Discounted Lab Panels

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Blood ABO Grouping and Rh Typing - Everything You Need to Know

Although blood has its unique red color, its chemistry can be varied from individual to individual. Some people have a certain type of blood and they cannot receive blood transfusions from people with who they are not compatible.

The blood typing or grouping is dictated by certain antibodies called antigens. These antigens are present on the surface of red blood cells or other tissues in the body. Keep reading to learn more about ABO grouping, Rh typing, and why they are important.

What Is ABO Grouping and Rh Typing?

Scientists have discovered more than 40 different types of blood in the human body. However, some of them are prevalent to most people, so we'll focus on them. For example, the 4 main types of blood are A, B, AB, and O.

This type of grouping or blood system is created based on the antigens present on the surface of red blood cells. People who have type A blood have the A antigen; people who have type B blood have the B antigen. Similarly, people who have type AB blood have both A and B antigens, and finally, people with type O blood have no antigens at all.

The Rh typing also comes into play here. Blood types can have 2 Rh options - positive or negative. Rh-positive blood has a specific antibody present on the red blood cells. Rh-negative blood doesn't have this antibody.

Delivering the wrong type of blood to a person can pose serious complications. There is a risk of blood clumping and agglutination. These conditions can be life-threatening as they tend to damage most of the tissues and organs in the body of the recipient.

How Does Blood Compatibility Work?

The immune system of each individual is capable of identifying the specific antigens present on the red blood cells. Blood compatibility is important when it comes to blood transfusions because if someone gets the wrong type of blood, his/her immune system starts to develop antibodies against it.

For example:

Type A people can receive from other people with type A blood or from people with type O. They can donate blood to people with type A and/or type AB blood
Type B people can receive from other people with type B blood or from people with type O. they can donate blood to people with type B and/or type AB blood
Type AB people can receive blood from anyone but they can only donate blood to other type AB individuals
Type O people can receive blood only from other individuals with type O. They can donate to everyone since their blood has no specific antigen present on red blood cells

Additionally, blood transfusions are also dictated by the Rh factor. For example:

Rh-positive people can receive blood from other individuals with Rh-positive blood or people with Rh-negative blood
Rh-negative people can only receive blood from other individuals with Rh-negative blood typing. They can safely donate to either Rh-negative or Rh-positive people

As you can see, there are 8 main types of blood out there if you consider the blood-specific antigen and the Rh factor. That's why it's important to know your blood type, so you know your compatibility in case of transfusions or medical emergencies.

When it comes to blood grouping distribution, about 38% of the US population is type O positive and 7% is type O negative. 34% percent is type A positive and just 6% is type A negative. The other blood groupings are small percentages, but these statistics are constantly changing over the years.

Type O blood is always a priority for blood banks and hospitals because this type of blood is the most prevalent. There is always someone who needs type O blood on a hospital bed. More specifically, Rh-negative type O blood is a universal donor as it can be transfused to everyone without the risk of harming recipients.

On the other hand, having Rh-positive type AB blood makes you a very lucky person. You can receive blood from anyone without damaging your system. This is called the universal recipient type of blood and only about 3% of people in the United States have it.

Why Is It Important to Know Your Blood Type?

There are multiple reasons why you should know your blood type. This is vital information that's inexpensive to find out. Here are some of these reasons:

Know Your Blood Donation Compatibility

Hospitals are almost always in great demand of blood, particularly those types that are difficult to find such as Rh-negative blood. If you get the chance and you're able, you should donate blood once per year.

Every blood bag is labeled and stored accordingly by hospitals and blood banks. This blood is useful during surgeries or for blood transfusions. If you know your blood type, you are more aware of how prevalent or how scarce it can be.

Know the Transfusion Compatibility

Knowing your blood type also helps with identifying possible donors or receivers in a specific circle of friends or among your family members. Remember that there are 8 different blood types out there if you consider the Rh factor.

If you have a particularly rare type of blood, it's good to know so you can find potential donors on time. Your body cannot receive blood from anyone and knowing the transfusion compatibility saves a lot of time and headaches.

For example, if a person receives incompatible blood, his or her immune system will start to develop antibodies to the antigens of the received blood. This is basically doing more harm than good. Blood transfusions are frequent during surgeries and a lot of complications can arise if the wrong type of blood is administered.

Similarly, if you ever need a blood transfusion, it's nice to know that you're compatible with someone in your family or circle of friends. In case of emergency, you can be the recipient or donor of blood to save someone's life or yours.

