Complete blood count (CBC) is the most common and most informative laboratory test that allows you to assess your overall health. Its results help the doctor obtain information about the functioning of various organs and systems, detect inflammation, anemia, and other pathologies in the early stages.
ZAK is used as the main tool of preventive research, prescribed when various diseases are suspected, performed before surgical interventions and during a course of therapy to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
What does a complete blood count show?
The ZAK determines indicators that are key to the proper functioning of the body:
- Hemoglobin (Hb). Indicates the level of oxygen in the blood. Low levels indicate anemia, while high levels indicate blood clotting.
- Red blood cells (RBC) and hematocrit (HCT). Reflect the state of blood formation and hydration. A low HCT can signal anemia, and a high one can indicate dehydration.
- White blood cells (WBC). Tells about the functioning of the immune system. Elevated levels are usually the result of inflammation, an allergic reaction, a bacterial or viral infection. Low levels are seen when the immune system is weakened.
- Platelets (PLT). Responsible for blood clotting. Low concentrations increase the risk of bleeding, while high concentrations increase the likelihood of thrombosis.
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). A nonspecific indicator that reflects the overall level of inflammatory processes in the body. It can indicate the presence of inflammation in the body, autoimmune diseases, infections, and other pathological conditions.
How to prepare for a complete blood count
To obtain the most accurate and reliable results, you must follow some rules:
- blood is donated in the morning (from 8 to 10 am), which is due to daily fluctuations in some indicators;
- The day before donating blood, you should avoid fatty foods and alcoholic beverages, as well as limit physical activity and avoid emotional stress.
If you are taking medication, check with your doctor whether you can take it or whether you should stop taking it for a few days.
Tests are an important tool for monitoring a child's health, but they should always be evaluated by a doctor. Self-medication can be harmful, so if you have any questions, it is better to consult a specialist. In our clinic, we select examinations individually and accompany the family at every stage. Come - we will help take care of your child's health.
Why it is important to have a complete blood count even when you feel well
Most serious diseases are asymptomatic in their early stages. Regular blood tests can detect hidden pathologies before the first symptoms appear, which contributes to successful treatment. In addition, the results of the analysis help the doctor assess the patient's general health and monitor the effectiveness of the prescribed therapy.
People who feel well and have no health problems are recommended to have a complete blood count 1-2 times a year. People over 40, with chronic diseases, taking medications, and during pregnancy will need more frequent monitoring - every 3-6 months or according to the recommendations of the attending physician.
A complete blood count is a simple, fast, and very informative diagnostic method that helps to quickly assess the functioning of the body's vital systems, timely detect hidden diseases, prescribe treatment if necessary, and monitor its effectiveness.
Do not try to evaluate the test results yourself, which can lead to erroneous conclusions and cause unnecessary anxiety. Only a qualified doctor can correctly interpret the test results, taking into account the clinical picture, history and results of other tests, and make the correct diagnosis.