Blood Test Results:
The complete blood count (CBC) is a test that evaluates the cells that circulate in blood. Blood consists of three types of cells suspended in fluid called plasma: white blood cells (WBCs), red blood cells (RBCs), and platelets (PLTs). They are produced and mature primarily in the bone marrow and, under normal circumstances, are released into the bloodstream as needed
A CBC is typically performed using an automated instrument that measures various parameters, including counts of the cells that are present in a person's sample of blood. The results of a CBC can provide information about not only the number of cell types but also can give an indication of the physical characteristics of some of the cells.
- Evaluation of white blood cells: WBC count; may or may not include a WBC differential
- Evaluation of red blood cells: RBC count, hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct) and RBC indices, which includes mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and red cell distribution width (RDW). The RBC evaluation may or may not include reticulocyte count.
- Evaluation of platelets: platelet count; may or may not include mean platelet volume (MPV) and/or platelet distribution width (PDW)
Significant abnormalities in one or more of the blood cell populations can indicate the presence of one or more conditions. Typically other tests are performed to help determine the cause of abnormal results. Often, this requires visual confirmation by examining a blood smear under a microscope. A trained laboratorian can evaluate the appearance and physical characteristics of the blood cells, such as size, shape and color, noting any abnormalities that may be present. Any additional information is noted and reported to the healthcare provider. This information gives the health practitioner additional clues as to the cause of abnormal CBC results.
White Blood Cells-There are five different types of WBCs, also called leukocytes, that the body uses to maintain a healthy state and to fight infections or other causes of injury. They are neutrophils, lymphocytes, basophils, eosinophils, and monocytes. They are present in the blood at relatively stable numbers. These numbers may temporarily shift higher or lower depending on what is going on in the body. For instance, an infection can stimulate the body to produce a higher number of neutrophils to fight off bacterial infection. With allergies, there may be an increased number of eosinophils. An increased number of lymphocytes may be produced with a viral infection. In certain disease states, such as leukemia, abnormal (immature or mature) white cells rapidly multiply, increasing the WBC count.
Red Blood Cells- are also called erythrocytes, are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream as they mature. They contain hemoglobin, a protein that transports oxygen throughout the body. The typical lifespan of an RBC is 120 days; thus the bone marrow must continually produce new RBCs to replace those that age and disintegrate or are lost through bleeding. A number of conditions can affect the production of new RBCs and/or their lifespan, in addition to those conditions that may result in significant bleeding.
The CBC determines the number of RBCs and amount of hemoglobin present, the proportion of blood made up of RBCs (hematocrit), and whether the population of RBCs appears to be normal. RBCs normally are uniform with minimal variations in size and shape; however, significant variations can occur with conditions such as vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies, iron deficiency, and with a variety of other conditions. If the concentration of red blood cells and/or the amount of hemoglobin in the blood drops below normal, a person is said to have anemia and may have symptoms such as fatigue and weakness. Much less frequently, there may be too many RBCs in the blood (erythrocytosis or polycythemia). In extreme cases, this can interfere with the flow of blood through the small veins and arteries.
Platelets- are also called thrombocytes, are special cell fragments that play an important role in normal blood clotting. A person who does not have enough platelets may be at an increased risk of excessive bleeding and bruising. An excess of platelets can cause excessive clotting or, if the platelets are not functioning properly, excessive bleeding. The CBC measures the number and size of platelets present.
- WBC (White Blood Cell)This test measures the numbers, shapes, and sizes of various types of white blood cells listed above. The WBC differential count also shows if the numbers of different cells are in proper proportion to each other. Irregularities in this test could signal an infection, inflammation, autoimmune disorders, anemia, or other health concerns.