It's Useful for Pregnant Women

Although it rarely happens, some mothers might be Rh-negative and give birth to a Rh-positive baby. The baby inherits the positive antigen from a Rh-positive father. As a result, the mother's immune system might see the Rh positivity of the baby as a foreign substance and develop antibodies to it.

These antibodies could cross the placenta and cause massive damage to the internal organs and tissues of the newborn. This is called hemolytic disease and it can be prevented with the right treatment.

During pregnancy, doctors can do ABO grouping tests to determine if the mother and the baby are not blood compatible. If this is the case, doctors might choose to administer injections that protect the Rh antigen of the baby against the immune system of the mother.

These injections are administered throughout pregnancy and after giving birth. It will prevent hemolytic disease and other complications caused by having an incompatibility between the mother and the fetus.

Know Your Organ Donor Status

Not only blood can be put into another person's body, but also organs and/or tissues. In this case, there is also a compatibility issue and knowing your ABO grouping and Rh factor helps a lot. Doctors do a lot of tests to determine if a person is compatible with another before donating a portion of an organ.

For example, the liver is known to have amazing regenerative properties. It's possible to receive a liver transplant from someone else under certain conditions. However, the organ must be compatible with your body and your blood types must match too.

Apart from blood, organs, and tissues, bone marrow transplants are also popular and can be done successfully. Again, ABO grouping tests and other types of tests are required to determine the compatibility of bone marrow between the donor and the recipient.

How Can You Find Out Your Blood ABO Grouping?

Finding what type of blood, you have is done very easily with the help of a blood test. You can order a direct-to-consumer lab and go to a clinic to give a blood sample. The results are emailed back to you in a few days or even quicker.

It takes medical science just a few minutes to determine your ABO grouping and Rh factor. This information is useful for each individual to know his/her compatibility with family members, friends, and so on.

In case of an emergency, it's good to know that you can donate blood to your sister or you can receive it from your closest friend because your blood types are compatible. Also, you don't have to fast before testing your blood type and this makes it more convenient for the general public.

Find Your Blood Type Today!

For an accurate and inexpensive blood grouping test, go to DiscountedLabs.com and order the ABO grouping blood test. You earn reward points from purchasing from DiscountedLabs and you get the results back very quickly!

IMPORTANT: Discounted Labs only serves these states: Find a Location

Click here to find out how our process works.

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Adrenal Insufficiency Panel- Basic

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What is Adrenal Insufficiency and What are the Symptoms?

Adrenal insufficiency is a condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of steroid hormones, primarily cortisol; but may also include impaired production of aldosterone (a mineralocorticoid), which regulates sodium conservation, potassium secretion, and water retention. Craving for salt or salty foods due to the urinary losses of sodium is common.

Addison's disease, , the auto-immune type of primary adrenal insufficiency, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia can manifest as adrenal insufficiency. If not treated, adrenal insufficiency may result in abdominal pains, vomiting, muscle weakness and fatigue, depression, low blood pressure, weight loss, kidney failure, changes in mood and personality, and shock (adrenal crisis).

Whatever the cause, adrenal insuﬃciency was invariably fatal until 1949, when cortisone was ﬁrst synthesized, and glucocorticoid- replacement treatment became available. However, despite this breakthrough, the diagnosis and treatment of patients with the disorder remain challenging.

What Lab Tests are Used to Initiate Diagnosis of Adrenal Insufficiency?

Discounted Labs’ basic adrenal insufficiency panel includes cortisol, ACTH, and DHEA as a starting point. Depending on lab test results, physicians may choose to do an ACTH stimulation test, renin test, aldosterone test, potassium, sodium, and a CT scan of the adrenal glands. In order to check for Addison's Disease, the auto-immune type of primary adrenal insufficiency, labs should be drawn to check 21-hydroxylase autoantibodies.

Cortisol Blood Test

What is Cortisol?

Cortisol (hydrocortisone) is the most prominent glucocorticosteroid, and it is essential for the maintenance of several body functions. Like other glucocorticosteroids, cortisol is synthesized from the common precursor cholesterol in the zona fasciculata of the cortex of the adrenal gland. For the transport of cortisol in blood, about 90% of cortisol is bound to corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) and to albumin. Only a small amount of cortisol circulates unbound in blood and is free to interact with its receptors.

Functions of Cortisol

The most important physiological effects of cortisol are the increase in blood glucose levels (enhancement of gluconeogenesis, catabolic action) and its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive action.

