There is no need to go to medical school if you want to understand the results of your blood test. In fact, it is good that you are taking an interest in your health. However, it is important to know upfront that lab tests are diagnostic tools and not the diagnosis. These tests are meant to provide your doctor or health physician with information that will help him understand you better and keep you healthy. So, a rule of thumb when scanning through your blood test result, do not overreact and do not interpret the results yourself. Although you will learn what the numbers mean, remember that there are so many factors that make the numbers what they are, not the least of which include - family history, age, race, medications, current regimen, lifestyle, sex, etc.
One of the most common blood test is Chem 7 which tests for 7 kinds of chemical components in your blood. Glucose measures the sugar level in your blood and this is used as a means to detect diabetes or an endocrine disorder.Blood Urea Nitrogen or BUN indicates kidney functions. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) refers to the level of CO2 (in the form of bicarbonate) is indicative of how the lungs and the kidney manage the levels of bicarbonate in the blood. Creatinine is associated with normal muscle breakdown (relates to blood pressure, kidney, and muscle-related issues). Serum chloride (CI) tests for chloride levels in the blood. Chloride helps maintain proper blood pH. Serum Potassium (K) tests for potassium in the blood. Potassium is related to muscle contractions and cell function. Serum Sodium (Na) tests for sodium in the blood. Excess sodium is excreted by the kidneys.
Other blood tests include CBC (Complete Blood Count) which basically counts red and white blood cells platelets, hemoglobin, and mean corpuscular volume. Remember, being outside the normal range does not necessarily mean a bad thing for you. There is a tolerance factor for any kind of test. Whatever the result may be, make sure you discuss it with your health provider.
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