Published: 12 Mar 2024

Blood can tell you about your organ function, diet, metabolism, illnesses, and if you have certain diseases.
You likely have lots of questions about the process and results.
A routine blood test consists of getting blood taken at your doctor's office or at a lab. Or, they can explain why you've been "feeling off" for the last few months.
Getting blood taken can be scary for those who've never done it, especially children. In a routine blood test, it might just be to check that nothing has changed since your last healthy test result.That's why doctors encourage their patients to get routine blood work done.
By analyzing the blood, scientists can detect illnesses before it's too late. Usually, the technician, nurse, or doctor will have you sit down on a chair with your feet on the ground.
This might seem scary, but it's quite straightforward. Often you're done in less than five minutes.
What Can Blood Tests Detect? The reasons for getting your blood tested vary. It can tell you hundreds of things about your lifestyle and habits.

Blood tests are used to measure or examine cells, chemicals, proteins, or other substances in the blood. Some of the most common types are troponin and creatine kinase tests. Blood work is often included as part of a regular checkup. This is a group of tests that measure certain chemicals in your blood, including glucose, calcium, and electrolytes.
Blood enzyme tests. A CBC is often included as part of a regular checkup.
Basic metabolic panel. There are many types of blood enzyme tests. Blood testing, also known as blood work, is one of the most common types of lab tests. Blood tests are also used to:
Help diagnose certain diseases and conditions
Monitor a chronic disease or condition, such as diabetes or high cholesterol
Find out if treatment for a disease is working
Check how well your organs are working. These tests are used to find out if you've had a heart attack and/or if your heart muscle is damaged.
Blood tests to check for heart disease. Enzymes are substances that control chemical reactions in your body. Common ones include:
Complete blood count (CBC). These include cholesterol tests and a triglyceride test.
Blood clotting tests, also known as a coagulation panel. Your organs include your liver, kidneys, heart, and thyroid.
Help diagnose bleeding or clotting disorders
Find out if your immune system is having trouble fighting infections
What are the different types of blood tests?
There are many different types of blood tests. This test measures different parts of your blood, including red and white blood cells, platelets, and hemoglobin. These tests can show if you have a disorder that causes too much bleeding or too much clotting.