Medical tests: what they check and how to handle results

Getting a medical test can feel confusing. You want clear answers fast, not jargon. This page explains the most common tests, what to expect, and simple steps to make testing work for you.

Common tests and what they check

Blood tests: the most frequent. They check things like blood sugar, cholesterol, kidney and liver function, and markers for infection or inflammation. A complete blood count (CBC) looks at red and white cells and platelets.

Urine tests: quick screening for kidney issues, bladder infections, or blood in the urine. They’re simple and useful for routine checks.

Imaging tests: X-rays, ultrasound, CT and MRI show organs and bones. They’re used when doctors need to see structure or injuries.

Microbiology tests: swabs and cultures find bacteria, viruses or fungi. PCR tests (like many COVID tests) detect specific genetic material of a germ.

Special tests: biopsies, genetic tests and hormone panels give deeper answers when a basic test isn’t enough.

How to prepare and read results

Preparation matters. Some blood tests need fasting (no food for 8–12 hours). Others ask you to hold certain meds or avoid alcohol. Always ask when you make the appointment.

Reference ranges are lab-specific. A result slightly outside the range doesn’t always mean something serious. Doctors combine your result with symptoms, history and other tests to decide what it means.

Watch for false positives and false negatives. No test is perfect. For example, an early infection might give a negative result even though you’re ill. If you still feel sick, follow up with your doctor.

Ask these questions before and after testing: What exactly are you testing for? Do I need to fast or stop medication? When will results be ready? Will I get a copy? What’s the next step if results are abnormal?

Keep records. Save copies of lab reports and note dates. Trends matter more than one-off numbers—tracking cholesterol or blood sugar over time gives much better insight than a single test.

Costs and access: labs, clinics and hospitals vary in price. If cost is a concern, ask for a cost estimate, check public clinics, or see if community health centers offer sliding-scale fees. Insurance often covers medically necessary tests—confirm with your provider.

Quality tips: use accredited labs when possible. If a result looks odd or affects major decisions, get a second opinion or repeat the test. For urgent symptoms—high fever, severe pain, heavy bleeding—seek emergency care rather than waiting for test results.

Medical tests are tools, not final answers. Use them to guide smart decisions, talk openly with your doctor, and keep your own copies so you can track your health over time.