Production of Cortisol in the Body

Synthesis and secretion of cortisol by the adrenal gland are controlled by a negative feedback mechanism within the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal cortex-axis. If the cortisol level is low, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is secreted by the hypothalamus, which causes the pituitary to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). This stimulates the synthesis and secretion of cortisol by the adrenal gland. Cortisol itself acts in a negative feedback mechanism on the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus. In addition, stress is followed by increased cortisol secretion.

Cortisol Blood Levels During the Day

Serum cortisol concentrations normally show a diurnal variation. Maximum concentrations are usually reached early in the morning and then concentrations decline throughout the day to an evening level that is about half of the morning concentration; therefore, for interpretation of results, it is important to know the collection time of the serum sample.

What the Cortisol Test Can Help to Diagnose

The cortisol status of a patient is used to diagnose the function or malfunction of the adrenal gland, the pituitary, and the hypothalamus. Thereby, cortisol serum concentrations are used for monitoring several diseases with an overproduction (eg, Cushing syndrome) or underproduction (eg, Addison disease) of cortisol and for monitoring several therapeutic approaches (eg, dexamethasone suppression therapy in Cushing syndrome and hormone replacement therapy in Addison disease).

Factors that Affect Cortisol Blood Levels

Pregnancy, contraceptives, and estrogen therapy give rise to elevated cortisol concentrations. In samples from patients who have been treated with prednisolone, methylprednisolone, or prednisone, falsely elevated concentrations of cortisol may be determined. During metyrapone tests, 11-deoxycortisol levels are elevated. Falsely-elevated cortisol values may be determined due to cross-reactions. Patients suffering from 21-hydroxylase-deficiency exhibit elevated 21-deoxycortisol levels and this can also give rise to elevated cortisol levels.

The time of sample collection must be taken into account when interpreting results due to the cortisol secretion circadian rhythm. Severe stress can also give rise to elevated cortisol levels.

As with all tests containing monoclonal mouse antibodies, erroneous findings may be obtained from samples taken from patients who have been treated with monoclonal mouse antibodies or who have received them for diagnostic purposes. In rare cases, interference due to extremely high titers of antibodies to streptavidin and ruthenium can occur. The test contains additives, which minimize these effects.

The determination of cortisol in 24-hour urine is the method of choice for the detection of Cushing syndrome since cortisol excretion in urine is not subject to the diurnal rhythm of cortisol secretion.

Potential Interference for the Cortisol Test

This test may exhibit interference when the sample is collected from a person who is consuming a supplement with a high dose of biotin (also termed as vitamin B7 or B8, vitamin H, or coenzyme R). It is recommended to ask all patients who may be indicated for this test about biotin supplementation. Patients should be cautioned to stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection of a sample.

ACTH Test

What is Adrenal Corticotropic Hormone (ACTH)?

Adrenocorticotropic hormone is a hormone secreted in the anterior (front) pituitary gland in your brain.

The role of ACTH is to maintain appropriate levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which is released by the adrenal glands. Cortisol is our body’s natural alarm system. As our body’s primary stress hormone, it works with different parts of the brain to influence our fear, mood, and motivation.

Cortisol is best known for fueling the body’s “fight-or-flight” response in a crisis. But, cortisol also has a critical role in a variety of things the body does, like:

Controlling the sleeping and waking cycle
Boosting energy levels to better handle stress (and restore normal levels afterward)
Influences how the body uses carbs, proteins, and fats
Reducing inflammation
Regulating blood pressure
Increasing blood sugar

What Are the Symptoms of High or Low ACTH Induced Cortisol?

Symptoms of high cortisol can include; high blood pressure, obesity, high blood sugar levels, and edema. Low cortisol levels can cause weight loss, fatigue, low blood pressure, and muscle weakness.

What is the ACTH Test?

If you’re experiencing the symptoms of a cortisol imbalance, your doctor may order an ACTH test to measure the levels of both ACTH and cortisol in the blood . The ACTH test will help your doctor detect the diseases that are associated with too much or too little cortisol in the body. Your doctor might also perform a physical examination before making a firm diagnosis.

DHEA Test

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland. It is also made in the brain. DHEA leads to the production of androgens and estrogens (male and female sex hormones). As almost all DHEA is derived from the adrenal glands, blood measurements of DHEA-S are useful to detect excess adrenal activity as seen in adrenal cancer or hyperplasia, including certain forms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

Although serum DHEA-S levels are low in patients with primary or central adrenal insufficiency, a low level of this steroid is not sufficient by itself for establishing the diagnosis. A normal age- and sex-adjusted serum DHEA-S level, however, practically rules out the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency.

