What is anemia testing?
Anemia testing is a group of blood tests used to find out if you have anemia—a condition where you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen through your body. These tests help your doctor figure out the cause, such as low iron, vitamin deficiencies, or chronic disease.
Who is a candidate for anemia testing?
You may need anemia testing if you:
- Feel tired or weak all the time
- Look pale or feel short of breath
- Have heavy periods or chronic health conditions
- Are pregnant or have a diet low in iron or vitamins
- Are being treated for anemia and need to monitor progress
What to expect during anemia testing
A small blood sample will be drawn from your arm. The test usually includes a complete blood count (CBC), which looks at red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit. Your doctor might also order iron, vitamin B12, or folate tests depending on your symptoms.
What are the risks for anemia testing?
This is a very safe test. You may have a little bruising, soreness, or bleeding at the spot where blood is taken, but these side effects go away quickly.
What does recovery from anemia testing entail?
There’s no recovery needed. You can return to normal activities right after the test. Once your results are ready, your doctor will explain them and talk with you about treatment options if needed.