A Full Blood Count (FBC) is a comprehensive blood test that evaluates key components of your blood, offering valuable insights into your overall health. Here's a breakdown of what each component measures and its significance:
- Red Blood Cells (RBC):
RBCs carry oxygen from the lungs to tissues and remove carbon dioxide. Low RBC count may indicate anemia, while high RBC count could suggest dehydration or heart disease. - White Blood Cells (WBC):
WBCs are the immune system's first line of defense. High WBC levels may indicate infection or inflammation, while low levels could suggest a weakened immune system or bone marrow problems. - Hemoglobin (Hb):
Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. Low hemoglobin levels are often linked to anemia, while high levels may be due to dehydration or lung disease. - Hematocrit (Hct):
Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. Low hematocrit can indicate anemia, while elevated levels may be a sign of dehydration or excessive red cell production. - Platelets:
Platelets help the blood clot, preventing excessive bleeding. Low platelet counts can lead to easy bruising or bleeding disorders, while high counts may increase the risk of clotting.
Each component of the FBC provides specific information about your blood health, helping to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions like anemia, infections, and clotting issues. Regular FBC testing can catch early signs of health problems, allowing timely treatment and intervention.
Recommended Tests:
- Ferritin
Measures iron storage in the body, which is important in evaluating anemia and other blood disorders.
Ferritin Test - Vitamin B12
Assesses levels of Vitamin B12, which is essential for red blood cell production and overall energy levels.
Vitamin B12 Test
