HEMOGLOBIN A1C: A Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test measures the average level of blood sugar over the past 2-3 months and measures the percentage of hemoglobin in your blood that is coated with sugar. A higher percentage of HbA1c indicates higher blood sugar levels. The test can help identify diabetes or track how well it is being controlled. It's also known as the A1C test, glycated hemoglobin test, or glycohemoglobin test.
Simplified: Shows your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. Measures the percentage of your red blood cells that have sugar attached to them. A higher percentage means higher blood sugar levels, which could indicate diabetes or poor blood glucose control.
COMPLETE BLOOD COUNT (CBC) W/ DIFF/PLT: A complete blood count is often part of a routine checkup. It is also used to monitor a condition or treatment that may affect your blood cell counts such as infections, anemia, immune system disorders, and blood cancers. Your health care provider may have ordered a complete blood count as part of your checkup or to monitor your overall health. The test may also be used to:
Help diagnose blood diseases, infections, immune system disorders, or other medical conditions
Check for changes in an existing blood disorder
Simplified: Common blood test that checks various things of your blood, like red and white blood cells and platelets. Often part of a routine checkup and helps detect conditions like anemia, infections, or blood disorders.
VITAMIN D, 25-OH, TOTAL, IA: The major circulating form of vitamin D is 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D); thus, the total serum 25(OH)D level is currently considered the best indicator of vitamin D supply to the body from cutaneous synthesis (the process by which the body produces vitamin D in the skin through exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation from sunlight) and nutritional intake.
The reference range of the total 25(OH)D level is 25-80 ng/mL (nanograms per milliliter)
Simplified: This test measures the amount of vitamin D in your blood. Vitamin D is important for bone health and other bodily functions. The normal range is 25-80 ng/mL.
URINALYSIS, COMPLETE REFLEX TO CULTURE: Urine test where a basic chemical analysis is performed first, and if certain kinds of abnormalities are detected (like blood, protein, or signs of infection), the lab will then do a more detailed microscopic examination of the urine to identify the cause of the abnormality. It's basically a tiered testing approach where further analysis is done only if needed based on initial results. This test might be used to:
Diagnose urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Monitor kidney function
Check for signs of diabetes
Investigate potential causes of blood in the urine
Simplified: This is a urine test that checks for various substances in your urine. If anything unusual is found, more testing may be done. It helps diagnose urinary tract infections, kidney problems, or diabetes.
MAGNESIUM: Magnesium measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment of hypomagnesemia (abnormally low plasma levels of magnesium) and hypermagnesemia (abnormally high plasma levels of magnesium). Magnesium is used in over 300 biochemical processes in the body and is decreased in chronic nephritis, acute pancreatitis, and alcoholic cirrhosis. It is increased in acute or chronic renal (kidney) failure and Addison's Disease. The normal range for blood magnesium level is 1.7 to 2.2 mg/dL/0.85 to 1.10 mmol/L (normal value ranges can vary slightly among laboratories)
Simplified: This blood test measures magnesium levels in your body. Magnesium is important for many bodily functions. Normal levels are between 1.3 to 2.1 mEq/L.
LIPID PANEL: A comprehensive lipid assessment aids in the evaluation of cardiovascular risk and the likelihood of suffering an ischemic event. It is also useful for the prevention and management of atherosclerotic disease, as well as the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome. Often ordered with this test -> see here.
Simplified: This blood test checks your cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which can help assess your risk of heart disease.
VITAMIN B12/FOLATE, SERUM PANEL: A doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of anemia, neuropathy, or abnormal results from a Complete Blood Count (CBC). Used to help identify deficiencies that could be affecting your energy, mental clarity, and overall health. Vitamins B12 and folate (B9) are essential for healthy red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and cell division
Simplified: This blood test checks for levels of vitamin B12 and folate, which are important for making red blood cells and DNA.
TSH W/REFLEX TO FREE T4: Used for detecting abnormal thyroid hormone levels, diagnosing thyroid disorders, evaluating treatment effectiveness, and monitoring thyroid cancer. TSH indirectly affects the thyroid gland's production of thyroxine (T4), which is important for the body to function normally. Your thyroid gland is considered your body’s “master regulator” of metabolism.
Simplified: This test checks how well your thyroid is working by measuring thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels.
ZINC: Zinc is an essential element involved in a myriad of enzyme systems which include wound healing, immune function, testosterone production, and fetal development. Zinc measurements are used to detect and track industrial, dietary, and accidental exposure to zinc. Also, measurements of zinc may be used to evaluate health and response to treatment.
Simplified: This test measures zinc levels in your blood. Zinc is important for wound healing, testosterone, immune function, and development.
COMPREHENSIVE METABOLIC PANEL (CMP): A series of blood tests that measures 14 substances in your blood, including electrolytes, proteins, and glucose. can help your doctor:
Assess how well your liver and kidneys are functioning
Monitor your blood sugar levels
Evaluate your electrolyte and fluid balance
Detect disorders that may affect your liver or kidneys
Determine how well you are hydrated
Identify adverse medication side effects
Simplified: This is a group of 14 blood tests that provide an overall picture of your body's chemical balance and metabolism.
Remember, these tests help your doctor understand your overall health and detect and monitor various conditions. I’m not a doctor. I’m a patient, but try to be an informed one and an empowered one. Always talk to and discuss your results with your doctor for interpretation. Try to find a good naturopathic or osteopathic one.
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Cheers to your health and God bless.
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