When someone has an infection, germs including bacteria, viruses or fungi invade the body, causing signs like fever and chills, aches and pains, and feeling generally unwell. These microscopic germs can be found in blood, urine, faces, skin cells, and saliva.
If your doctor suspects you have an infection, a blood test is one of the first tests they will consider referring you for. Blood tests are a vital diagnostic tool in the field of medicine and can help doctors determine the cause of your symptoms if they suspect an infection.
After your blood is drawn, it is sent away to a specialist lab to test for the presence of germs. Depending on the lab, you may be able to get the results in as little as 24 hours. Once your doctor has a better idea of what is causing your infection, they can prescribe the appropriate course of treatment.
Types of Blood Tests
- Blood Culture: Two or more samples are combined with substances that activate bacterial growth. If any bacteria respond, this indicates there is an infection present.
- Complete blood count (CBC): A CBC checks the levels of 10 different components of every major cell in your blood, your white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Abnormal levels can be a sign of an infection.
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP): CRP is made by your liver when your body’s tissues are inflamed. This inflammation can be caused by a wide range of causes including infection.
- Full blood count (FBC): The health of your blood cells are evaluated in an FBC. The results can reveal conditions like anaemia, inflammation, and infection.
in Leighton Buzzard
If you are worried you may have an infection and want fast, accurate results, contact Touchwood Pharmacy. We can arrange private blood tests in Sydenham to test for several different conditions such as:
You can also arrange for private blood tests in Streatham if you’re curious about your overall health. Book your appointment online today or contact us to discuss private blood tests in Walsall.
