All You Need to Know about Complete Blood Count Test |
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A complete blood count (CBC) test is used to check the overall cell count of the blood in the human body. It includes red blood cells, white blood cells, haemoglobin, and platelets. Usually, this test is suggested by the medical practitioner as a routine test to check the patient's overall health or to check for specific health-related conditions. However, it is important to know that the CBC test is not a definitive diagnostic test. The test shows any increase or decrease in the cell count in the blood. If the test report is not in the normal range, it may indicate an existing medical condition. The doctor may suggest some additional tests for a proper diagnosis of the patient. Mostly, a doctor recommends this test along with other medical lab tests to figure out any medical conditions that may exist in the patient. There are a number of reasons why a medical practitioner may tell a patient to get a CBC test done. These are: When the patient has visible symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, infection, bleeding, and weakness. This test is recommended to find out the root cause. A CBC test is also suggested as a part of treatment for an existing medical condition that may affect the patient's blood count. It is recommended as part of a regular health checkup. It is also prescribed by the doctor to monitor the progress of ongoing medical treatment. A CBC test is a blood test that takes only a few minutes. A phlebotomist draws blood directly from the patient's veins. There is no special preparation required to take this test. There are also no food restrictions before taking the CBC test. However, the person should disclose information about any regular medication that they have been taking prescribed by the doctor. In general, there are no side effects to taking the CBC test. In some cases, the person may feel dizzy or experience weakness for some time after the blood sample is taken. Besides this, excessive bleeding and hematoma are other side effects of having blood drawn that occur in rare cases. The CBC test measures: White blood cells have an important role in the body’s ability to fight foreign germs. If a person’s white blood cell count is low, then it may be an indication of an existing medical condition such as leukopenia, which is an autoimmune disorder. It can also indicate a high risk of infection in a person. However, a low count of white blood cells can also be caused by certain medications. If the white blood cell count is low, it indicates the presence of inflammation or infection in the body. It can also be caused by an immune system disorder. The red blood cell is responsible for carrying oxygen to different parts of the human body. If the red blood cell count is lower in a person, it can potentially be caused by anaemia. If the red blood cell count is higher, it may be due to erythrocytosis. It can also be due to serious health conditions such as blood cancer or heart disease. If the platelets in the blood are not in the normal range, it indicates a medical condition. It can also be caused by the side effects of medicines. A person can take a CBC test at an affordable price at any medical laboratory in their city. It is recommended to take the test report to a medical practitioner for diagnosis |
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