Understanding Blood Test Analysis: What Do Your Results Mean?

Have you ever received, for example, a mean cell volume blood test (MCV) report and found yourself confused by all those numbers and medical words? Does this name explain what it means or how it is relevant to your health? Not really, not until you get some basic information about its meaning.

The mean cell volume (MCV) blood test measures the average size of your red blood cells found in the blood. The doctor uses this test to diagnose certain types of anemia or other conditions associated with abnormal MCV. Higher or lower than normal levels of MCV need more visits to the doctor, and sometimes additional lab tests may be required for further assessments.

The good news is that a doctor can easily order blood testing and the results are readily available for many tests. However, for some tests, it may take weeks to receive the results and in some cases, the tests may be repeated. Some tests may be performed again either because the doctor wants to confirm or monitor a condition. For best results, try to be patient, and follow the doctor’s advice and specific instructions before a test.

For example, some tests require fasting before the tests. You need to take these tests before you have a meal, on an empty stomach. You should not be drinking anything except water in these situations.

Blood test analysis is an important part of understanding your well-being. Doctors use these tests to examine red and white blood cell counts, cholesterol or sugar levels, and more. These tests help the doctor diagnose an illness and prescribe the right treatment to effectively manage that condition. In many cases, the sooner the doctor detects a disease, the sooner you may receive the treatment and the faster you may recover.

Let’s review in this article what are the most common blood tests and how to read a blood test result.

During a blood test, a technician collects a blood sample of your blood and sends it to a lab test for analysis. These tests help your doctor assess your health. Results within so-called “normal ranges” indicate optimal bodily function. In case of illness, the values will fall below or above the normal range.

Here's a closer look at some key components of a blood test and what the results can tell us:

1. Red Blood Cell Count (RBC): This test shows the number of red blood cells in your blood. Your body relies on red blood cells to transport oxygen to the body's organs and tissues. If your RBC count is lower than normal, you may experience fatigue and weakness. Unlike the mean cell volume blood test, which measures the size of the blood cells, the red Blood Cell Count test measures the number of these cells.

2. White Blood Cell Count (WBC). White blood cells are a key component of the immune system, responsible for fighting germs and maintaining health. Elevated levels of WBC indicate the body is fighting against an infection.

3. Platelet count. These tiny cells found in the blood are essential in clotting. These cells work together to stop bleeding and heal the wound, in case of an injury. Maintaining a healthy blood count is important to promote a healthy healing response.

4. Hemoglobin (Hb) is a protein in the blood that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of the body. If the blood testing shows hemoglobin levels are low, you may experience fatigue or dizziness because the body's tissues are not receiving enough oxygen.

5. Hematocrit. (Ht). The hematocrit assesses the percentage of red blood cells in your blood. A lower than normal hematocrit could indicate that you have anemia, as there are not enough blood cells to carry the oxygen throughout the body.

6. Blood Glucose (sugar) Levels. If your blood sugar levels are too high, it could mean you have diabetes. This test is very important to detect diabetes and monitor this condition over the years

7. Cholesterol Levels: Cholesterol is a type of fat that is present in the blood. Too much cholesterol can clog your arteries and increase your risk for heart disease Blood test analysis often involves this test.

8. Liver Function Tests: These tests evaluate the function of your liver by assessing specific proteins and enzymes. Your liver plays an essential role in detoxification and digesting the foods you eat.

Ready to order blood tests to find out how healthy you are? We are just one call away. These blood test results provide valuable information on many components of your blood, from cholesterol levels to sugar levels and blood cell counts. By knowing your blood test results, you can take action, consult a doctor, and receive treatment, if needed.

FAQ