- Leukocyte (A Type Of White Blood Cell)
4,300 to 10,800 cmm
ResultsToo Low = Could Be A Zinc, Selimium, Garlic Or Pro-Biotic Deficiency
ResultsToo High = Could Be Caused By An Infection, Smoking, Stress, Immune Disorder Or Cancer
- Neutrophils (A Type Of White Blood Cell)
40% to 60% of the total
ResultsToo Low = Could Be A Zinc, Selimium, Garlic Or Pro-Biotic Deficiency
ResultsToo High = Could Be Caused By An Infection, Smoking, Stress, Immune Disorder Or Cancer
- Lymphocytes (A Type Of White Blood Cell)
20% to 40%
ResultsToo Low = Could Be A Zinc, Selimium, Garlic Or Pro-Biotic Deficiency
ResultsToo High = Could Be Caused By An Infection, Smoking, Stress, Immune Disorder Or Cancer
- Monocytes (A Type Of White Blood Cell)
2% to 8%
ResultsToo Low = Could Be A Zinc, Selimium, Garlic Or Pro-Biotic Deficiency
ResultsToo High = Could Be Caused By An Infection, Smoking, Stress, Immune Disorder Or Cancer
- Eosinophils (A Type Of White Blood Cell)
1% to 4%
ResultsToo Low = Could Be A Zinc, Selimium, Garlic Or Pro-Biotic Deficiency
ResultsToo High = Could Be Caused By An Infection, Smoking, Stress, Immune Disorder Or Cancer
- Basophils (A Type Of White Blood Cell)
0.5% to 1%
ResultsToo Low = Could Be A Zinc, Selimium, Garlic Or Pro-Biotic Deficiency
ResultsToo High = Could Be Caused By An Infection, Smoking, Stress, Immune Disorder Or Cancer
- RBC (Red Blood Cell) erythrocyte count
We have millions of red blood cells in our bodies, and this test measures the number of RBCs in a specific amount of blood. It helps us determine the total number of RBCs and gives us an idea of their lifespan, but it does not indicate where problems originate. So if there are irregularities, other tests will be required.
ResultsToo Low = Cause Could Be Fatigue, Dizziness, Anemia - Increase Vitamin A, B6, B9, B11, B12, Copper or Iron
ResultsToo High = Decrease Supplementation Of The Above
- Hematocrit (Hct)
Useful for diagnosing anemia, this test determines how much of the total blood volume in the body consists of red blood cells.
ResultsToo Low = Insufficient Supply Of Red Blood Cells, A Drop In White Cell Count
ResultsToo High = Possible Dehydration Or Other Blood Issue
- Hemoglobin (Hgb)
Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, which makes blood bright red. More importantly, hemoglobin delivers oxygen from the lungs to the entire body; then it returns to the lungs with carbon dioxide, which we exhale. Healthy hemoglobin levels vary by gender. Low levels of hemoglobin may indicate anemia.
ResultsToo Low = Possible Anemia, Blood Loss Or Your Body Produces Too Few Red Blood Cells
ResultsToo High = Red Blood Cell Production Increases Due To Low Low Blood Oxygen Or A Bone Marrow Dysfunction
- Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)
This test measures the average volume of red blood cells, or the average amount of space each red blood cell fills. Irregularities could indicate anemia and/or chronic fatigue syndrome.
ResultsToo Low = Possible Form Of Anemia
ResultsToo High = Indicates That The Red Blood Cells Are Larger Than The Average Normal Cells
- Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH)
This test measures the average amount of hemoglobin in the typical red blood cell.
ResultsToo Low = Cause Is A Possible Iron Deficiency Anemia
ResultsToo High = Possible B6, B9, B12 Deficiency Anemia
- Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)
The MCHC test reports the average concentration of hemoglobin in a specific amount of red blood cells.
ResultsToo Low = Possible Iron Deficiency Anemia
ResultsToo High = Cause Is A Form Of Anemia
- Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW or RCDW)
With this test, we get an idea of the shape and size of red blood cells. In this case, "width" refers to a measurement of distribution, not the size of the cells.
ResultsToo Low = Anemia Caused By Too Few Red Blood Cells
ResultsToo High = Means That The Red Blood Cells Vary A Lot In Size.
- Platelet Count
Platelets are small portions of cells involved in blood clotting. The number of platelets may also indicate a health condition.
ResultsToo Low = Could Cause Severe Bleeding
ResultsToo High = Could Cause Severe Blood Clotting
- Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)
This test measures and calculates the average size of platelets.
