Laboratory testing plays one crucial aspect in your healthcare. However, while lab tests play a vital role, they do not always provide all the information your practitioner requires to make a diagnosis or care decision. Rather, your doctor relies on the findings of your lab Humble, as well as information on your health, age, gender, and other relevant characteristics. As such, it is important not only to understand why the test is being performed but also to comprehend what the results represent and what factors can influence them. Read on to learn more!
Why Is Laboratory Testing Necessary?
Generally, lab tests are performed for one or more of the following reasons:
- To verify a diagnosis
- To figure out what is causing the symptoms
- To check for the presence of an illness. Persons of a certain age or at high risk for a particular illness are frequently subjected to screening tests.
- To determine the seriousness of a disease
- To aid in the diagnosis of a condition or illness
- To confirm specific occurrences (for instance, DNA testing following rape or urine testing to check for drug usage)
- To keep track of a disease’ progress, how effectively an organ is operating, or if treatment is working
Many factors can affect the findings of your lab tests. Any abnormal results relevant to you will be discussed with your doctor.
Understanding Your Results; What To Expect
Lab test outcomes could be negative, positive, or inconclusive. Your doctor will go over what your test findings mean for you and your health. Here is what to expect:
v Positive: A positive test result indicates the presence of the condition or substance being tested for. Positive test findings could also indicate that the quantity of the substance being tested for is lower or higher than expected
v Negative: A negative test outcome implies the condition or substance being tested for is not present. Negative outcomes could potentially imply that the substance under investigation was present in a normal quantity.
v Inconclusive test: An inconclusive test is not negative or positive. For instance, some tests measure the number of antibodies to certain viruses or bacteria in the blood or other bodily fluid. It is not always black/white whether many antibodies highlight an infection.
What Can Affect The Outcomes Of Your Test?
Whereas laboratory testing is often accurate in diagnosis, some factors could still affect your test’s findings, leading to issues like an inconclusive or false test. Some of these factors include:
- Not adhering to the instructions on how to prepare for the test. For instance, some tests like triglyceride and cholesterol analysis may need you to fast for not less than 12 hours before the examination. Other tests, like 2-hour postprandial blood sugar, necessitates you to consume 2 hours before the test.
- Some natural remedies or medications
- Taking vitamin supplements
- Consuming caffeinated beverages or alcoholic beverages
- Rigorous exercise
- Stress
Adhere to your doctor’s guidelines to ensure that your test outcomes are as precise as feasible.
Are you seeking quality laboratory testing services in Humble, TX? Look no further than Calvary Urgent Care. The board-certified specialists will not only deliver expert testing but also help you understand all you should know about laboratory testing and the care solutions available for you in the case of a confirmed diagnosis. Request an appointment today through mobile or using the online scheduling tool today.