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Amenorrhea Test Panel

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Amenorrhea is the absence or abnormal cessation of the menses (menstruation periods).

Primary and secondary amenorrhea describe the occurrence of amenorrhea before and after menarche, respectively. The majority of the causes of primary and secondary amenorrhea are similar. Timing of the evaluation of primary amenorrhea recognizes the trend to earlier age at menarche and is therefore indicated when there has been a failure to menstruate by age 15 in the presence of normal secondary sexual development (two standard deviations above the mean of 13 years), or within five years after breast development if that occurs before age 10. Failure to initiate breast development by age 13 (two standard deviations above the mean of 10 years) also requires investigation. In women with regular menstrual cycles, a delay of menses for as little as one week may require the exclusion of pregnancy; secondary amenorrhea lasting three months and oligomenorrhea involving less than nine cycles a year require investigation.

The four most common causes are polycystic ovary syndrome, hypothalamic amenorrhea, ovarian failure, and hyperprolactinemia.

What Tests Are Used in the Diagnosis of Amenorrhea?

The initial useful laboratory tests are FSH, TSH, and prolactin.

Here are the characteristics of high/low levels of those three amenorrhea tests:

Elevated FSH Levels

Lack of ovarian function is marked by high FSH levels. Ovarian failure can occur at any age, even in utero, when it is usually the result of gonadal agenesis or gonadal dysgenesis.

Amenorrhea associated with normal or low FSH values and chronic anovulation is frequently unexplained. The most common diagnostic categories are hypothalamic amenorrhea and polycystic ovary syndrome, and in each case similar but less common conditions must be excluded.

Elevated Prolactin Levels

Hyperprolactinemia (high prolactin blood levels) is associated with decreased estradiol concentrations and amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea (infrequent periods). Prolactin concentrations are higher in women with amenorrhea than in those with oligomenorrhea.

With persistent hyperprolactinemia, after ruling out primary hypothyroidism (high TSH), MRI of the pituitary is indicated. Mildly elevated prolactin levels may be a sign of another organic central nervous system lesion, such as congenital aqueductal stenosis, non-functioning adenomas, or any condition which causes pituitary stalk irritability.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

When amenorrhea is associated with evidence of testosterone (androgen) excess, the most common disorder is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Less commonly, amenorrhea with hyperandrogenism arises from adrenal diseases, such as non-classical adrenal hyperplasia and Cushing syndrome or from androgen-producing tumors

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Anemia Panel- 18 Tests

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This 18 test anemia panel includes all tests needed to diagnose the degree and cause of anemia including a CBC panel (red blood cells, hemoglobin, etc), Ferritin, Iron, Total Iron Binding Capacity, Folate, and Vitamin B-12

This lab test panel is ideal for people who feel fatigued and who may suspect anemia. Women whose menstrual cycle is characterized by a lot of blood loss, people with potential vitamin deficiencies, and those who suspect internal bleeding will benefit from exploring the biomakers in this panel. Also, men and women who donate blood frequently may find this panel useful to ensure that they have no depleted their iron, ferritin and other markers of iron stores that can dramatically impact their energy level, mental function, mood and quality of life.

Anemia is a decrease in the total amount of red blood cells (RBCs) or hemoglobin in the blood, or a lowered ability of the blood to carry oxygen. It can have several causes.

Symptoms of Anemia

When anemia comes on slowly, the symptoms are often vague and may include feeling tired, weakness, shortness of breath, and a poor ability to exercise. When the anemia comes on quickly, symptoms may include confusion, feeling like one is going to pass out, loss of consciousness, and increased thirst. Anemia must be significant before a person becomes noticeably pale.

Causes of Anemia:

Anemia can be caused by blood loss, decreased red blood cell production, and increased red blood cell breakdown. Causes of blood loss include trauma and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Causes of decreased production include iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, thalassemia, and a number of neoplasms of the bone marrow. Causes of increased breakdown include genetic conditions such as sickle cell anemia, infections such as malaria, and certain autoimmune diseases.

Types of Anemia:

Anemia can also be classified based on the size of the red blood cells and amount of hemoglobin in each cell. If the cells are small, it is called microcytic anemia; if they are large, it is called macrocytic anemia; and if they are normal sized, it is called normocytic anemia.

Diagnosis of Anemia:

The diagnosis of anemia in men is based on a hemoglobin of less than 130 to 140 g/L (13 to 14 g/dL); in women, it is less than 120 to 130 g/L (12 to 13 g/dL).