ResultsToo Low = Could Cause Severe Bleeding
ResultsToo High = Could Indicate A Number Of Different Conditions, Including Cancer, Anemia Or Reaction To Medications
- ALT (alanine aminotransferase)
This test looks at levels of the liver enzyme ALT. When all's well with your liver, your score on this test should be within range.
ResultsToo Low = Indicates That There Is No Liver Disorder
ResultsToo High = May Indicate Liver Damage.
- Albumin
A protein made by the liver, albumin levels can be an indicator of liver or kidney problems.
ResultsToo Low = Could Be Due To Malnutrition, liver Disease, Kidney Disease Or A Stress Response.
ResultsToo High = Could Be Caused By Dehydration Or A Shortage Of Vitamin A
- A/G Ratio (albumin/globulin ratio) or total protein test.
Healthy ratio: a bit over 1, favoring albumin. There are two types of protein in your blood - albumin (see above) and globulin. The A/G ratio test compares levels of these proteins with one another. Elevated protein levels could indicate a health condition in need of attention.
ResultsToo Low = Could Be Caused By Low Iron
ResultsToo High = Could Indicate Liver Disease
- Alkaline Phosphatase
This enzyme is involved in both liver and bone, so elevations may indicate problems with the liver or bone-related disease.
ResultsToo Low = Could Indicate Malnutrition, Supplementing With B Vitamins And Vitamin C Could Help
ResultsToo High = A Bile Duct Restriction, Hepatitis, Cirrhosis Or Cancer Could Be The Cause
- AST (aspartate aminotransferase)
This enzyme is found in heart and liver tissue, so elevations suggest problems may be occurring in one or both of those areas.
ResultsToo Low = Low Levels Are Good. It Indicates That Liver, Heart, Pancreas And Kidneys Are Functioning
ResultsToo High = Could Indicate An Inflamed Liver
- Bilirubin
This provides information about liver and kidney functions, problems in bile ducts, and anemia.
ResultsToo Low = Could Be Affected Adversely By Medications Like Phenobarbital, Theophylline Or High Vitamin C
ResultsToo High = Could Be Caused By Jaundice And Itching
- BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen)
This is another measure of kidney and liver functions. High values may indicate a problem with kidney function. A number of medications and a diet high in protein can also raise BUN levels.
ResultsToo Low = Cause Is Usually Overhydration
ResultsToo High = Indicates Some Degree Of Kidney Damage
- BUN/Creatinine Ratio
Healthy ratio of BUN to creatinine: 10:1 to 20:1 (men and older individuals may be a bit higher). This test shows if kidneys are eliminating waste properly. High levels of creatinine, a by-product of muscle contractions, are excreted through the kidneys and suggest reduced kidney function.
ResultsToo Low = Usually Not A Concern
ResultsToo High = Indicates Some Degree Of Kidney Damage
- Calcium
Too much calcium in the bloodstream could indicate kidney problems; overly active thyroid or parathyroid glands; certain types of cancer, including lymphoma; problems with the pancreas; or a deficiency of vitamin D.
ResultsToo Low = Could Indicate Kidney Failure, Malnutrition Or Alcoholism
ResultsToo High = Could Indicate A Thyroid Condition Called Hypercalcemia
- Chloride
This mineral is often measured as part of an electrolyte panel. It also could be a red flag for dehydration, multiple myeloma, or adrenal gland dysfunction.
ResultsToo Low = Possible Dehydration, Excessive Sweating Or Heart Failure
ResultsToo High = Possible Bromide Poisoning, Glaucoma Medications, Diabetes Kidney Problems, High Blood Sodium Or Acidic Body
- Creatinine
The kidneys process this waste product, so elevations could indicate a problem with kidney function.
ResultsToo Low = Can Be Caused By A Diet Low In Protein
ResultsToo High = Can Lead To Kidney Failure
- Phosphorus
Phosphorus plays an important role in bone health and is related to calcium levels. Too much phosphorus could indicate a problem with kidneys or the parathyroid gland. Alcohol abuse, long-term antacid use, excessive intake of diuretics or vitamin D, and malnutrition can also elevate phosphorus levels.
