General Health Blood Test
This comprehensive panel assesses everything from adrenal and thyroid function to cholesterol and hormone levels, providing a complete picture of your well-being.
General Health Blood Test
This comprehensive general health blood test is vital for a thorough assessment of overall health, as it evaluates a wide range of biomarkers and can detect potential issues early on.
Why have a General Health Blood Test?
- Assess Adrenal Function: The test includes Adrenal Hormones such as Cortisol and DHEA sulfate, aiding in the assessment of adrenal gland function and detecting disorders such as adrenal insufficiency or Cushing’s syndrome.
- Screen for Autoimmune Disorders: It tests for Autoimmunity markers like Thyroglobulin antibodies and Thyroid peroxidase antibodies, helping to identify autoimmune thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease.
- Evaluate Cholesterol Levels: The test assesses Cholesterol Status, including HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, Non-HDL cholesterol, Total cholesterol, Total cholesterol: HDL ratio, and Triglyceride levels, providing insights into cardiovascular health and the risk of heart disease.
- Monitor Clotting Function: By analysing Clotting Status markers like Platelet count, the test helps assess blood clotting function and detect abnormalities that may increase the risk of bleeding disorders or thrombosis.
- Manage Diabetes: It measures HbA1c levels helping to monitor long-term blood glucose control in individuals with diabetes.
- Assess Gout Risk: The test evaluates Uric acid levels to assess the risk of gout, a type of arthritis caused by the build up of uric acid crystals in the joints.
- Evaluate Hormonal Balance: It includes Hormone markers such as Free androgen index, FSH, LH, Estradiol, Prolactin, Testosterone, and Testosterone: Cortisol ratio, aiding in the assessment of hormonal balance and detecting disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal imbalances.
- Detect Inflammation: By measuring hs-CRP levels, the test helps detect inflammation in the body, which may indicate underlying health conditions such as infection, autoimmune disorders, or cardiovascular disease.
- Assess Iron Status: It evaluates Iron Status markers including Ferritin, Iron, Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC), and Transferrin saturation, aiding in the diagnosis and management of iron deficiency anaemia and other iron-related disorders.
- Monitor Kidney and Liver Health: The test includes markers for Kidney Health (Creatinine, eGFR, Urea) and Liver Health (ALP, ALT, Bilirubin, Gamma GT), providing insights into kidney and liver function and detecting potential disorders or diseases affecting these organs.
- Evaluate Protein Levels: By analysing Protein markers such as Albumin, Globulin, SHBG, and Total proteins, the test helps assess overall protein status and may indicate conditions such as malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney disease.
- Assess Red Blood Cell Parameters: It measures Red Blood Cell parameters including Haematocrit, Haemoglobin, MCH, MCHC, MCV, and Red Cell count, providing insights into red blood cell health and diagnosing conditions such as anaemia or blood disorders.
- Thyroid Function Evaluation: The test assesses Thyroid Hormones including Free T3, Free Thyroxine, and TSH levels, aiding in the evaluation of thyroid function and detecting thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
- Check Vitamin Levels: It evaluates Vitamin levels such as Folate (serum), active Vitamin B12, and Vitamin D, providing insights into nutritional status and detecting deficiencies that can impact overall health and well-being.
- Monitor White Blood Cell Counts: By measuring White Blood Cell parameters including Basophils, Eosinophils, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Neutrophils, and White Cell count, the test helps assess immune function and detect infections, inflammation, or blood disorders.
What is tested? - 56 Biomarkers
- Adrenal Hormones – Cortisol and DHEA sulphate
- Autoimmunity – Thyroglobulin antibody and Thyroid peroxidase antibodies
- Cholesterol Status – HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, Non-HDL cholesterol, Total cholesterol, Total cholesterol : HDL and Triglycerides
- Clotting Status – Platelet count
- Diabetes – HbA1c
- Gout Risk – Uric acid
- Hormones – Free androgen index, FSH, Hormone phase, LH, Oestradiol, Prolactin, Testosterone and Testosterone : cortisol
- Inflammation – hs-CRP
- Iron Status – Ferritin, Iron, TIBC and Transferrin saturation
- Kidney Health – Creatinine, eGFR and Urea
- Liver Health – ALP, ALT, Bilirubin and Gamma GT
- Proteins – Albumin, Globulin, SHBG and Total proteins
- Red Blood Cells – Haematocrit, Haemoglobin, MCH, MCHC, MCV and Red cell count
- Thyroid Hormones – Free T3, Free thyroxine and TSH
- Vitamins – Folate – serum, Vitamin B12 – active and Vitamin D
- White Blood Cells – Basophils, Eosinophils, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Neutrophils and White cell count
Please note:
- Results can take up to 7 working days from the sample being sent in the post.
