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Children’s health is a top priority for every family. Conducting regular tests for children is an effective way to ensure proper growth and early detection of any health issues.

In this article from Advanced Cell Labs in Saudi Arabia, we highlight the most important tests your child may need at various stages of growth, helping you monitor their health accurately.

Why Do Children Need Regular Tests?

Regular tests help to:

• Detect chronic or hereditary diseases early
• Evaluate proper growth and development
• Check the function of organs such as liver, kidneys, and thyroid
• Identify vitamin and mineral deficiencies like iron, calcium, and Vitamin D
• Monitor any unexplained symptoms

 

When Should Children Start Testing?

It is recommended to begin tests from the newborn stage, especially newborn screenings. Tests should then continue periodically according to a child’s test schedule:

• Comprehensive tests for children at least once a year
• Routine tests when symptoms appear or there is a hereditary predisposition

 

Complete Blood Count (CBC) for Children

The CBC is one of the first and most important tests for children. It measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, helping detect:

• Anemia
• Infections
• Blood clotting disorders

 

Thyroid Test for Infants and Children

The thyroid regulates growth and energy. TSH and T4 tests are recommended, especially in early childhood, to detect:

• Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism
• Delayed physical or mental development

Blood Glucose Test

This test helps detect:

• Type 1 Diabetes
• Metabolic disorders
• Recommended for children with a family history of diabetes or symptoms like excessive thirst or weight loss

 

Iron and Hemoglobin Tests

Iron deficiency anemia is common in children. Tests include:

• Hemoglobin test
• Iron and anemia assessment to determine if supplements or dietary changes are needed

Urine and Stool Tests

These tests help to:

• Detect urinary or kidney infections
• Check for parasites or intestinal infections
• Monitor digestive system health

 

Vitamin D and Calcium Tests

Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone building. Recommended tests include:

• Vitamin D for children
• Calcium and magnesium levels to identify deficiencies affecting healthy growth

Food Allergy Tests

If your child experiences rashes, vomiting, or diarrhea after certain foods, tests should be done to:

• Identify food allergies and prevent future exposure

 

Common Immune System Tests

These tests include:

• Immune deficiency tests
• Antibody tests to assess the child’s immunity, especially if frequently infected

Pre-Vaccination Tests

Sometimes tests are recommended before vaccinations, including:

• Complete blood count
• Immunity checks against certain viruses to ensure a proper vaccine response

 

When Should Tests Be Done if Symptoms Appear?

Do not wait for illness to appear. Go for testing if your child shows:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Changes in skin color or overall activity
• Delayed growth or motor/mental development
• Frequent infections or fever

How Test Results Improve Your Child’s Health

Test results help you:

• Take early preventive actions
• Adjust diet or lifestyle
• Start appropriate treatment before conditions worsen
• Monitor ongoing growth and health

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Children’s Tests

1. Do blood tests hurt children?

They are usually quick, and labs use child-friendly tools to minimize pain.

2. How often should tests be done?

At least once a year or as recommended by the doctor.

3. Can children be tested at home?

Some labs, like Advanced Cell Labs, offer home sample collection.

4. Are there tests specifically for newborns?

Yes, including thyroid screening, metabolic genetic tests, and hearing tests.

 

Essential children’s tests are a key step toward a healthy future. Don’t wait for symptoms—schedule regular check-ups at Advanced Cell Labs, where we ensure accurate results and fast service with a specialized pediatric care team.

Book your child’s test now at Advanced Cell Labs or contact us to find out the appropriate testing schedule for their age.

!Medical testing plays a vital role in the lives of athletes, whether professional or amateur. Regular health assessments through the most important medical tests for athletes help improve performance, reduce the risk of injuries, and ensure optimal results in training and competitions.

Why do athletes need regular tests?

Athletes require careful monitoring of their body functions, as intense physical activity directly affects body systems. Regular tests help to:

• Detect any health issues early.
• Assess the efficiency of different body systems.
• Adjust diet and supplements according to actual needs.
• Prevent muscle fatigue and chronic exhaustion.

 

What is the difference between athlete and non-athlete tests?

Athlete tests focus on assessing muscle function, hormonal balance, levels of minerals and vitamins, and heart and vascular health, while non-athlete tests focus only on general indicators. Therefore, they differ in detail, intensity, and frequency.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

The CBC test is one of the most important medical tests for athletes, as it provides a comprehensive view of:

• Red and white blood cell counts.
• Hemoglobin levels.
• Indicators of anemia or infections.

 

Hemoglobin and Iron Tests

Hemoglobin is essential for transporting oxygen to the muscles, and iron testing helps detect anemia or low oxygen levels, which is common among some athletes.

Calcium and Vitamin D Tests

Calcium and Vitamin D are crucial for bone and muscle health. Deficiency in either increases the risk of fractures or muscle cramps.

