When Should You Get a Blood Test Done?

Blood tests can be used to assess blood sugar levels, check for anaemia, and determine electrolyte balance, and liver function, among other things. Basically, they’re a great assessment of your overall health and can help detect any slight changes before they become big issues.

In most cases, a blood test is ordered by a doctor when they suspect that something may be wrong based on your symptoms. However, there are also some routine blood tests that are done as part of an annual physical or wellness check-up. 

No matter the reason for the test, getting your blood drawn is generally quick and easy and can provide valuable information about your health.

Why It’s Important to Get Annual Blood Tests

Annual blood tests are important for a variety of reasons. Namely, they can help find health problems early when they are most treatable. They can also help check for medication side effects and manage conditions such as diabetes. 

In addition, blood tests can provide information about a person’s general health and fitness. For example, they can reveal whether a person is at risk of developing heart disease or other problems. So, they’re not only used when you “feel bad” or are currently sick.

Finally, blood tests can be used to screen for hereditary diseases and to measure your sexual health. For all these reasons, it is important to have annual blood tests.

What Does a Private Blood Test Measure?

Remember that a private blood test is a test that is done by a qualified medical professional in order to measure the levels of various substances in your blood.

While you might not need to get a full panel of every blood test available done each time you head in for your annual physical, here are some of the most common blood panels people in London receive.

Complete Blood Cell Count in London

Complete blood cell (CBC) tests measure the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood. They can be used to check for problems such as anaemia, infection, and cancer. 

The test will also show how well the different types of blood cells are working. A CBC is often part of a routine physical exam. It is also used to diagnose and monitor conditions such as leukaemia, sickle cell anaemia, and thalassemia. 

In some cases, a CBC may be ordered when a person has symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, or weakness.

Blood Sugar Test in London

A blood sugar test measures the amount of sugar in your blood. Sugar is a type of carbohydrate that your body uses for energy. The test is also called a glucose test. 

Your blood sugar level can change depending on when you last ate, how much you ate, and what type of foods you ate. Also can help show if you have diabetes or prediabetes. 

A healthcare professional will take a small sample of your blood and send it to a lab for analysis. The results of the test will show how well your body is able to process sugar.

Lipid Profile in London

A lipid profile is a screening tool used to measure various fats in your blood, including triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol. The test can help identify whether you’re at risk for heart disease or other problems related to fatty buildup in your arteries. 

A lipid profile is typically ordered as part of a routine physical exam or when you have certain risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. 

The test is generally quick and simple, and it can be done in a doctor’s office or clinic. You may need to fast for a few hours before the test, depending on the instructions from your doctor. 

Metabolic Panel in London

A metabolic panel is a test that measures various substances in your blood. The most common substances that are measured are glucose, electrolytes, and kidney function. 

Glucose is a sugar that your body uses for energy, and electrolytes are minerals that help to maintain the balance of fluids in your body. The kidney function tests measure how well your kidneys are filtering your blood. 

Metabolic panels may also include tests for liver function and calcium levels. The results of a metabolic panel can help to diagnose or rule out conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease.

Screening for STDs in London

STDs, or sexually transmitted diseases, are a major concern for many people who are sexually active. While some STDs can be cured with medication, others can have more serious consequences, including infertility.

Because of this, it is important to get tested for STDs regularly. Most STD tests screen for a variety of different infections, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV, syphilis, and HPV.

Ultimately, getting tested is the best way to ensure that you and your partner are staying safe and healthy.

What to Expect During a Private Blood Test

The vast majority of blood tests take only a few minutes to complete and are carried out in a completely clean and pleasant environment. 

As for the procedure, it is generally painless, however, there is the possibility that in a small number of patients a bruise may appear near or at the site where the sample was obtained.

Preparing for the Blood Test

The clinic arranging your blood test will let you know if there are any specific instructions you need to follow before your test. This depends on the exact type of blood test you’re getting.

Specifically, if you’re getting a glucose test to measure your blood sugar, you’ll likely have to fast and then drink a sugary drink once you’re in the clinic. However, at London Blood Tests, we’ll make sure you understand how to prepare for your blood tests!

During the Blood Test

The most common type of blood test is a venous blood draw, which is when a needle is inserted into a vein in the arm to collect a blood sample. 

During the blood test, you’ll be asked to sit or lie down. We’ll place an elastic band around your upper arm. This elastic band slightly squeezes your arm and temporarily slows blood flow, causing the vein to swell a little.

Before the sample collection begins, we’ll clean your skin with an antiseptic wipe. Once the needle is inserted, you might feel a slight itching or scratching sensation. However, you shouldn’t feel any pain.

We’ll then collect the blood into a tube or vial. After enough blood is collected, we’ll remove the needed and apply a small bandage. The entire process usually only takes a few minutes.

Get Your Blood Test Results

After the blood sample is obtained, it is labelled with your name and sent directly to the laboratory, where it is processed and examined under a microscope or tested with chemicals, depending on what is being tested.

Your doctor or the lab will then let you know when the test results are available. Then your doctor will call you to review your results.

Get a Blood Test in London

Whether you’re looking for a general health check or have a specific blood test in London you’re looking for, we’re here for you. All of our tests are carried out by experienced professionals, so you can be sure that you’re getting the best possible service and results. 

Ready to schedule your visit to London Blood Tests? click to book an essential blood profile test or send us a message to schedule a consultation.