ResultsToo Low = Possible Cause Anorexia, Diabetes, Alcoholism, Celiacs And Chrones
ResultsToo High = Kidney Disease, Too Many Enamas, Too Much Vitamin D, Not Enough Calcium Or Magnesium
- Potassium
This mineral is essential for relaying nerve impulses, maintaining proper muscle functions, and regulating heartbeats. Diuretics, drugs that are often taken for high blood pressure, can cause low levels of potassium.
ResultsToo Low = Can Cause Muscle Cramps
ResultsToo High = Kidney Disease Is A Common Cause. Cut Back On Supplementation
- Sodium
Another member of the electrolyte family, the mineral sodium helps your body balance water levels and helps with nerve impulses and muscle contractions. Irregularities in sodium levels may indicate dehydration; disorders of the adrenal glands; excessive intake of salt, corticosteroids, or pain-relieving medications; or problems with the liver or kidneys.
ResultsToo Low = If The Sodium Level Drops Too Low It Can Be Life Threatning
ResultsToo High = Indicates Dehydration, Excessive Salt Consumption, And Some Prescriptions
The lipid panel is a collection of tests measuring different types of cholesterol and triglycerides (fats) in your bloodstream.
- Total Cholesterol
General rules (best to worst) Healthy = Below 200 mg/dL (below 5.18 mmol/L) = Borderline high 200 to 239 mg/dL (5.2 to 6.2 mmol/L) = High Above 240 mg/dL (above 6.2 mmol/L). This test measures combined levels of both LDL (bad) and HDL (good) cholesterol. The test may be done simply to record an individual's cholesterol levels or for comparison purposes (e.g., to determine if cholesterol-lowering medications or nutrients are working). Lab Results Vary
ResultsToo Low = Could Indicate Cancer, Depression, Or Anxiety
ResultsToo High = Can Be Controlled By A Change In Diet And Exercise
- Triglycerides
These fats are found in the bloodstream and may contribute to heart disease and other health problems. Lab Results Vary
ResultsToo Low = Could Be Caused By A Low Fat Diet, Malnutrition, Hyperthyroidism Or Certain Drugs
ResultsToo High = Can Be Controlled By A Change In Diet And Exercise
- HDL (Good) Cholesterol
General rules: = Best Above 60 mg/dL = Poor Below 40 mg/dL for men; below 50 mg/dL for women. Lab Results Vary
ResultsToo Low = Could Indicate Cancer, Depression, Or Anxiety
ResultsToo High = Can Be Controlled By A Change In Diet And Exercise
- Total Cholesterol/HDL ratio
Optimal Ratio of 3.5 to 1 = Healthy Ratio of 5 to 1 or Lower. Lab Results Vary
ResultsToo Low = Could Indicate Cancer, Depression, Or Anxiety
ResultsToo High = Can Be Controlled By A Change In Diet And Exercise
- Calcium
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Calcium, Magnesium, Or Vitamin D Consumption Is Too Low
ResultsToo High = Possible Causes Overactive Parathyroid Glands, Cancer, Dehydration Or Lack Of Activity
- Chloride
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Low Sodium Levels, Exessive Sweating, Dehydration Or Congestive Heart Failure
ResultsToo High = Possible Electrolite Imbalance
- Chromium
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Possible Cause Is High Cholesterol, Glacoma, Low White Cell Count Or Osteoporosis
ResultsToo High = Possible Cause Is Low Blood Sugar, Stomach, Kidney Or Liver Problems
- Copper
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Possible Cause Could Be Anemia Or A Low White Blood Cell Count
ResultsToo High = Possible Cause Of Diarhea And Vomiting
- Fluoride
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Possible Cause Drinking Unfluoridated Water
ResultsToo High = Can Caus Weakend Bones And Kidney Damage
- Iodine
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Major Cause Of Goiter. Supplement With Potassium Iodide
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplementation
- Iron
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Can Cause Anemia
ResultsToo High = Remove And Discard Blood
- Magnesium
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Can Cause Muscle Cramps And Organ Deficiency
ResultsToo High = Can Cause Kidney Problems. Cut Your Supplementation
- Manganese
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Can Cause Abnormal Metabolism Of Carbohydrate And Fat
ResultsToo High = Can Cause Muscle Cramps, Headaches Or Hearing Loss
- Molybdenum
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Can Cause Reduced Appetite, Tachycardia, Blindness And Coma. Need Supplementation
ResultsToo High = Rare But Could Be Caused By Copper Deficiency
- Phosphorus
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Could Cause Bone Pain, Loss Of Appatite, Muscle Weakness Or Weight Problems
ResultsToo High = Could Cause Calcium And Phosphorus Deposits In The Arteries
- Potassium
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Muscle Cramps, Weakness, Fatigue Or Constipation
ResultsToo High = Levels Above 6 Can Be Life Threatening. Stop Any Potassium Supplementation
- Selenium
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Can Result In Congestive Heart Failure. Muscle Weakness And Pain
ResultsToo High = Can Cause Skin Rashes, Nausea, Fatigue, Diarrhea, Discolored Teeth, And Nervous System Problems.
