How to Use Blood Tests to Detect Anorexia

Anorexia is one of several disorders that involves some form of self-starvation. It can be serious and even life-threatening, but the symptoms are not always as obvious as they may seem. One way to pinpoint the diagnosis is to use blood tests to detect anorexia.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Trained professional to perform the tests

Prepare for the Test

1. Ask your doctor which tests he is ordering. Blood tests that detect anorexia may include a complete blood count (CBC) or tests which measure the functioning of major body organs.

2. Follow any pre-test instructions you are given, such as when and what you can eat and drink.

3. Realize you may be required to fast for a certain period of time before the test is administered.

Take the Test

4. Go to the lab where the test has been ordered and get the test done. In a few days to a week, your doctor will have the results.

5. Go over the results with your doctor or practitioner. Many medical professionals do not automatically take the time to discuss the results of tests in detail. Ask for time to see and understand the results.

6. Do as your doctor advises, including seeing one or more specialists. Anorexia is a complex condition and needs both physical and psychological treatment.

7. Pursue treatment actively. Ask your health professional about how long it will be before you see results. If your health does not improve in that time, notify your doctor and discuss other possibilities with her.

8. Learn about various blood tests and their range of results at Medline Plus Medical Encyclopedia (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Doctors use the CBC to detect anemia, a common side effect of anorexia, from a poor hemoglobin count. It can also indicate malnutrition from a lack of certain vitamins and other nutrients.
• Other tests may measure the amount of hormones, electrolytes, enzymes and other substances necessary to good health in the blood. These latter tests measure the effectiveness of the organs, such as the liver, kidneys and thyroid gland, that make and process these substances.
• All blood tests are basically the same: The technician inserts a needle in a vein on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand and draws the blood into a vial (sometimes more than one vial). The needle is then removed and a sterile bandage or cotton ball is placed on the prick mark.
• There may be some pain associated with a blood test, comparable to a sharp prick or insect sting. However, most technicians use very fine needles, so discomfort should be minimal.

Resources

• Medline Plus Medical Encyclopedia for info about blood tests.

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