{"id":15277,"date":"2018-07-26T16:57:15","date_gmt":"2018-07-26T16:57:15","guid":{"rendered":"https://medartslab.com/?p=15277"},"modified":"2018-07-26T16:57:15","modified_gmt":"2018-07-26T16:57:15","slug":"what-to-expect-during-a-blood-exam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https://medartslab.com/what-to-expect-during-a-blood-exam/","title":{"rendered":"What to Expect During a Blood Exam"},"content":{"rendered":"

Having your blood drawn for a diagnostic or screening exam isn\u2019t anyone\u2019s favorite way to spend part of the day. If this will be your first time, you may feel anxious about <\/span>what to expect<\/span><\/a>. Medical procedures involving needles are a well-known fear to many, for some, an actual phobia, called <\/span>trypanophobia<\/span><\/a>. However, the procedure itself is painless when performed by a skilled phlebotomist (healthcare professionals specially trained to draw blood). As is often the case, the dread felt leading up to the procedure is far worse that the procedure itself.<\/span><\/p>\n

A common problem with the fear of needles is that there are many times when a blood draw will be necessary. Blood draws are an effective way to regularly check your overall health and prevent or diagnose potential complications. It can also determine if you are a candidate for surgery. <\/span><\/p>\n

Prepping for the Test<\/b><\/h3>\n

To help the test go smoother mentally and physically, learn the steps of a blood draw. If you take the time to understand why and how a procedure takes place, you won\u2019t be caught off-guard. A blood draw, also called venipuncture, is a simple procedure usually performed by a nurse or phlebotomist. The site where they will attempt to draw your blood \u2012 at the inside of the elbow or wrist \u2012 will first be cleaned. Then, a tourniquet will be applied around your upper arm to maximize blood in the targeted vein. Finally, a needle will be gently pushed into your vein to collect a blood sample. If you know your veins are hard to find, make sure you stay hydrated \u2012 it makes the veins easier to locate, which means less sticking for you. <\/span><\/p>\n

\"howYou should also know that some tests may require <\/span>fasting for a correct diagnosis<\/span><\/a>. Although uncomfortable, this is crucial in testing for diabetes, anaemia, high cholesterol and liver disease. <\/span>When you eat food or drink alcohol, the food and liquid gets broken down in your stomach and absorbed into the bloodstream, affecting the levels of certain substances in the blood. <\/span><\/p>\n

Often overlooked, fasting also includes forgoing alcohol, coffee and even chewing gum. Smoking is also typically forbidden, but because it leads to catastrophic diseases, we advise you to get the necessary treatment to quit for good, rather than just a 12-hour period. You should also avoid exercising, as it can speed up digestion. If fasting is required, continue taking prescribed medications, unless told otherwise by your doctor. If you are pregnant, fasting is safe, however you can contact your physician for personalized advice. <\/span><\/p>\n

During the Test<\/b><\/h3>\n

Despite our determination, mental preparation can go out the window when we come face-to-face with our fears. Instead of giving in to anxiety, try these <\/span>tips for blood test anxiety<\/span><\/a> or difficult blood draws:<\/span><\/p>\n