Muscle Enzyme Tests (CPK)

This test measures the level of CPK enzyme, which rises when muscle tissue is damaged. It helps to:

• Assess muscle fatigue.
• Determine how well muscles recover after exercise.

Liver and Kidney Function Tests

These tests help to:

• Ensure the body can detoxify efficiently.
• Monitor the impact of dietary supplements on the body.

Blood Glucose Tests at Rest and After Exercise

Glucose testing during rest and post-exercise helps to:

• Understand the body’s response to exercise.
• Adjust meal timing and carbohydrate intake.

 

Hormone Tests for Athletes

Athletes, especially those practicing strength, endurance, or bodybuilding sports, need precise hormone monitoring to ensure optimal performance and avoid fatigue or injuries. Hormone tests not only reveal the body’s internal balance but also help improve training and nutrition plans. Here are the main hormones to test and the meaning of their indicators:

Testosterone

• The primary male hormone responsible for building muscle mass and increasing strength.
• Low levels lead to poor performance, decreased libido, and chronic fatigue.

Free Testosterone

• The active form of testosterone, most accurate for assessing muscle effects.
• Very important for bodybuilding and male athletes.

 

LH (Luteinizing Hormone)

• Regulates testosterone production.
• Low levels may indicate a dysfunction in the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone)

• Responsible for sperm production and testicular function regulation.
• Tested to determine the cause of low testosterone or fertility issues.

Cortisol

• The stress hormone, rises with overtraining or lack of sleep.
• Chronic elevation leads to muscle breakdown and delayed recovery.

 

DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate)

• Hormone derived into testosterone and estrogen.
• Used as a general indicator of hormonal health and energy.

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)

• Stimulates thyroid function.
• Important for thyroid performance, controlling metabolism and fat burning.

T3 and T4 (Triiodothyronine & Thyroxine)

• Actual thyroid hormones.
• Low levels cause slow metabolism, fat gain, and performance decline.

Prolactin

• High levels may reduce testosterone and focus.
• Tested if fatigue, low libido, or poor performance appear.

IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1)

• Indicator of Growth Hormone (GH), plays a key role in muscle building and cell regeneration.
• Low levels may indicate weak GH production or poor nutrition.

 

Urine and Electrolytes Tests

Urine testing evaluates hydration and kidney health, while electrolyte tests (sodium, potassium, magnesium) help understand body’s electrical balance.

Triglycerides and Cholesterol Tests

Even athletes are at risk of lipid disorders, especially with unbalanced diets. These tests help:

• Prevent heart diseases.
• Perfectly adjust diet.

Physical Performance and Endurance Tests

Include tests like:

• Cardiac stress test.
• VO2 Max analysis.
• Heart rate monitoring during exercise.

Essential to understand physical performance efficiency.

How often should tests be repeated?

• Every 3 to 6 months for professional athletes.
• Once or twice a year for amateur athletes.
• After intensive training or competitions.

Tips for athletes after test results

• Consult a sports nutrition specialist to adjust your diet.
• Do not ignore any abnormal indicators.
• Follow up regularly to monitor improvement.
• Ensure adequate water intake.

Frequently Asked Questions about Athletic Tests

Do you need to fast before the tests?
Yes, especially for sugar and lipid tests.
Do tests vary by sport type?
Yes, depending on muscle load and nutrition.
Do supplements affect test results?
Some may, so inform the lab of any supplements you are taking.

 

Regularly performing the most important medical tests for athletes is the key to success and prevention. Contact “Advanced Cell Labs” now to book a customized athletes’ test package and start your path to better performance and stronger health.
Call us now or book online!

Many people struggle to understand their medical test results, as the numbers and symbols may seem like mysterious terms. However, knowing how to read your medical test results yourself is not an impossible task.

On the contrary, having a basic understanding of these results can help you make better health decisions and give you a clear view of your overall health.

Why is it important to understand medical test results?

Understanding test results does not mean you replace the doctor, but it enhances your health awareness and makes you an active partner in monitoring your condition. It can help you:

• Detect any abnormal changes.
• Monitor chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
• Prepare for doctor visits with clear questions.

 

What does a test report look like?

A test report usually contains:

• Test Name
• Result
• Unit
• Reference Range
• Notes or preliminary interpretation

 

How to read your medical test results yourself?

Reading your medical test results may seem complicated at first, but it becomes easier when you understand the basic symbols and meanings for each test. Here are the main tests and symbols you may see in your medical report, with a simple explanation for each:

First: Complete Blood Count (CBC)

• WBC: White blood cells – high levels indicate inflammation or infection, low levels may suggest weak immunity.

• RBC: Red blood cells – low levels may indicate anemia, high levels may be associated with dehydration or blood disorders.

• HGB or Hb: Hemoglobin – responsible for transporting oxygen, low levels indicate anemia.

• HCT: Hematocrit – used to assess anemia or dehydration.

• PLT: Platelets – involved in blood clotting, any imbalance can cause bleeding or clotting issues.

