Blood tests are a vital diagnostic tool in medicine. They can tell a medical professional a lot about a person’s health and well-being as well as help diagnose certain conditions. One of the most common blood tests requested by doctors is a Complete Blood Count, also known as a CBC test.
A CBC panel works by measuring the cells present in your blood. Having unusual cell ranges can be indicative of several health problems like cancer, infections, and blood disorders.
What Does a CBC Do?
Your blood sample will be taken from a vein, usually in your arm. It will be sent away to a laboratory to be tested for:
- White blood cells
- Red blood cells
- Platelets
- Haemoglobin
- Haematocrit
White blood cells are part of your immune system and help you fight off infection. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout your body and your haematocrit level measures how many red blood cells you have. Haemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells and is what gives them their red hue.
Platelets are essential to helping your wounds heal by creating blood clots that stop bleeding.
Unusual levels of any of these readings can help medical professionals gain insight into your health. They can also use the results to diagnose health conditions.
Do I Need a CBC Test?
Even if you don’t feel unwell, a complete blood count test can be used to check your overall state of health. Your results can help you make positive changes to your lifestyle and potentially catch conditions before they develop or become serious.
You may need a CBC panel if you’ve been feeling ill or suspect you have a condition like leukaemia, anaemia, or immune system dysfunction. They can also be useful to discover the cause of symptoms like tiredness, bleeding, and unexplained bruising.
Private Thyroid Blood Tests in Bromley
If you’re worried you have a problem with your thyroid gland, there are specific thyroid blood tests available. These tests are designed to give a profile of your thyroid function and whether there are any issues that need treatment or further investigation.
Affordable CBC panels and private thyroid blood tests can be easily arranged at your local Touchwood Pharmacy. To stay on top of your health or thyroid function, contact us today to set up private thyroid blood tests in Lichfield and Northolt.
