing world introduced another advanced medium – home healthcare. And getting blood tests at home is convenient, accessible, and offers unparalleled comfort. You can take a blood test at home today by calling us to book, and our certified and trained team will reach your location in 30 to 45mins for sample collection by adhering to and following the standards set by the Dubai Health Authority and the Ministry of Health and Prevention.

blood tests at AML

10 Important Blood Tests By Alpha Medical Laboratory

blood test at home

Blood testing is an excellent way to get perfect information and track your health and well-being. If you have a good habit of getting tested at routine intervals, you will be able to track the changes in your body. It will also empower you with the right health and diet changes or to start medication if needed.

It is pivotal to note that some blood tests help your doctors or physicians understand the growth and stable position of your organs and their functionality. Hence, with a blood test performed, if any organ is on the brink of malfunctioning, the test will show you the results. The blood test report you get can be shared with your doctor, who will undermine the markers of diseases and other health conditions. Some markers of diseases show diabetes, cancer, anemia, HIV, and coronary heart disease.

There are many blood tests available for analyzing your cholesterol levels as well as blood counts. Some tests take time, while others give results quickly after the performance of the test. While on the other hand, some tests take days and weeks to obtain results.

Essential Things to Know About STDs

Here are some of the important blood tests that you should know about;

1. Complete Blood Count Test

A complete Blood Count (CBC) is a routine blood test performed to check for 10 different components of primary cells in your blood, including the white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. When someone takes a complete blood count test at home, the result will let them know and understand the red blood cell count, hematocrit, and hemoglobin.

When you take this blood test, you should know that it may come with results for different abnormal levels in your blood that include the following;

  • Anemia that indicates iron deficiency
  • Blood clotting problems
  • Immune system disorders
  • Infections
  • Deficiency of vitamin B5 or B12

If there is any sign of these abnormal levels in your blood count, your doctor will order you some follow-up tests to confirm the chances of possible diagnosis.

2. Basic Metabolic Panel Test

The following important blood test is a basic metabolic panel (BMP) that usually checks the level of 8 different compounds in a human body. These compounds include glucose, calcium, potassium, sodium, bicarbonate, creatinine, chloride, and blood urea nitrogen.

When you take this test, you should know that this is performed to check for abnormal levels, such as hormone imbalances, diabetes, and kidney diseases. Your doctor will order you some follow-up tests to confirm the chances of a possible diagnosis.

3. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Test

The next in line is the comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP). Conducting this test is primarily done to measure the levels mentioned in the basic metabolic panel and some additional substances and proteins connected or related to the proper functioning of the kidney. These include albumin, bilirubin, total protein, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase.

Furthermore, it is vital to know that high levels indicated in comprehensive metabolic panel tests may lead to hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver damage, liver cancer, heart conditions, adverse medication reactions, duct blockage, and abnormal count of red blood cells. Moreover, the low levels point toward the possibility of bone disorders, zinc deficiency, heart surgery, malnourishment, etc.

4. Lipid Panel Test

When someone takes a lipid panel test, their doctor recommends them this test for checking two different types of cholesterol. It includes the good cholesterol, i.e., high-density lipoprotein, and the bad cholesterol, which is low-density lipoprotein.

If the results of this test show high-density lipoprotein, you can set your mind at peace because high-density lipoprotein is good as it removes the harmful substances from your blood and also aids the liver breaks down the substances into waster. However, it will be a concern for you if your results come with low-density lipoprotein because it is the bad cholesterol that plagues arteries and increases the risk of heart disease. But making the right changes in your diet and eating habits will help you curb it.

5. Cardiac Biomarkers Test

The enzymes present in your body are proteins that will help your body accomplish some chemical processes. The functions include breaking down food and also clotting blood. They are also important in your body because it uses them for vital functions. However, when you take a cardiac biomarkers test that comes with abnormal enzyme results, it may indicate Creatine kinase, Creatine kinase-MB, and Troponin.

6. Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Test

The next in line is the sexually transmitted infection test which can be diagnosed using a blood sample. This test is sometimes combined with urine samples for further diagnosis. When someone takes this test, the results may show chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and herpes.

7. Thyroid Panel Test

When a person takes a thyroid panel test, it is generally to check for the thyroid’s functionality. It shows how well the thyroid performs, produces, and reacts to hormones, including thyroxine, triiodothyronine, and thyroid-stimulating hormone. The functions of these hormones are as follows;

  • Thyroxine is a hormone that is responsible for regulating your metabolism and helping your growth.
  • Triiodothyronine is a hormone in charge of regulating your body temperature and heart rate.
  • Thyroid-stimulating hormone is for regulating the levels of hormones that your thyroid releases.

8. Coagulation Panel Test

Another test equally important for measuring the levels of blood clots is the coagulation panel test. With this test, your doctor undermines how long it takes for your blood to clot. Remember that clotting is a crucial process that plays a vital role in stopping the blood flow after a wound. However, if there are clots in your vein and arteries, you are at risk of fatal results. The clots in veins and arteries wouldn’t let the blood flow to your heart, brain, and lungs, which leads to heart stroke or even worse.

9.  Dehyderoepiandrosterone (DHEA-Sulfate) Serum Test

The dehydroepiandrosterone serum test is a check of a hormone that comes from your adrenal glands. This gives perfect insights to your doctor into whether the levels are too high or too low.

If the results come with too low levels, the person is at high risk of Addison’s disease and adrenal dysfunction. However, if the results come with too high levels, the person is at congenital adrenal hyperplasia, an ovarian tumor, or a malignant tumor.

10. C-reactive Protein Test

The next blood test is C – reactive protein, often called CRP. C – reactive protein forms from our liver when tissues in our body are flamed. The high levels of C-reactive protein because inflammation happens for various reasons, including bacterial infection, viral infection, diabetes-related inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and cancer.

The STD test in Dubai is a process in which our professional nurses and medical staff will travel to your desired location to collect a sample. You can also visit our laboratory for the sample collection process. Our team will follow the Dubai Health Authority’s guidelines to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Here is a sneak peek into our STD test process;

The Final Words

So, when we know that blood tests give a perfect snapshot of your health and bodily conditions. They are also good for catching illness or disease early and show how your body responds to treatments and various conditions.

This is where Alpha Medical Laboratory gives you a chance to get perfect tests through the quality and standardized process being followed at our labs. We have talented medical experts with years of demonstrated experience, certifications, and training, which make them ready for testing. So, keep your health healthy and get yourself tested today by visiting our lab or getting our blood test at home service.