Blood tests

[Splinters50]

Can any one read blood results? What is it that stands out?

[Lolabridge]

I’m no expert and I’m sure others will have more information for you. But as far as the RA is concerned it’s the inflammation markers I look at first: ESR, CRP. And, if they’ve been tested, the RF and anti-CCP.

Other than that, I look at anything that’s outside the normal range or on the margins.

[Kerensa21]

No expert either but labtests online is a really good site for explaining what they all mean labtestsonline.org.uk 😊

[Neonkittie17]

It often tells you the what the main tests are in your little treatment monitoring book .. that’s if you are issued with one. Over the years I’ve got to know since 1995 what most things are but still some I have to look up.

[oldtimer]

It's often more complex than it appears... normal values for that test at that laboratory can be given, but need to be taken in the context of other medical conditions, treatments and what the trend of the tests is.

For example, if this is the third test showing below normal levels of WBC (white blood cells) with a trend towards being fewer each time and there is no other likely cause for low WBC, you would regard it much more seriously than a one off test after a viral infection (which probably doesn't matter).

It's nice to have the test results and to see what the trends are yourself and over the years you become expert at interpreting your own results. You may find, for example, that your inflammatory markers (ESR or PCR) never rise much, or are always raised...

[allanah]

You can actually look up blood tests on line. They check your inflammation rates ( ESR ) your kidney function ( urea and ekectrolytes) and liver function ( lft) to make sure the meds are agreeing with you. They often check iron (hb) levels and WBC white blood cell levels to make sure you're not over suppressed. Oh and dont panick ....some of our tests are meant to be different to the " norm" that's where the experts come in !

It's interesting to look online.

[madme1]

They also look at your thyroid function as this can be a marker for the start of RA. Liver profile to check your rate of liver function as well as full bone profile.