Anemia Tests Included:

CBC (Complete Blood Count) Panel:

Complete Blood Count

Whole blood is made up of various types of cells suspended in a liquid called plasma. The complete blood count (CBC) is an inventory of the different cellular components of the blood: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Blood cell counts are typically reported as the number of cells in a cubic millimeter of blood (cells/mm3) or as a percentage of all blood cells.

Red Blood Cells

Red blood cells (erythrocytes) carry oxygen from the lungs to the body's cells, bound to a molecule called hemoglobin. Anemia is a condition characterized by a reduction in the number of red blood cells, often leaving a person fatigued, weak, and short of breath. Several tests are used to help diagnose various types of anemia.

Red Blood Cell Count (RBC): the total number of red blood cells in a quantity of blood. Normal ranges are 4.5-6.0 million cells/mm3 for men and 4.0-5.5 million cells/mm3 for women. (Women typically have lower counts than men due to the loss of blood through menstruation.)

Hematocrit (HCT): the proportion of red blood cells as a percentage of total blood volume. A normal hematocrit is 40-55% for men and 35-45% for women.

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) and MCH Concentration (MCHC): the amount or concentration, respectively, of hemoglobin in an average red blood cell.

Red Blood Cell Distribution Width (RDW): a measure of the size and uniformity of red blood cells.

White Blood Cells

White blood cells (leukocytes) carry out the body's immune responses. The CBC looks at numbers of various different types of white blood cells.

White Blood Cell Count (WBC): the total number of white blood cells in a quantity of blood. A healthy adult normally has 4,000-11,000 white blood cells/mm3. A WBC increase often indicates that a person is actively fighting an infection or has recently received a vaccine. Decreased WBC (leukopenia) can leave a person vulnerable to various pathogens and cancers.

Differential: a report of the proportions of different types of white blood cells as a percentage of the total number of white cells; these percentages may be multiplied by the WBC to obtain absolute counts.

Eosinophils: cells that play a role in defense against parasites and in allergic reactions. They normally make up 0-6% of all white blood cells.

Basophils: another type of cell involved in allergic reactions, in particular the release of histamine. They normally account for 1% or less of all white blood cells.

Platelets

Folic Acid:

B12 and folic acid blood testing help doctors diagnose central nervous system disorders, anemia, and malabsorption syndromes. B12 and folic acid also play an important role in energy level, muscle strength and memory. Because B12 and folate are derived solely from dietary intake, such as egg yolks, beef, poultry and fish, many people are deficient in these important vitamins.

Vitamin B-12 Level:

Vitamin B-12 is an essential vitamin. Low blood levels of B12 can cause: Anemia and pernicious anemia, loss of balance , numbness or tingling in the arms and legs, and weakness

Iron & TIBC:

The serum iron test measures the amount of iron in your blood. The total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) test looks at how well the iron moves through your body. Iron is an important mineral that your body needs to stay healthy. Your body uses iron to make hemoglobin, the protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. If you don't have enough iron, you may not have enough hemoglobin. This condition is called iron deficiency anemia. Iron in your body is carried, or bound, mainly to a protein made by your liver called transferrin. The TIBC test is based on certain proteins, including transferrin, found in the blood. Your transferrin levels are almost always measured along with iron and TIBC.

Ferritin:

Ferritin is a protein found in the bloodstream which stores iron. Ferritin helps in transporting iron where it's most needed in the body. Too much or too little ferritin can cause a lot of health issues and that's why you should check it often. The levels of ferritin in the body are different for men and women. For example: - Men - 24 - 500 ng/ml of blood - Women - 22 -200 ng/ml of blood. However, many people may have anemia symptoms at the lower end of the "normal" range.

IMPORTANT: Discounted Labs only serves these states: Find a Location

DiscountedLabs.com offers affordable blood tests you can order online in the United Sates without the need of a doctor's order. We have no hidden fees and have an easy ordering process.

HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?

Go to the "Find a Location" page to find the closest lab location. No need to make an appointment since walk-ins are welcomed. Once you have identified your closest location, go to step 2.
NOTE: We serve all states in the U.S. except New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island. Residents of those states need a written lab order from an in-state provider. Individuals cannot obtain a blood draw in neighboring states.
Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart. If you prefer to save money on bundled tests, we have created "Lab Test Panels" that can help you decide what to order.
If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart.
A $8 lab processing fee will be added to your total.
Pay using a credit card.
You will receive an order confirmation and instructions email on how to download your lab request.
Print lab request form that you downloaded.
Take that form to the closest Quest Diagnostics location with a picture ID. Get your blood drawn.
You will receive an email when the results are ready for you to download.
Note: You cannot place an order under someone else's profile. The profile person's name will appear on the lab order form.
If you have questions, please review our FAQ Page.