- Sodium
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Cause Can Be Too Much Water Intake, Kidney Failure, Cirrosis Or Heart Failure
ResultsToo High = Cause Can Be Drinking To Little Water, Sweating, Having Diarrhea, Vomiting, Using Diuretics
- Zinc
Lab Results Vary From Lab To Lab
ResultsToo Low = Can Cause Impaired Immune System, Hair Loss, Diarrhea, Low Testosterone Production,
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplementation
- Vitamin A (Retinol)
Is a fat soluble vitamin and is stored in the bady.
ResultsToo Low = Need To Increase Supplementation Through Diet Or Vitamin Supplements. Can Effect The Eyes
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplementation If Too High
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)
Is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body and requires daily replentishment, as it is excreted in the urine.
ResultsToo Low = Could Cause Beriberi From Eating White Rice Or Alcoholism. Need Suplementation
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplemtation If Too High
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body and requires daily replentishment, as it is excreted in the urine.
ResultsToo Low = If Missing From Diet Then Supplementation Is Needed
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplemtation If Too High
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body and requires daily replentishment, as it is excreted in the urine.
ResultsToo Low = If Missing From Diet Then Supplementation Is Needed
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplemtation If Too High
- Vitamin B4 (Adenine)
Is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body and requires daily replentishment, as it is excreted in the urine.
ResultsToo Low = If Missing From Diet Then Supplementation Is Needed
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplemtation If Too High
- Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body and requires daily replentishment, as it is excreted in the urine.
ResultsToo Low = If Missing From Diet Then Supplementation Is Needed
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplemtation If Too High
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body and requires daily replentishment, as it is excreted in the urine.
ResultsToo Low = If Missing From Diet Then Supplementation Is Needed
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplemtation If Too High
- Vitamin B7 (Biotin)
Is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body and requires daily replentishment, as it is excreted in the urine.
ResultsToo Low = If Missing From Diet Then Supplementation Is Needed
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplemtation If Too High
- Vitamin B8 (Inositol)
Is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body and requires daily replentishment, as it is excreted in the urine.
ResultsToo Low = If Missing From Diet Then Supplementation Is Needed
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplemtation If Too High
- Vitamin B9 (Folate)
Is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body and requires daily replentishment, as it is excreted in the urine.
ResultsToo Low = Can Cause Anemia, If Missing From Diet Then Supplementation Is Needed
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplemtation If Too High
- Vitamin B10 (Paba)
Is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body and requires daily replentishment, as it is excreted in the urine.
ResultsToo Low = If Missing From Diet Then Supplementation Is Needed
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplemtation If Too High
- Vitamin B11 (Pteryl-hepta-glutamic acid) (Folic Acid)
Is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body and requires daily replentishment, as it is excreted in the urine.
ResultsToo Low = Can Cause Anemia, If Missing From Diet Then Supplementation Is Needed
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplemtation If Too High
- Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin)
Is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body and requires daily replentishment, as it is excreted in the urine.
