Glucose, cholesterol, liver enzymes and creatinine. Blood test results contain many terms that may not be immediately familiar. Each provides information about a different aspect of your health. We have put together an overview of what these measurements mean and why they deserve attention.

Blood chemistry tests help detect certain metabolic conditions, including those associated with an increased risk of heart and circulatory disease. Starting treatment early can reduce this risk. These tests also provide information about kidney and liver function and the levels of minerals in your body.

Blood Sugar: A Current Reading and a Look Back

Fasting blood glucose testing is an important part of assessing the risk of diabetes. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps regulate glucose, or blood sugar. Put simply, it allows glucose to move from the bloodstream into cells.

If cells stop responding adequately to insulin, more glucose remains in the blood. This is known as insulin resistance. It indicates that the body is not managing glucose properly and signals a risk of developing diabetes.

If a fasting blood glucose result is elevated, the test needs to be repeated. This helps the doctor establish whether it was a one-off fluctuation or whether the raised level persists.

Glycated haemoglobin, also known as HbA1c, provides another important piece of information. It reflects blood glucose levels over approximately the previous three months. Unlike a single glucose measurement, it therefore offers a longer-term picture. It helps the doctor assess problems with glucose metabolism and decide on further treatment.

Cholesterol: Why the Total Number Is Not Enough

Your body needs cholesterol. It is one of the basic building blocks of cells. However, excess cholesterol can contribute to deposits in blood vessel walls and the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. These narrow the vessels and can restrict the blood supply to organs.

Several components of blood lipids therefore matter:

  • Total cholesterol provides an overall picture of the amount of cholesterol in the blood.
  • LDL cholesterol, sometimes called “bad” cholesterol, is associated with cholesterol deposits in blood vessels.
  • HDL cholesterol, often called “good” cholesterol, has a protective role in blood vessel health.
  • Triglycerides are another type of blood fat that doctors monitor. Their levels are also linked to long-term eating habits.

The source material also discusses lipoprotein(a). Its level is largely determined by genetics, and measuring it helps assess the lifetime risk of cardiovascular disease associated with atherosclerosis.

Uric Acid: When Joints Become Painful

Uric acid forms when the body breaks down substances called purines. A diet containing too many purines can raise uric acid levels.

Elevated uric acid is associated with a risk of gout. In this condition, uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, causing inflammation and considerable pain. The joint at the base of the big toe is a common site of symptoms.

When levels are elevated, important steps include adjusting the diet and limiting foods high in purines.

Kidneys: How Well Are They Working?

Blood chemistry tests also help assess kidney function. The measurements include creatinine and urea. The doctor also evaluates how effectively the kidneys filter the blood.

Various conditions can damage the kidneys, including high blood pressure and diabetes. Monitoring kidney function is therefore an important part of caring for people with these conditions. If the results suggest a problem, it is important to investigate the cause promptly.

Liver Tests: Raised Levels Can Have Different Causes

Your results may include the abbreviations ALT, AST, ALP and GGT. These refer to enzymes whose levels help doctors assess the liver and bile ducts.

Raised levels may be associated with:

  • a build-up of fat in the liver, known as steatosis,
  • regular alcohol consumption,
  • viral hepatitis,
  • conditions affecting the gallbladder and bile ducts,
  • certain pancreatic conditions,
  • the use of antibiotics or other medicines.

Persistently elevated liver enzyme levels require investigation. The doctor may arrange further blood tests and imaging, usually starting with an ultrasound scan.

Minerals and the Body’s Internal Balance

Sodium, chloride, potassium, and sometimes calcium and magnesium may also form part of a blood chemistry assessment.

These measurements provide information about the body’s internal balance. They are linked, for example, to kidney, heart and nervous system function, bone health, and the function of the thyroid and parathyroid glands.

What Happens If a Result Is Outside the Expected Range?

For elevated fasting blood glucose, a repeat blood test and additional measurements can help clarify the situation. Persistently raised liver enzymes require investigation into the cause, sometimes including an ultrasound scan. Different findings may therefore call for different next steps.

The purpose of blood chemistry testing is to identify changes, investigate their causes and use the results to guide lifestyle adjustments or treatment. Taking action early can help reduce health risks.

Source: Dr Věra Němečková, Blood Chemistry Tests.