How to Interpret a Lab Test Result
Waiting on any type of medical lab test result can be a stressful and scary process. Often when the lab test results do come back they are confusing and hard to read. Usually a doctor will interpret the results to you but sometimes they can be in a hurry and forget. This article will tell you how to interpret a lab test result.
- Check your white blood cell count to make sure it is normal. A normal white blood cell count is between 4,500 to 1,000 per cubic millimeter of blood. If your white blood cell count is lower than normal, it could indicate that you have an infection or other health problem.
- Check your red blood cell count to make sure it is normal. A normal red blood cell count for a male is between 4.5 to 5.9 million per cubic millimeter. The normal red blood cell count for a female is between 4.0 to 5.3 million per cubic millimeter. An abnormal red blood cell count can indicate an infection or other illness.
- Check your hemoglobin level. The average hemoglobin level for a male is between 14.0 to 18.0 g/dl. The average hemoglobin level for a female is between 12.0 to 16.0 g/dl. A doctor may request that you fast before taking a hemoglobin test, as the food you eat can effect the results.
- Look at your cholesterol levels. A healthy cholesterol level should be below 200 mg/dl. If your cholesterol level is higher than normal, it could indicate that you are not eating healthy food. A doctor may put you on a diet to bring your cholesterol level down to a safe level.
- Find your mean cell volume. The mean cell volume should be between 80 to 96. A higher than normal mean cell volume could mean a folic acid deficiency or other illness.
- Check the lab test results for any additional notes from your doctor. This may help explain the results or give you more information about any illnesses or infections you may have. If you have read over your test results and can not interpret them, you may want to call your doctor and make an appointment to discuss the lab test.