ResultsToo Low = Can Cause Anemea, If Missing From Diet Then Supplementation Is Needed
ResultsToo High = Adults Should Consume 2.4 Micrograms Of Vitamin B12 Daily. Cut Back On Supplemtation
- Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body and requires daily replentishment, as it is excreted in the urine.
ResultsToo Low = If Missing From Diet, Then Supplementation Is Needed
ResultsToo High = Cut Back On Supplemtation If Too High
- Vitamin D3 (25OH test)
Is a fat soluble vitamin and is stored in the bady. Too little vitamin D can put you at risk for broken bones, heart disease, cancer, and a host of other ailments. Our bodies can make vitamin D, but only when bare skin, free of sunblock and lotions, is exposed to sunlight. And even then, people of color and older individuals may not be able to manufacture sufficient quantities for optimal health. The best way to determine if you need supplements is to have a vitamin D test, known as 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Here again, doctors don't always agree on how to interpret the results. My preference is to see readings in the normal range.
ResultsToo Low = Under 60 Increase Vitamin D3 To About 60 To 80
ResultsToo High = Over 100 Decrease Vitamin D3 To About 80
- Vitamin E
Is a fat soluble vitamin and is stored in the bady
ResultsToo Low = If Missing From Diet Then, Supplementation Is Needed
ResultsToo High = Decreased Risk For Alzheimers
- Vitamin K
Is a fat soluble vitamin and is stored in the bady
ResultsToo Low = Supplement With Diet Or Take Vitamin K Supplements
ResultsToo High = Stop All Vitamin K Supplements
While not part of the standard blood panel, some doctorsI often order thyroid tests for patients, especially if they report fatigue and weight gain, or weight loss and feelings of nervousness or hyperactivity. Some physicians dismiss borderline low or high tests, but these can be very helpful for identifying problems with the thyroid gland. Here are the ranges to look for in thyroid tests. If your test shows you are below the minimum numbers, you may be suffering from hypothyroidism, or low thyroid. If your scores are above the normal range, you may have an overly active thyroid, or hyperthyroidism. In either case, your physician can advise you on appropriate medication.
- Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) (TSH)
(TSH) 0.3 to 3)
ResultsToo Low = Hypothiroidism
ResultsToo High = Hyperthroidism
- Total T4 (total thyroxine)
4.5 to 12.5
ResultsToo Low = Malnutrition, Iodine Deficiency Or A Pituitary Problem
ResultsToo High = High Levels Of Iodine, Protein Or Germ Cell Tumors
- (Free T4 (free thyroxine)
0.7 to 2.0
ResultsToo Low = Hypothiroidism
ResultsToo High = Hyperthroidism
- Total T3 (total triiodothyronine)
80 to 220 (T3) Is Made By The Thyroid And Uses Selenium, Zinc And Iodine To Do So
ResultsToo Low = Hypothiroidism Or Starvation From An Illness
ResultsToo High = Hyperthroidism Or Possible Goiter
- Free T3 (free triiodothyronine)
2.3 to 4.2 Is Only About One Tenth Of A % of The Total T3
ResultsToo Low = Hypothiroidism
ResultsToo High = Hyperthroidism
- Reverse T3 (free triiodothyronine)
90 to 350 pg/ml (Optimal Range 95 To 345)
ResultsToo Low = Low Levels Could Show Mild Stress
ResultsToo High = High Levels Show Extreme Stress, Such As Major Trauma, Surgery Or Severs Chronic Stress
There are quite a few more tests available, but the ones included here are among the most common.
To get accurate readings, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions in preparing for tests. You may, for example, be asked not to eat and to drink only water for anywhere from a few hours to 12 hours beforehand. Please follow these instructions, or your results may be skewed, requiring additional tests or even unnecessary medications.
If you don't understand something in your results, remember it's okay to ask questions. Doctors are busy people, but you are entitled to the information. If your doctor can't provide it, ask the nurse or physician's assistant for help.
Knowing where you stand with these important parameters is essential for being proactive and owning your own health.
