Blood Test: Types, Procedure & More

What Is A Blood Test?

The composition of blood provides insights into your health. As such, blood tests are conducted either to investigate symptoms or as routine examinations. Different values of the blood sample are analyzed in the laboratory. A single blood sample allows for various tests to be performed.

Blood comprises 55% of so-called blood plasma (water, proteins, electrolytes, enzymes, hormones, and others) and 45% of blood cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets). Moreover, many other values in the blood can be examined, such as vitamins, minerals, hormones, inflammation markers, and the concentration of consumed medications. Therefore, blood tests play a significant role in medical diagnostics. [2]

What Types Of Blood Tests Exist?

The most common blood tests include the small blood count, the differential blood count, and the comprehensive blood count. The comprehensive blood count consists of the complete and the differential blood count and can provide insights into possible anemia as well as acute or chronic infections in the body. Additionally, it can detect organic problems, such as those related to the kidneys or liver. [3] The choice of blood test depends on specific symptoms, medical history, and examination goals.

In the small blood count, red and white blood cells, as well as platelets, are examined. A complete blood count includes:

• Red blood cells (erythrocytes)
• Red blood pigment (hemoglobin)
• Percentage of cells in the blood (hematocrit)
• Average volume of a red blood cell
• Average concentration of hemoglobin in a single red blood cell
• White blood cells (leukocytes)
• Platelets (thrombocytes)

In the differential blood count, white blood cells are examined. It includes:

• Neutrophils
• Lymphocytes
• Monocytes
• Eosinophilic granulocytes
• Basophilic granulocytes

Other common blood analyses examine:

• Inflammatory parameters, including the differential blood count and CRP
• Metabolism, with values for glucose, different types of cholesterol, and triglycerides
• Iron status, with transferrin, ferritin, and iron
• Bone status, with calcium and vitamin D
• Cognition through folic acid and vitamin B12

Furthermore, there are blood tests that examine the liver, kidneys, thyroid, or pancreas. [4] [5]

What Is Examined In A Blood Test?

Blood serves as a transport medium and contains water, salts, proteins, glucose, fat, vitamins, hormones, and metabolic products. A blood test analyzes these components and can reflect your health.

For instance, red blood cells provide insights into blood deficiency (anemia) or deficiencies such as vitamin B12, folic acid, and iron. These impact nerve function, blood formation, cell division, and growth processes. Especially vegans should have their vitamin B12 levels tested. Folic acid plays a significant role in pregnancy. Particularly in winter, it's advisable to check your vitamin D levels, which is produced by sunlight and is important for bones, muscles, hair, and the immune system. White blood cells can indicate inflammation or allergies, while blood sugar levels can suggest a potential diabetes condition. [6]

However, a blood test can reveal much more. It can detect vitamins, nutrients, and organic issues such as kidney, liver, or thyroid diseases. Thus, a blood test provides information about your nutrition and health and allows for timely action when problems arise. [5]

How Often Should Blood Tests Be Conducted?

It's recommended to monitor relevant blood values at regular intervals to detect diseases or deficiencies early and respond accordingly. Regular blood testing is not only beneficial for athletic performance but can also enhance everyday performance.

At CARE, you can easily and efficiently conduct blood tests without long waiting times. Thanks to the CARE app, you have your blood values at your fingertips and can better understand your health.

Preparation, Procedure, and Duration of a Blood Test

During a blood test, blood is usually taken from the elbow crease as the blood vessels there are easily accessible. Veins run just below the surface of your skin and carry oxygen-poor blood to the heart. For this reason, they have less pressure than arteries and are used for blood sampling.

Preparation

A blood test typically requires no specific preparation, except for certain blood values that need to be taken on an empty stomach. In such cases, you should refrain from eating and consuming sugary drinks for eight to twelve hours before the test. It's also important to drink enough water before the blood draw to stabilize blood pressure.

Procedure

Before the blood draw, the puncture site is thoroughly disinfected. Then, a small and usually painless puncture is made with a fine needle. Our Medical Practice Assistants (MPAs) are highly skilled and gentle. Your own blood pressure then carries the blood into the vial. Multiple blood tubes are collected for different blood values. The blood tubes are labeled with your name and identification number to prevent mix-ups. The required amount of blood varies depending on the necessary laboratory analyses. After the draw, bleeding is stopped, and the puncture site is covered with a plaster.

Duration

The blood draw itself takes only a few minutes. The blood sample is then sent to the lab and analyzed.

Evaluation

The evaluation of the blood test can take a few minutes to hours, depending on the laboratory values. Some values, however, may take a few days to be analyzed. [7] At CARE, you receive the results of your blood values within a week.

Where Can I Get a Blood Test?

You can get a blood test done either by your doctor or general practitioner or simply and conveniently at CARE. At CARE, you receive optimal service for regular health check-ups, including detailed blood tests. Thanks to the intuitive CARE app, you have your blood values at your fingertips and can react early to diseases, deficiencies, or changes. Experienced doctors and health coaches are there to explain your blood values and provide advice for improving your health. Spare yourself long waiting times at your general practitioner and book a free initial consultation now.

What Does a Blood Test Cost?

The cost of a blood test can vary depending on the number and type of blood values examined. In some cases, the costs may be covered by your health insurance. This is usually the case when the medical practice orders a blood test. However, a blood test is a worthwhile investment in your health, allowing you to react early to potential problems.

Conclusion

In summary, blood tests help you recognize how healthy you truly are. Even though many symptoms already provide hints about potential issues, the blood test helps you gain clarity. Blood values can not only reveal hidden diseases and provide clarity with vague complaints but also highlight necessary improvements in your lifestyle. This can include reducing alcohol consumption, smoking, improving your diet, and managing stress. Regular blood tests are a suitable means of assessing the progress of your actions. [8]