If you have further questions, please email [email protected].

$100.50

Annual Physical Lab Test Panel

$86.61

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This annual physicial lab test panel includes the basic blood tests usually included in an annual physical exam for men and women who are healthy and have no underlying conditions:

CBC (Complete Blood Count: Immune Cells, Red Blood Cells/Hematocrit, and Platelets)
CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel: Glucose, liver and kidney function, electrolyte and fluid balance)
Lipids (LDL and HDL Cholesterol, and Triglycerides)
A1c (Glycated Hemoglobin)

Physicians also measure blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, weight, and height. He/she also asks you a few questions to determine your health and family history along with the medications you take, previous surgeries or procedures, and current health complaints you may have.

Complete Blood Count (CBC test)

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP test)

The comprehensive metabolic panel or cmp panel consists of 14 blood tests which serve as an initial medical screening tool to review overall health. The CMP blood test panel functions as a check for kidney function, liver function, and electrolyte and fluid balance.

Lipid Panel (Cholesterol Test)

The lipid panel valuates the risk for developing atherosclerosis (arterial plaque) and coronary heart disease. This test includes: Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides , HDL Cholesterol, LDL Cholesterol, Total Cholesterol/HDL Ratio. This test requires fasting for 8 hours.

A1C Test (Glycated Hemoglobin)

The A1c test works by measuring the hemoglobin A1c level. Hemoglobin is stored in the red blood cells. When glucose levels are high, the sugar starts to combine with the hemoglobin. It takes the body 8 to 12 weeks to bring hemoglobin A1c levels back to normal. Therefore, if hemoglobin A1c levels are high, that means that there has been a high level of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months.

IMPORTANT: Discounted Labs only serves these states: Find a Location

DiscountedLabs.com offers affordable blood tests you can order online in the United Sates without the need of a doctor's order. We have no hidden fees and have an easy ordering process.

HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?

Go to the "Find a Location" page to find the closest lab location. No need to make an appointment since walk-ins are welcomed. Once you have identified your closest location, go to step 2.
Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart. If you prefer to save money on bundled tests, we have created "Lab Test Panels" that can help you decide what to order.
If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart.
A $8 lab processing fee will be added to your total.
Pay using a credit card.
You will receive an order confirmation and instructions email on how to download your lab request.
Print lab request form that you downloaded.
Take that form to the closest Quest Diagnostics location with a picture ID. Get your blood drawn.
You will receive an email when the results are ready for you to download.
Note: You cannot place an order under someone else's profile. The profile person's name will appear on the lab order form.
If you have questions, please review our FAQ Page.

If you have further questions, please email [email protected].

$86.61

Arthritis Panel

$98.56

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This panel includes:

Sedimentation Rate (Westergren) – Helps to determine whether a condition causing inflammation is present.

Anti-Nuclear Antibody (ANA) – Test that measures the amount and pattern of abnormal antibody that work against the body's tissues (autoantibody).

Rheumatoid Factor – Used to help support a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

C-Reactive Protein (CRP) – Helps to diagnose and monitor the activity of some inflammatory and infectious conditions.

Uric Acid, Serum – This test measures the amount of uric acid in a blood sample. Uric acid is produced from the breakdown of your body's cells and from the food you eat. High uric acid could be a sign of gout.

What is Arthritis? - Everything You Need To Know

Arthritis is a general term that refers to joint pain and condition. Frequently though, arthritis is misunderstood as a single disease. There are over 100 types of arthritis and the conditions that result from them, and people affected, regardless of age, can develop associated severe illnesses and many disabilities.

The joints are the areas of the body where two bones meet, and their role is to provide mobility to the limbs connected by the respective bones of the joint. Arthritis means inflammation of one or more joints, accompanied by pain called arthralgia.

People of all ages and genders can have and have arthritis. Even though you may think that arthritis occurs only with age, this is not the only trigger. The condition can also occur as a result of a severe blow or physical exertion by athletes.

More than 120 million adults and nearly 600,000 children worldwide have arthritis or some other type of rheumatic disease. Estimates include only patients who report having doctor-diagnosed arthritis.

In the United States, only an estimated 54.5 million people are affected by arthritis, this being the primary reason for disability. The number of people with arthritis is unknown, as many do not seek treatment until their symptoms become severe.

