Blood Test
A blood test is a routine procedure where a small sample of your blood is taken to check how your body is functioning. It is used by doctors to monitor your overall health and can detect issues such as infections, nutritional deficiencies, or hormone imbalances. Blood tests also measure things like blood cells, platelets, electrolytes, and proteins. They are often part of a regular physical exam.
The Teen
Connection
Why does it matter for teens?
It is important for teens to understand how blood tests work as it is one of the most common tools doctors use to diagnose medical diseases or conditions. Especially for teens, blood tests can help detect conditions such as anemia, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or even certain infections and cancers. If a teen is diagnosed with one of these conditions, regular blood tests are important to managing and tracking their health. Blood tests also show whether your body has the antibodies needed to fight off infections.
How It Affects You
“Ever had to give a tiny tube of blood at your doctor’s visit?”
“Wonder why they needed it even if you feel fine?”
“Or got told your iron or sugar levels were off?”
So, that’s where blood tests come in…
Blood tests reveal things you can’t see or feel right away such as low iron (anemia), high blood sugar (diabetes), or hormone imbalances. If your body is not showing symptoms, a simple blood draw can catch problems early and prevent them from becoming serious.
Whether it’s checking for an infection, making sure your body has plenty of vitamins, or keeping track of a condition like thyroid, blood tests are vital for doctors to get a deeper look inside your health.
Glossary
Hormone Imbalances
Happens where there is too little or too much of a chemical messenger (hormone)