How to Read Your Blood Test Results: A Patient Guide

Receiving blood test results can be confusing when they are full of abbreviations and reference ranges. Here is a guide to understanding the most common tests. Complete blood count (CBC): measures red blood cells (carrying oxygen), white blood cells (fighting infection), hemoglobin (oxygen-carrying protein), and platelets (blood clotting). Abnormalities may indicate anemia, infection, or blood disorders. Basic metabolic panel: measures glucose (blood sugar - fasting level above 7.0 mmol/L may indicate diabetes), creatinine and eGFR (kidney function), electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride - important for heart and muscle function). Lipid panel: measures total cholesterol, LDL (\"bad\" cholesterol), HDL (\"good\" cholesterol), and triglycerides. These assess cardiovascular risk. Thyroid function: TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) is the primary screening test. High TSH suggests hypothyroidism; low TSH suggests hyperthyroidism. HbA1c: measures average blood sugar over 2 to 3 months. Below 6.0% is normal; 6.0 to 6.4% indicates prediabetes; 6.5% or higher suggests diabetes. Important caveats: reference ranges may vary between laboratories. A single result outside the normal range does not necessarily indicate a problem - trends over time are more meaningful. Always discuss your results with your physician. A telehealth appointment is sufficient for reviewing lab results. This article is for informational purposes only.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Content reviewed by licensed Canadian physicians. Last updated August 2026.