What Causes Arthritis?

The causes of arthritis depend on the form of the condition. Arthritis types vary from those caused by the rupture and wear of the cartilage to those caused by the inflammation resulting from an overactive immune system, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Types of Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that can affect your quality of life quite seriously. For example, severe arthritis limits movement to such an extent that the affected person can no longer easily stand or stand in certain positions. The most common diagnosed arthritis types are:

Inflammatory arthritis-inflammation occurs without a valid physiological reason, on the surface of the joints and in the superficial layer of the bones. Inflammatory arthritis is classified as reactive arthritis, spondylosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Connective tissue disease- is a form of arthritis manifested by inflammation and local pain. It can affect the skin, kidneys, muscles, or lungs, and the most common form of connective tissue disease are scleroderma lupus.

Degenerative arthritis or Osteoarthritis- mainly affects the cartilage that covers the bones and leads to their inflammation. As a result, the cartilage becomes thinner, thicker, and more porous. To compensate for the loss of cartilage, the body's reaction is to reshape the affected bones, leading to abnormal bone growths, called osteophytes, and deformities of the joints.

Metabolic arthritis- occurs due to the accumulation of purines, substances that are naturally produced by the body and are found in foods such as red meat, sweets, and seafood. People who overeat these purine foods have high uric acid levels, which build up in the joints and cause local pain.

Septic arthritis- mainly affects the knee and hip. Streptococcus and staphylococcus are the leading causes of acute septic arthritis, and candida frequently leads to chronic septic arthritis. Joint problems, bacterial infections, or diseases such as diabetes and autoimmune diseases are risk factors for septic arthritis.

Psoriatic arthritis- is a common symptom in people living with psoriasis. The disease occurs when the immune system attacks the body's healthy cells in most cases. As a result, inflammation builds up in the joints. In general, people with psoriatic arthritis have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, high triglycerides, and obesity.

How Can You Detect Arthritis?

Diagnosing arthritis may be a difficult thing do. There Are so many types of arthritis and disorders associated with it one test may not be enough to detect it.

Therefore, there were developed tests packages to diagnose better and monitor a possible arthritis disorder.

Your physician may ask you to perform a set of blood tests, review your medical history, check your joints, X-ray, ultrasounds closely, and sometimes MRI may also be needed. In some instances, arthrocentesis is required. The latter is a procedure that tests a sample of liquid from your joints.

What are The Symptoms of Arthritis?

Common symptoms of joint arthritis include:

swelling
pain in one or more joints
stiffness
decreased joint mobility
low-grade fever
fatigue
lose weight

Symptoms may appear and disappear and may be mild, moderate, or severe. They can stay the same for years and then progress quickly. Severe arthritis can lead to chronic pain, inability to do daily activities, and difficulty walking or climbing stairs.

Arthritis can cause permanent changes in the joints. These changes may be visible, such as a knot in the joints of the fingers, but often the damage can only be seen by X-rays.

Some types of arthritis also affect other body parts, such as the heart, eyes, lungs, kidneys, and skin.

Essential Blood Tests in Diagnosing Arthritis

Sedimentation Rate (Westergren) - This test is meant to measure the level of inflammation. It measures the rate at which red blood cells sink into a vial, which may indicate if inflammation is present in your body. Higher levels may indicate inflammation in your body; however, this won't indicate its localization or what causes it if taken alone. This is why this test is accurate alongside other tests.

Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) - May indicate the presence of Lupus Autoimmune Disease or other Rheumatic Diseases. This test may occasionally be positive in a person without rheumatic disease. 95% of persons diagnosed with SLE or Lupus have a positive test.

Rheumatoid Factor - Usually used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. Note: some persons that have rheumatoid arthritis may never test positive. On the other hand, in the early stage of the RA, the test's result may be false negative. Hence it is important to have the test repeated if needed and performed alongside other relevant tests.

C-Reactive Protein (CRP)- This test measures the inflammation in your body, measuring a particular protein that may be found in the blood. Increased levels may show inflammation or acute infection.

Uric Acid, Serum - This test is usually undertaken to detect cases of gout.

These tests have to be interpreted by a doctor, and medication should be followed only at their recommendation.

Order Your Tests Now

Depending on your particular situation, symptoms, and suspected diagnosis, your doctor may order several types of tests. Unfortunately, there is no single test to diagnose all types of arthritis.

Instead, a combination of these different types of tests is often needed, and more importantly, it is most effective in finding all the clues required for an accurate diagnosis.