- Your results will include a doctor’s overview which should give you all the information you require. If you would like further information, we recommend you visit your GP.
Special Instructions:
- Take your sample between 6am and 10am.
- Avoid vigorous exercise or sexual activity for 48 hours beforehand – both can raise your prolactin level. Avoid nipple stimulation or heavy meals before taking the test, as these can increase prolactin levels.
- If you have an unusual sleep pattern (eg shift worker) then take this test within 2 hours of waking.
- Avoid nipple stimulation or heavy meals before taking the test, as these can increase prolactin levels.
- Take this test when any symptoms of short-term illness have settled.
- Take this test two to five days after the start of your period, ideally on day three. It can be taken any time if you do not have periods.
- Avoid fatty foods for eight hours before your test, you do not need to fast.
- Stay well hydrated before your test.
- Corticosteroid medication can affect this test, ask your doctor whether to stop before testing.
- Take your sample at least 24 hours after any vitamin or mineral supplements.
- Do not take biotin supplements for two days before this test, discuss this with your doctor if it is prescribed.
- Do not take vitamin B12 for two weeks prior to this test. If your B12 is prescribed ask your doctor whether to stop.
- Hormonal contraception can affect the results of this test. Taking a break from this and waiting for your periods to restart before your blood test will give more accurate results.
Detailed Breakdown
Liver Function Tests:
- Albumin: Albumin is a protein produced by the liver. It helps maintain oncotic pressure in the blood and transports various substances, including hormones and drugs. Low levels of albumin may indicate liver dysfunction or malnutrition.
- ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase): ALP is an enzyme found in various tissues, including the liver, bones, and bile ducts. Elevated ALP levels may indicate liver or bone disorders.
- ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase): ALT is an enzyme found primarily in the liver. Elevated ALT levels are often indicative of liver damage or inflammation, such as in hepatitis or liver disease.
- GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase): GGT is an enzyme found in the liver and other tissues. Elevated GGT levels may indicate liver damage, bile duct obstruction, or alcohol abuse.
- Globulin: Globulins are a group of proteins, including antibodies, produced by the liver and immune system. Abnormal levels of globulins may indicate liver disease, autoimmune disorders, or certain infections.
- Total Protein: Total protein measures the total amount of protein in the blood, including albumin and globulins. Abnormal levels may indicate liver or kidney disease, malnutrition, or dehydration.
- Total Bilirubin: Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced by the breakdown of red blood cells. Total bilirubin measures both direct (conjugated) and indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin levels. Elevated total bilirubin may indicate liver dysfunction, bile duct obstruction, or hemolytic disorders.
Kidney Function Tests:
- Creatinine: Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscle metabolism. It is filtered from the blood by the kidneys and excreted in urine. Elevated creatinine levels may indicate impaired kidney function.
- Urea (Blood Urea Nitrogen, BUN): Urea is a waste product formed in the liver from the breakdown of proteins. It is excreted by the kidneys. Elevated urea levels may indicate kidney dysfunction or dehydration.
- Sodium: Sodium is an electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance and nerve function. Abnormal sodium levels may indicate dehydration, kidney dysfunction, or certain hormonal imbalances.
- eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate): eGFR is a calculated value that estimates the glomerular filtration rate, a measure of kidney function. It is used to assess overall kidney function.
Lipid Profile:
- Cholesterol: Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in the blood. Elevated cholesterol levels, particularly LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol), are a risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
- HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): HDL cholesterol is often referred to as “good” cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease.
- LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because high levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Non-HDL Cholesterol: Non-HDL cholesterol includes LDL cholesterol and other potentially atherogenic lipoproteins. It is considered a useful marker for assessing cardiovascular risk.
