Question Blood tests

[Fedup]

I was just wondering about how you approach your blood tests, do you have to fast, for how long, what about taking your medication. For me I fast from midnight but I still take my medication, I am fasting for 12 hours before my blood tests. Mind you the hunger gets to you. Are you told what type of blood test.

 

[Cint]

If they are just testing your blood levels (like your Tegretol checked,level), there is no need to fast. When I go to my endocrinologist and have my A1c level checked, I don't need to fast. There are different reasons for different CBC's, so depending what the reason is for will depend whether one needs to fast or not. I haven't had to have my blood levels taken now that I take Keppra and Topomax except every once in a while, like once a year. But I don't need to fast.

 

[Fedup]

I understand the reasons for different blood tests, like you one test I get done is the CBC but there are others I get done as well which I have to fast for and this is what I am asking, do you fast for a blood test, how long do you fast and do you know what its for as I have found out that some people do not realise what the blood test is they are getting done.

 

[masterjen]

Hi, Fedup;
Is there a way you can contact the lab where you will have the blood drawn to find out if any of the tests you are having done require fasting and the duration of the fast required? Two I have had done in the last year were cholesterol and blood sugar, and both required 12 hour fasting. I was able to work it out so that I had a late dinner then a snack around 10:00 before bed, then to the lab the next morning at 10. That way not too much daytime starvation

 

[Fedup]

I get a few tests done on a regular basis its more routine than anything for me, and no I do not fast for most blood tests but there is one I do fast for and actually do something simillar to you as regards eating. But I do like my food a lot.

 

[valeriedl]

If I have to fast for any type of blood work, epilepsy related or not, it's usually a 12 hour fast and my dr will be the one that tells me to do it. It will usually even be written on the blood work prescription (if that's what it's called) if I need to fast and for how long.

The only thing I can usually have is water but they don't want me to drink much of it. Basically only when I take my meds.

 

[Blonde Angel]

Hmmm
Don't you get the lab request forms personally, and it lists the blood tests to be involved, when those Drs write their medical jargon, can one not request the actual tests to be either explained or written down in prep needed.
If one knows what to expect from the impending blood test there shouldn't be too much stress involved.

 

[Fedup]

Yes I get the request forms personally and told what each test is for and if I have to fast, there is no stress involved for me, I am so used to having blood tests.

Thanks for your replys everybody.

 

[Zolt]

Hey Fed up,

I get my blood checked every time i pickup my meds, every 3 months. I have an open order so i can do it whenever i want. That is for CBC and Alt as well as white blood cell differential. I've never had to fast for it. All tests normally test within range so far.

Only time i had to fast for a blood test when they checked my cholesterol and some other diet related stuff.

Cheers,
Zolt


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