What Healthy Blood Cells Mean for Your Body…
If your doctor orders a Complete Blood Count (CBC), you may be wondering what the test is used for. What information will it reveal? Why has your doctor ordered it? What do healthy blood cells mean for your body?
A Complete Blood Count is a common blood test used to measure your body’s health. The blood test can detect new underlying medical conditions, monitor the management of existing disorders, or just get a snapshot of your overall health. Your blood is made of several different materials, including:
- Red blood cells, which carry oxygen from the lungs to the organs and various tissues
- White blood cells, which help the body fight off infections
- Hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells
- Platelets, which aid in blood clotting
- CBCs also measure Hematocrit, which is the percentage of red blood cells in the bloodstream
While a CBC may be ordered as part of a routine screening or examination, a CBC may also be ordered to diagnose the underlying cause of symptoms such as bruising, dizziness, fatigue, fever, joint pain, or low or high blood pressure. Complete Blood Counts can also be used as a tool for measuring the effectiveness of medications.
The results of your CBC can alert you and your doctor to medical conditions such as anemia, mineral deficiencies, heart disease, an autoimmune disorder or even cancer. When you receive your results, you will be given a normal range to compare your numbers to. Any numbers that fall outside of this range may warrant further testing or treatment. Healthy blood cells move oxygen and nutrients around the body, maintain body temperature, ward off infection, and prevent blood loss. Healthy blood is the basis for a healthy body, so knowing your CBC numbers is an important place to start in understanding and supporting your overall health.
At Westgate Family Physicians, our focus is providing respectful, compassionate care for your health needs. Whether it’s a routine checkup, a sudden symptom that has you worried or an ongoing diagnosis, our doctors and staff are here to support you in your health journey. To schedule an appointment today, call (864) 574-0070.