A CBC (Complete Blood Count) test can be quite useful while assessing the overall health of a person. Hence, medical professionals advise individuals to get this test done on a routine basis regardless of whether they are suffering from any symptoms or not.
The results of a CBC test help doctor to diagnose various disorders and medical conditions in time. However, it is understandable to wonder how one can go about preparing for it. In this article, we will be checking out the basics of this blood test and how one can prepare for it. We will also take a look at the CBC test price.
What does a CBC test include?
A CBC test is a report of the status of the blood cells in one’s body. The count, shape, and structure of different components of the blood can help medical professionals to diagnose a variety of conditions.
A CBC test includes checking and analysis of components like hemoglobin and hematocrit in the blood. Other components checked in this test include:
White blood cells
White blood cells are the protecting units of the human body. They are responsible for fighting off any foreign pathogens or alien components that might enter the body and cause any form of destruction. Testing the number of white blood cells in the body can help doctors to diagnose various disorders.
An increased amount of white blood cells can indicate the presence of a pathogen or infection within the body that requires the protection of these cells. A rapid production of these cells might also indicate the presence of cancer.
Similarly, an abnormally low count of white blood cells in the body can imply that the immune system of the body is not strong enough to fight off alien invaders. Such results may imply the presence of autoimmune disorders, bone marrow disorders, and so on. /
Red blood cells
The red blood cells are primarily responsible for the transportation of oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body. They carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to tissues and then carry back carbon dioxide back to the lungs during exhalation.
An abnormally high amount of red blood cells present in the blood can imply the presence of several medical conditions related to kidneys, lungs, and so on. A deficiency of red blood cells in the body can point towards the deficiency of nutrients like Vitamin B12 and iron (leading to anemia).
Platelets
Platelets are responsible for healing wounds on the body. They form clots so that excessive bleeding can be controlled effectively. An abnormally high platelet count in the body without any reasonable explanation can imply the presence of inflammation.
Excess platelets in the blood can also mean that the body is battling cancer or certain severe infections. Similarly, a deficiency of platelets in the bloodstream can lead to autoimmune disorders, infections, uncontrolled bleeding, and so on.
How to prepare for a CBC test?
A CBC is a blood test. Hence, a syringe is inserted into the patient’s arm to draw a small amount of blood from its vein. While there are no strict restrictions that a patient has to follow before taking a CBC test, it is best to consult the doctor for any additional preparations that may be required.
For instance, the doctor might ask their patient to stop taking steroids or certain medications for a small amount of time so that the results of the CBC test are not altered in any way. Fasting is not mandatory for the test; hence one can go for it without much heavy preparation.
What is the CBC test price?
Now that we are clear with all the basics of the CBC test, it is important to touch upon its costs. The CBC test price can start from as low as 150 rs and go up to about 500 to 600 rs. This range is subject to change as per the location of the clinic.
The CBC test price is different in the different regions of the country. For instance, the average price range for it in Delhi is about 350 Rs, while in Pune it is 280 Rs. The price can also change depending on the kind of clinic you choose to go to, and the number of tests included in your package.
Conclusion
The CBC blood test allows one to ensure that the internal health of the body is not hampered in any way. It is one of the best ways to check if their internal organs are functioning well or not, and hence it is advised to not skip this test and get it done on a routine basis.
Hopefully, this article will provide you with everything that you need to know about the CBC blood test, how to prepare for it, and the CBC test price.