Medical Tests That Can Save Your Life

Health and Wellness - Health Care

By: SimplyAbundantLife 09-Jul-2012

DEXA Scan (Osteoporosis)

Known to be the most accurate bone density test, often measured in the hip or spine region. DEXA Scan is more sensitive than your regular x-ray and can diagnose bone loss at an early stage. To obtain a precise reading, both hip and spine area can be scanned. The DEXA Scan will be able to diagnose you with Osteoporosis, as well as predict if you are a possible future candidate. This test is simple, noninvasive, and painless. The most you will have to do is put on a gown and remove any articles of clothing/jewelry that contains metal.

High Sensitive C-Reactive Protein Test (Coronary Heart Disease Risk)

This is a routine blood test. CRP is a protein secreted by the liver in response to inflammation in the body. A high concentration of CRP in the blood can indicate inflammation throughout the body, including the arteries. Inflamed arteries are a critical factor in the risk of coronary heart disease. CRP can trigger blood clots, which is a major cause of heart attacks and strokes. CRP levels are sensitive and can fluctuate in the body throughout the day. Therefore, fasting before you have your blood drawn is best. Also, it is preferred to have this test done when no other health problems are present (i.e. bacterial infection, a cold virus). There is a "Traditional CRP Test" which is not as accurate as the HS CRP.

CA-125 Test (Ovarian Cancer)

The Carcinogenic Antigen 125 blood test measures levels of a protein that is normally confined within a cell. However, if cell walls are inflamed or damaged, the cell proteins may be released into the bloodstream. Ovarian cancer cells may contain excess of this protein allowing this test to help diagnose the disease. The downside to this test is that many times, early stages of ovarian cancer cannot be detected because the concentration of these proteins has not necessarily increased to be released in the early stages. Combining this test with a regular Pap test is optimal for ovarian diagnosis. IF you have a genetic disposition/high risk for ovarian cysts and cancer, request a TVU (Transvaginal Ultrasound). This produces internal ultrasound images to screen for ovarian abnormalities. The TVU is painless and takes little time.

Elisa (Hepatitis C)

This blood test indicates if there is a presence of antibodies to the hepatitis C virus that is produced by the immune system. Hep. C is foreign to the body so your immune system will put up a defense (antibodies). This is caused by a virus or drug/alcohol abuse. On a rare occasion an individual with an autoimmune disease may have a false positive result, so it is important to have a follow-up test done. Symptoms are: Jaundice, flu like symptoms, and extreme fatigue. Chronic Active Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) does not have a cure. False Negative is also rare, but can occur in those whose immune system is not able to produce enough antibodies, such as individuals with HIV.

Blood Glucose Test (Type II Diabetes)

It is best to do this test with fasting for approximately 8 hours, which is why many people have blood drawn in the morning. This form of glucose checking is more accurate than the random plasma glucose test, though random glucose testing is beneficial and easy to do (right in the doctor's office). Fasting blood glucose test measures the amount of glucose in your blood. If you have too much, it reveals a problem with your glucose metabolism.

Final Thoughts

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Resource: "Medical Tests That Can Save Your Life:, by David Johnson, Ph.D. and David Sandmire, M.D. with Daniel Klein

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dptstretch 7/12/2012
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Interesting read...I also was fascinated with the CRP test. I've traditionally had higher than desrable cholesteral...so i sure don't want a double whammy!
SimplyAbundantLife 7/11/2012
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My pleasure Belinda! Blessings of Health to you!
belindayhughes 7/10/2012
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Thanks for this important list of health tests. H5
SimplyAbundantLife 7/9/2012
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That's the wall we come against often times in mainstream health care...a big misfortune. Insurances often will not cover many tests, so physicians will not offer those options. I would re-try with boldness in asking for the CRP test. You and your health is more than WORTH it.
hummingbirdee 7/9/2012
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Great list. I asked my doctor for a CRP test and he would not do it.