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It is common for doctors to recommend blood tests after a medical examination or routine examination.
Blood tests can identify vitamin or mineral deficiencies, immune system problems or signs of infection, and whether organs such as the liver, heart or kidneys are functioning properly, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Fox News Digital spoke with a doctor about how to prepare for your next blood test.
Reasons for blood tests
Doctors may order blood tests for three main reasons: screening, diagnosis, or monitoring.
Blood tests can identify vitamin or mineral deficiencies, immune system problems or signs of infection, as well as whether organs such as the liver, heart or kidneys are working properly. (iStock)
Screenings are not related to symptoms and are based on age, risk factors or last checkup, according to Brintha Vasagar, MD, a family physician at Bayhealth Family Medicine in Dover, Delaware.
These tests can reveal things like cholesterolglucose, HIV or hepatitis C.
Tests for diagnosis are based on the symptoms you report to your doctor, Vasagar said.
“We carefully select blood counts to help manage or exclude diseases that could be causing those symptoms,” she told Fox News Digital.
Doctors may order blood tests for three main reasons: screening, diagnosis, or monitoring.
Follow-up blood tests can be done if you’ve already been diagnosed and your doctor wants to make sure the treatment is working and check for negative side effects, Vasagar said.
These tests will help your doctor make recommendations for changing medications or life habits.
What to expect from a blood draw
A technician will take you to a private area and confirm your name and date of birth, Vasagar shared.
After you’re seated in the chair, the technician will place a tight band around your upper arm to help make the veins more accessible.
Then a technician will clean the area and insert a small needle to collect vials of blood, the doctor said.
After you’re seated in a chair, the technician will place a tight band around your upper arm to help make the veins more accessible. (iStock)
“Some blood tests require different types of tests, so sometimes we need several vials of blood,” she said.
“Once they get what they need, they’ll take the needle out and apply pressure to help your blood clot.”
The technician will label each vial of blood with your identifying information and ask you to confirm that it is correct, Vasagar added.
What to do before a blood test
If you have them fear or anxiety about taking blood tests, experts recommend that you discuss your concerns with your doctor ahead of time.
“They see a lot of people who are worried about needles and blood and can help put your mind at ease,” noted the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
“Some people like to plan first thing in the morning so that their fasting time lasts overnight and has less of an impact on their daily routine.”
“I usually prepare patients with what we expect the results to be and when they can expect to meet with me again or receive a call to discuss the results,” Vasagar said.
“I also tell patients that they will always be notified of these findings, even if they are normal, so if they haven’t heard anything, they should call.”
If you have any fear or anxiety about having your blood drawn, experts recommend that you discuss your concerns with your doctor beforehand. (iStock)
You can resume your normal routine the day before the blood test. However, if your doctor has told you to fast, you should avoid it eat or drink nothing but plain water for eight to 12 hours before the blood test, Vasagar said.
“Some people like to plan first thing in the morning so that their fasting time lasts overnight and has less impact on their daily routine,” she said.
Fasting is only required for certain blood tests, so it’s important to check with your doctor.
Drinking plenty of water before your exam will help prepare your veins so your technician can draw blood more easily. (iStock)
If fasting isn’t necessary, it’s a good idea to eat and drink before the blood draw to prevent lightheadedness, according to Vasagar.
“If you start to feel dizzy, tell your technician so they can help you lie down and bring you a snack and water,” the doctor said.
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drinking a lot of water before your appointment will help prepare your veins so your technician can draw blood more easily, she added.
More tips for smart planning
Blood will be drawn from your arm, so dress so the technician can access your arm.
“Layering is a great way to stay warm while also allowing the blood to work more easily,” suggested Vasagar.
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Feeling prepared can be a good way to fight anxiety. Plan to be on time for your appointment and bring a photo ID and insurance card.
If you are fasting, you can bring snacks, water or coffee to drink as soon as you finish, the doctor advises.
The blood draw takes only a few minutes and is generally not painful, experts agree. (iStock)
If you feel more comfortable, bring a relative or friend, or listen to music with headphones to distract you from the needle, the same source suggested.
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Keep in mind that the blood test only takes a few minutes and is generally not painful, experts agree.
