Common Laboratory Test Results – When to Take Them Seriously

 

Many laboratory abnormalities are mild and temporary, but some results require prompt medical attention.

🩸 Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Take it seriously if:

• Hemoglobin is very low (severe anemia)
• White blood cell count is extremely high or low
• Platelet count is below 50,000/µL
• Unexplained bleeding or bruising
• Persistent fever with abnormal blood counts

🍬 Blood Sugar (Glucose)

Take it seriously if:

• Blood sugar is above 300 mg/dL
• Blood sugar is below 70 mg/dL with symptoms
• Confusion, drowsiness, or loss of consciousness
• Excessive thirst, frequent urination, and vomiting

🩺 HbA1c (Diabetes Test)

Take it seriously if:

• HbA1c is above 9%
• Persistent high blood sugar despite treatment
• Signs of diabetic complications

🧪 Kidney Function Tests (Creatinine, Urea)

Take it seriously if:

• Creatinine rises suddenly
• Reduced urine output
• Swelling of legs or face
• Shortness of breath

🫀 Electrolytes (Sodium, Potassium)

Take it seriously if:

• Potassium is very high or very low
• Severe muscle weakness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Seizures or confusion

🫁 Liver Function Tests (LFT)

Take it seriously if:

• Jaundice develops
• Dark urine and pale stools
• Severe abdominal pain
• Rapidly rising liver enzymes

🦠 Infection Markers (CRP, ESR, Procalcitonin)

Take it seriously if:

• High fever persists
• Difficulty breathing
• Signs of severe infection or sepsis

🧫 Urine Test

Take it seriously if:

• Blood in urine
• Persistent protein in urine
• Painful urination with fever
• Reduced urine output

❤️ Lipid Profile

Take it seriously if:

• Extremely high triglycerides (>500 mg/dL)
• Chest pain with abnormal cholesterol levels
• History of heart disease

🚨 Seek Immediate Medical Care If Any Lab Result Is Associated With:

• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe dehydration
• Seizures
• Confusion or unconsciousness
• Severe bleeding

Perambalur Polyclinic Medical Centre
Sangupettai, Thuraiyur Road, Perambalur
📞 81486 78678 | 95972 92678

"Lab results should always be interpreted along with symptoms and clinical examination by a qualified healthcare professional."