Understanding Common Blood Tests: A Plain-English Guide

What the most common blood tests check for, and how to make sense of your results.
Gloved hand holding a sample tube in a laboratory
This is general information, not personal medical advice

It cannot account for your history, medication or examination findings. If a symptom is severe, sudden or getting worse, seek medical care promptly. See our full medical disclaimer.

Blood tests are among the most common medical tests. They help check your general health, diagnose conditions and monitor treatment. Tests you may hear about include:

  • Complete blood count (CBC): red cells, white cells and platelets, which can point to anemia or infection.
  • Metabolic panel: kidney function, electrolytes and blood sugar.
  • Lipid panel: cholesterol and triglycerides.
  • HbA1c: your average blood sugar over the past two to three months.
  • Thyroid tests: how well your thyroid gland is working.

Some tests require fasting, so follow the instructions you are given. Normal ranges vary between laboratories, and a result slightly outside the range is not always a problem. Your doctor will interpret results alongside your symptoms and history, so ask them to explain anything you are unsure about.

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This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified health professional.

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