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DNA gender blood test: Blood is the fluid that is essential for our survival. These 5 liters of this red liquid circulating in our body enable us to function, breathe, heal, and protect ourselves. The blood transports the oxygen we breathe in through our lungs to the various parts of our bodies. It also comprises multiple components that allow our body to protect itself from numerous diseases.

Components of blood

So what are these components of blood? And how they are necessary for our body. Let's review this basic biology topic quickly.

First off, there is the plasma that is all the nutrients and minerals being carried out in the body through the blood circulation. It is essential for the body's normal function as it has all the essential nutrients that are vital for survival. Secondly, there are red blood cells. These cells have an important component in them, hemoglobin. This hemoglobin binds with the oxygen in the lungs and then carries it to all the cells in the body through its circulation.

One thing to remember is that this circulation is done with the help of the heart. It pumps the blood to the last cell of the body.

The military of the body is also present in the blood. We call them white blood cells. We won't get into the details, but in laymen's terms, it jumps into action whenever there is a foreign object in the bloodstream. It rings an alarm in the body that results in inflammation and fever. It is a defense mechanism of the blood to help prevent any escalation of the situation.

Let's consider this. For instance, you get a paper cut. It stings and bleeds for a second, but after a bit, the blood stops seeping out. Ever wonder how or why? Well, the credit for stopping your blood from flowing out of your body goes to another component in your blood, namely, platelets. These platelets detect whenever there is blood seeping out of the body and start accumulating on the damaged part to patch up the hole. Therefore, the blood clots and the bleeding eventually stop.

What is a blood test?

The term "blood test" is pretty self-explanatory. It is a test that evaluates and examines the composition of your blood and looks for any irregularities which may indicate something might be wrong. For instance, if you have an infection, your white blood cells will be acting up. Therefore, it can be seen in your blood test report that your WBC count has spiked, indicating that you might have an infection.

However, blood comprises much more than just plasma, WBCs, RBCs, or platelets. Anything that you consume eventually shows up in your blood. There are tests that can test your blood for the presence of narcotics. This blood test is an immense help to filter out sportsmen and athletes who might boost their performance through drugs.

Some standard tests that help doctors and physicians identify the underlying cause of numerous symptoms include a complete blood count that verifies if all the essential components of blood are in adequate quantity. Moreover, there are other tests specifically for each of these components. For instance, the Pro-thrombin test is a blood test that examines the time it takes for the blood to clot.

Some other tests that can help find potentially fatal tests include:

Hemoglobin A1C test

This test helps identify the Diabetes Mellitus condition

Lipid test

It is another blood test that lets physicians identify any potential cardiac risks the patient might be at. It also identifies the cholesterol levels in the blood.

Culture test

It is one of the very critical tests that lets doctors figure out the reason behind the patient's current condition. This culture test identifies which bacteria or virus is causing the symptoms in the patient. After positively identifying the pathogens, the doctor can move on from the empiric treatment and can start with the best course of action.

Liver function test

This test is also done by analyzing the blood composition. In addition, this test examines the liver's functioning and tells whether the liver is in perfect condition or is functioning under stress.

How to prepare for a blood test

Blood testing is a straightforward procedure. A laboratory operative draws your blood through a syringe, and that's pretty much everything there is to it. However, you still need to make sure of certain things before getting the test done.

Consult your doctor

You need to consult your doctor for various reasons. For example, you might be on some medications that may alter your blood screen. So, it is best to consult your doctor before going for the test. The doctor may advise you to either stop the medications till the test or the medicines will not do much to the test.

Another reason a doctor can help you is by letting you know if you need to fast before these specific tests.

Take plenty of fluids.

If you are going to have multiple blood tests, it is best to consume plenty of fluids. It will help you not feel weak or disoriented after your blood drawing as it may make you a bit dizzy.

Avoid certain activities

It is best to refrain from consuming alcohol and other narcotics before a blood screening. Most doctors also forbid their patients to not perform any strenuous activities or indulge in sexual acts.