Blood tests provide valuable health insights, but necessity varies. Personal health and history dictate which tests are essential. Quality over quantity.
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A CBC measures blood components like RBCs, WBCs, and platelets, aiding in detecting various conditions.
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Basic metabolic panel assesses glucose, kidney, liver, and thyroid function, plus electrolytes.
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A lipid panel, which may require fasting beforehand, measures cholesterol and triglyceride levels. High or borderline high results can indicate an increased risk of heart disease.
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A1C tests gauge 3-month blood sugar averages, aiding diabetes diagnosis. No fasting required but may lack Medicare coverage.
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A TSH test detects thyroid issues: it's treatable but affects all organs, causing symptoms like weight changes, fatigue, and sleep problems.
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Vitamin D testing debated. Proponents like Kopecky cite deficiency; Critics, like Bairey Merz, question supplement benefits due to trials.