When to have and preparations for your blood test

[Adlucy]

I am sure this has been discussed before. I have my six month blood test next week for my CLL.

It has never been suggested that it should be a fasting one, that I should avoid eating or drinking certain food and drinks beforehand or that it should be at a certain time of day. Could I ask what you do do, please. Thank you for your thoughts.

[Panz]

I personally have always fasted and abstained from all liquids until after my labs as that way they are always taken the same way. I did this on y own but was to,d it was a good way to get a very accurate test. I did it out of concern for the fact I had to drive 150 miles round trip for each and every lab and thus wanted to be prepared for any test they wanted to throw my way. So this has just been the way I have done it for nearly 34 years and it has served me well.

Panz 🙂💕🙏☘️👍🌈

[lexie]

I always fast even though I was told that I don't need to for my 6 month CLL tests. That way I am prepared if they want to do some follow up tests like what happened at my last appointment.

[kitchengardener2]

I usually have my bloods taken as early as I can. I do have breakfast and try to drink lots of water the day before, I find that if I am well hydrated I don't bruise as much. I don't drink much alcohol but avoid any for a few days.

[Fiona1122]

i never thought about it and it has never been mentioned i will ask my clinical team next time I have an appointnent

[Hazel33]

Finding a suitable vein to draw blood has become increasingly difficult. I have been told to drink plenty of water beforehand. I also try to have my blood test mid morning each time. We are all different 😊

[stevesmith1964]

hi

I have monthly bloods for my CLL monitoring have done since diagnosis. Also i had a 40 yr career in laboratory medine. There is no need to change your normal routine for the tests they will do.

[LeoPa]

I always go in a fasted state. Only drink water the morning of the blood draw.

[BeckyLUSA]

I have never fasted before blood draws. Doctor and lab people both say food does not affect any of the blood work done. I would go with what your doctor says. Most important for me is to be hydrated. Makes blood draws easier.

BeckyL USA

[Hidden]

Hi Adlucy

My husband is always told "light fasting" for 8 am blood work. "Nothing after midnight & tea/toast acceptable in morning". That is exactly what they say every time. He always waits though (until it's taken) to eat.

Be well~

Cookie

[CycleWonder]

I make sure to be hydrated and drink only a half cup of coffee. We eat breakfast as usual.

[bayside64]

I found that if I drink only one cup of coffee it affects the results, so I don’t eat or drink anything. I get labs every 2 weeks. I know that water is fine.