How to Understand Blood Test Results

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By barkngdogwritng
User-Submitted Article

Article Rating: (6 Ratings)

Getting blood test results can be scary, especially when the terms are confusing and your doctor doesn't have the time to explain everything. By following a few steps, you can spend all the time you need reading about your results and understanding the implications.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Your test results
Internet access
A notebook or three-ring binder with some blank paper
pen or pencil

Step 1

Let your health care provider know you would like to receive a copy of your results when they draw blood. Generally a copy of the results can either be mailed to you or you can pick one up. I usually pick up my results before I see my doctor. This gives me time to read and research the results and know what questions I want to ask when I see my doctor.
Step 2

Keep all of your blood test results in a binder - your health binder. This way you can compare the results of current tests to past results. Note - are your results within the expected range? Did the lab flag your results as high or low? If your results are within the expected range, are they closer to the high end or low end?
Step 3

Google. Search for the name of the test (for instance TSH, Free T3 or Free T4 in a thyroid test). As you read through the results, note and consider the credibility of the site you are reading. An individual's rant about one inaccurate blood test may not apply to you. Information from the Mayo Clinic or other major hospitals may be more credible. As you read, jot down notes of what your results could possibly mean. If specific diseases or syndromes are referenced (such as Graves disease), search for that disease.
Step 4

Keep reading and researching. You are your best advocate. If you are too tired or sick to research your results, ask a friend or family member to do the research and come to your doctor appointment with you. The more you understand what the possible implications of your results are, the better educated you will be to talk with your doctor about treatment.
Step 5

If appropriate, look for support communities for your medical condition. These can be found online or in person. Since these communities are made up of people who have gone through the same thing you are going through, they can help you understand your blood results and potential treatments.

Comments

AllFYB said

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on 3/27/2009 This is so important after all you are the one in charge of your health. Thanks for the much needed article and steps to read and understand blood test results.