- HDL:Cholesterol Ratio: The ratio of HDL cholesterol to total cholesterol or LDL cholesterol is used as an indicator of cardiovascular risk. A higher ratio of HDL to total cholesterol or LDL cholesterol is associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
- Triglycerides: Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood. Elevated triglyceride levels are associated with an increased risk of heart disease and pancreatitis.
TF1 (Thyroid Function Tests):
- TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone): TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Abnormal TSH levels may indicate thyroid dysfunction.
- FT4 (Free Thyroxine): FT4 is a measure of the active form of thyroid hormone in the bloodstream. Abnormal FT4 levels may indicate thyroid dysfunction.
Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in the formation of red blood cells, nerve function, and DNA synthesis. Low vitamin B12 levels may cause anemia and neurological symptoms.
CA125: CA125 is a protein marker that may be elevated in certain conditions, including ovarian cancer and other gynecological disorders. CA125 testing is often used in the monitoring of ovarian cancer treatment and surveillance.
CK (Creatine Kinase): CK is an enzyme found in muscle tissue. Elevated CK levels may indicate muscle damage, such as from injury, muscle diseases, or heart attacks.
Uric Acid: Uric acid is a waste product produced by the breakdown of purines. Elevated uric acid levels may indicate gout or kidney dysfunction.
FBC (Full Blood Count): FBC is a comprehensive blood test that includes measurements of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It provides information about various blood disorders, infections, and inflammatory conditions.
HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c): HbA1c is a test used to measure average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. It is used in the diagnosis and management of diabetes.
Iron Studies: Iron studies include measurements of serum iron, ferritin (a protein that stores iron), transferrin (a protein that transports iron), and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). They help diagnose and monitor iron deficiency anemia and other iron-related disorders.
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What is the process?
- Our experienced phlebotomist will uncover your right or left arm.
- A tourniquet will be placed around your upper arm. A tourniquet makes it easier for a needle to be placed in your veins by swelling the veins.
- Once the tourniquet is fitted, a small quantity of blood will be drawn into tubes, using a needle.
- After the blood draw is completed, a plaster will be placed onto the site; this can be removed after a couple of hours.
- We will then post your sample to our partner laboratory for analysis.
- You will receive your results within 7 working days after the sample has been sent onto the laboratory.
What do I do with my results?
Your results will include a doctor's overview which should give you all the information you require. If you would like further information, we recommend you visit your GP.
Preparing for your blood test?
- Hydrate – Try to reduce caffeine intake and drink plenty of water before the day of your blood draw, making it easier for our phlebotomist to locate a vein for blood to be drawn from
- Loose Clothing – Our phlebotomist will require access to your arm. Please wear loose clothing to make accessing your arm easier and more comfortable.
- Medication – Please let our phlebotomist know if you are on blood thinners on the day of your blood draw.
Frequently asked questions?
How much blood is taken?
Approximately 8 ml of blood is taken; this is placed into a special tube for transportation to the laboratory.
How long is the appointment?
The appointment is approximately 10 minutes long. Please ensure to arrive early to complete any necessary paperwork that may be outstanding.
What if I'm scared of needles?
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about needles, but please be assured that you are in good hands. Our phlebotomist is experienced and compassionate, and they are here to support you every step of the way. Upon arrival to the clinic, please communicate your concerns to our phlebotomist who will take extra care when carrying out the blood draw.
What if you can't get a blood sample on the day?
Occasionally, we may encounter difficulty in obtaining a blood sample from you. There can be various reasons for this, including insufficient hydration, feeling cold, or having undergone another blood test recently. We'll always offer you another appointment so that we can make another attempt at obtaining the sample.
Finding Hey Baby 4D Barnsley
Churchfield Court is located 0.4 miles north of Barnsley Town Centre, offering direct routes to the M1 which provides access to Leeds and Sheffield. We're just 0.7 miles away from Barnsley Hospital and only a short walk from Barnsley railway station! If you're an expectant parent based in Barnsley, Sheffield, Rotherham, Wakefield or Doncaster we're the private ultrasound clinic for you.
Street parking is available directly outside the clinic at a cost of £0.90 for one hour Monday to Saturday and free on Sundays. Also Churchfields car park is adjacent to the clinic charged at £2.20 for 2 hours Monday - Friday and free at weekends. Both are free on Bank Holidays.