 

Second: Blood Sugar Tests

• FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar): Blood sugar level after 8 hours of fasting – normal is below 100 mg/dL.

• PPBS (Postprandial Blood Sugar): Two hours after eating – normal is below 140.

• HbA1c: Glycated hemoglobin – shows average blood sugar over 3 months, normal is below 5.7%.

Third: Renal Function Test (RFT)

• Creatinine: Key indicator of kidney efficiency – normal is below approximately 1.2.

• Urea or BUN: Product of protein breakdown – high levels may indicate kidney dysfunction or dehydration.

Fourth: Liver Function Tests (LFT)

• ALT / SGPT and AST / SGOT: Liver enzymes – elevated levels indicate liver issues.

• Bilirubin: High levels cause yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice).

• ALP: Enzyme indicating bile duct or bone health.

 

Fifth: Lipid Profile (Cholesterol & Triglycerides)

• LDL: Bad cholesterol – lower is better (preferably below 100).

• HDL: Good cholesterol – should be high (over 40 for men, 50 for women).

• Triglycerides: Should be below 150.

• Total Cholesterol: Below 200 is considered normal.

Sixth: Urinalysis

• Color & Appearance: Urine color – should be light yellow and clear.

• Protein: Presence may indicate kidney problems.

• Glucose: May appear in urine if blood sugar is high.

• WBC / RBC: Presence may indicate infection or inflammation.

• Ketones: Indicator of fat burning, appears in uncontrolled diabetes or prolonged fasting.

Seventh: Vitamins & Minerals Tests

• Vitamin D: Ideal range 30–100 ng/mL.

• Ferritin: Iron stores – low levels indicate anemia.

• Iron: Low levels linked to anemia, high levels may result from liver disease.

• Calcium: Important for bone health – low levels affect nerves and muscles.

Eighth: Inflammation Markers

• C-Reactive Protein (CRP): General inflammation marker – used to detect acute or chronic inflammation.

• ESR: Erythrocyte sedimentation rate – higher values indicate chronic inflammation or autoimmune diseases.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

CBC is one of the most common tests. It includes measurements such as:

• Hemoglobin (Hb): Detects anemia.
• White Blood Cells (WBC): Indicates infection or inflammation.
• Platelets: Responsible for blood clotting.

Understanding CBC helps interpret conditions like anemia or bacterial infections.

Blood Sugar Tests

• Fasting Blood Glucose: Should be between 70-99 mg/dL.
• Random Blood Sugar
• HbA1c: Reflects average sugar levels over 3 months.

What does fasting blood sugar mean? If the value is above 126, it may indicate diabetes.

Creatinine & Kidney Function Tests

Indicates how efficiently the kidneys filter blood. Key indicators:

• Creatinine
• Urea

Abnormal kidney function results may indicate kidney issues.

Liver Enzymes Tests ALT & AST

ALT and AST indicate liver health.

• Elevated levels indicate liver damage or inflammation.
• Normal values vary by lab but are usually below 40 units.

Reading ALT/AST tests can be an early indicator of chronic liver problems.

What do normal, high, and low values mean?

• Normal values: Within the lab’s reference range.
• High values: Indicate excess activity or dysfunction.
• Low values: May indicate deficiency or organ function impairment.

Common Test Symbols and Their Meanings

• WBC: White blood cells
• RBC: Red blood cells
• Hb: Hemoglobin
• HDL / LDL: Good and bad cholesterol
• CRP / ESR: Inflammation markers

When is a result concerning?

• When there is a significant difference between the result and reference value.
• If accompanied by clinical symptoms.
• If multiple indicators are abnormal.

When are test results dangerous? When values exceed normal limits significantly or suddenly.
Read also:

Do results differ by gender and age?

Yes, reference values vary by:

• Gender: Hemoglobin, for example, is higher in males.
• Age: Older adults may have different indicators.
• Health condition: Diabetes or hypertension patients.

 

Tips for Accurate Test Reading

1. Read the test name carefully.
2. Compare the result with the reference range.
3. Do not rely on a single result.
4. Notice any symbols like “H” or “L” (high or low).

When to consult a doctor?

• If results are unclear.
• If there are worrying health symptoms.
• If results are clearly outside the normal range.

Knowing your test results complements, but does not replace, consulting a doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Test Interpretation

Can I rely on the internet to understand tests?
You can understand tests initially, but medical consultation is indispensable.
Do reference values differ between labs?
Yes, always refer to your own report.
Is reading test results enough to diagnose a condition?
No, it is part of a comprehensive diagnosis including clinical examination and medical history.

 

Understanding how to read your medical test results yourself is an important step toward better health awareness. However, it does not replace consulting a specialist doctor. If you want accurate testing and professional interpretation, we invite you to visit “Advanced Cell Laboratories” where we provide comprehensive tests and clear reports to help you monitor your health confidently.
Don’t delay your health — book your tests today with Advanced Cell Laboratories.