A blood test is a laboratory examination of a sample of a person’s blood, used to evaluate their general health status and/or to diagnose a specific medical condition. Blood tests can measure various substances in the blood, such as hormones, enzymes, proteins, glucose (sugar), and red and white blood cells, to name a few examples.
There are many different types of blood tests, each with its own purpose. For example, a complete blood count (CBC) is a commonly performed blood test that provides information about the number and types of blood cells in a sample, while a blood glucose test is used to diagnose and monitor diabetes. Blood tests can be performed for routine check-ups or in response to specific symptoms or health concerns.
It’s important to note that the results of blood tests can only provide a snapshot of a person’s health status at the time the sample was taken and may not indicate a long-term condition or disease. A healthcare provider will typically interpret the results in the context of the individual’s overall medical history and other factors.