Receiving your lab report might leave you perplexed. However, a very simple and useful approach for reading and taking action based on your health test results is provided here, one that will enable you to grasp their meaning and know the next steps to follow.
1. Basics first
Patient details confirmation: your name and age, sample date—small inaccuracies do happen.
Test type annotation: CBC, lipid profile, LFT, KFT, thyroid, HbA1c, etc., to remember which body system is tested.
2. The results and the reference range should be read together
Each test provides a numerical value and a reference (normal) range.
Usually, the values within the range are normal; the above or below values need interpreting.
Keep in mind the units mg/dL, µIU/mL, U/L. A different unit can change the meaning.
3. Check for flags or highlights
Frequent marking of H (high) or L (low) beside abnormal results is practiced by many labs. Take these as generally starting points, not as such verdicts.
4. Familiarize yourself with commonly done tests (quick guide)
CBC: Low haemoglobin → anemia; high WBC → possible infection/inflammation.
Lipid profile: high LDL/TG or low HDL → increased cardiovascular risk.
Fasting blood sugar & HbA1c: Fasting glucose reflects the current level; HbA1c reflects the average sugar control over ~3 months.
LFT (liver enzymes): Elevated ALT/AST may be indicative of liver stress.
KFT (creatinine, BUN): Changes reflect kidney function.
Thyroid: TSH, T3, T4. Abnormal TSH suggests under- or overactive thyroid.
5. Compare with past results
Trends are more important than single values. Bring previous reports — rising or falling trends help decision-making.
6. Consider context
Medications, recent illness, fasting status, exercise, and time of day may all impact results. Note these when reading the report.
7. Red flags are very easy to spot
Extremely high or low values, like an instance of exceptionally high glucose, or a case of low hemoglobin, are treated as conditions that require immediate medical intervention.
8. Do not diagnose yourself
Laboratory analyses are only one part of the clinical picture. Your physician is the one who will be able to correlate the results with the symptoms, examination and medical history.
9. Pose specific questions
What is the reason for the abnormality?
Should I undergo more tests or change my lifestyle?
Should I start changing the medications?
When should we do retesting?
10. Keep records and continue
Have digital copies and make a note of the follow-up date. Continuous monitoring enables to observe the treatment or lifestyle changes effect. Knowing your tests gives you the power to control your health, but the interpretation by the experts is still a must. A qualified physician or pathologist should be the one to see your report for the right action plan.
At Chandan Diagnostic Centre Patna, your health and trust matter most. We strive every day to bring excellence, accuracy, and care to your healthcare journey.