Coming in your help, DiscountedLabs.com has developed an arthritis panel that comprises the most common tests doctors recommend to identify your problem and start work from there for your health.

$98.56

Autoimmune Antibodies: ANA Screen, IFA, with Reflex to Titer and Pattern

$42.00

ANA Screen: Autoimmune Antibodies

This test measures ANA Screen, IFA, with Reflex to Titer and Pattern - Antinuclear antibodies are associated with rheumatic diseases including Systemic Lupus Erythematous (SLE), mixed connective tissue disease, Sjogren's syndrome, scleroderma, polymyositis, CREST syndrome, and neurologic SLE.

An ANA test looks for antinuclear antibodies in your blood. If the test finds antinuclear antibodies in your blood, it may mean you have an autoimmune disorder. An autoimmune disorder causes your immune system to attack your own cells, tissues, and/or organs by mistake.

Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are a group of autoantibodies produced by a person's immune system when it fails to adequately distinguish between "self" and "nonself." The ANA test detects these autoantibodies in the blood.

ANA react with components of the body's own healthy cells and cause signs and symptoms such as tissue and organ inflammation, joint and muscle pain, and fatigue. ANA specifically target substances found in the nucleus of a cell, hence the name "antinuclear." They probably do not damage living cells because they cannot access their nuclei. However, ANA can cause damage to tissue by reacting with nuclear substances when they are released from injured or dying cells.

The ANA test is one of the primary tests for helping to diagnose a suspected autoimmune disorder or rule out other conditions with similar signs and symptoms. The ANA test may be positive with several autoimmune disorders. Patients with the autoimmune disorder systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are almost always positive for ANA, but the percentage of patients with other autoimmune disorders who have positive ANA results varies. Also, a significant number of patients with a variety of other types of disorders (and even some healthy people) may be positive for ANA, especially at low levels.

The ANA test is ordered when someone shows signs and symptoms that a healthcare practitioner suspects are due to a systemic autoimmune disorder. People with autoimmune disorders can have a variety of symptoms that are vague and non-specific and that change over time, progressively worsen, or alternate between periods of flare ups and remissions.

Autoimmune Disorders Signs and Symptoms:

Low-grade fever
Persistent fatigue, weakness
Arthritis-like pain in one or more joints
Red rash (for lupus, one resembling a butterfly across the nose and cheeks)
Skin sensitivity to light
Hair loss
Muscle pain
Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
Inflammation and damage to organs and tissues, including the kidneys, lungs, heart, lining of the heart, central nervous system, and blood vessels

What does the ANA screen test results mean?

A positive ANA test result means that autoantibodies are present. In a person with signs and symptoms, this suggests the presence of an autoimmune disease, but further evaluation is required to assist in making a final diagnosis. Again, some people without disease can have a positive ANA test.

$42.00

Blood Donation Panel

$41.91

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This blood donation panel includes these tests: Hematocrit, iron & total iron binding capacity (TIBC), and ferritin.

This panel is designed to determine if:

1- Your blood donation or therapeutic phlebotomy was effective in lowering your high hematocrit without negatively affecting ferritin or iron.

2- It is safe to do another blood donation or therapeutic phlebotomy depending on ferritin or iron levels.

What is Hematocrit?

Hematocrit is the portion of blood made up of red blood cells.

High hematocrit occurs when there is an excessive production of red blood cells. High hematocrit can cause the blood to become very viscous or "sticky," making it harder for the heart to pump. High blood pressure, strokes and heart attacks can occur.

Testosterone Therapy and High Hematocrit

The association between testosterone replacement therapy and high hematocrit has been reported for the past few years as this therapy has become more mainstream. In addition to increasing muscle and sex drive, testosterone can increase the body's production of red blood cells. This hematopoietic (blood-building) effect could be a good thing for those with mild anemia.

Although all testosterone replacement products can increase the number of red blood cells, the study showed a higher incidence of higher hematocrit in those using intramuscular testosterone than topical administration (testosterone patch was the main option used -- no gels). Smoking and sleep apnea have also been associated with polycythemia and may contribute to the effects of other risk factors like TRT.

It's important to check patients' hemoglobin and hematocrit blood levels while on testosterone replacement therapy. As we all know, hemoglobin is the substance that makes blood red and helps transport oxygen in the blood. Hematocrit reflects the proportion of red cells to total blood volume. A hematocrit of over 52 percent should be evaluated. Decreasing testosterone dose or stopping it are options that may not be the best for assuring patients' best quality of life, however. Switching from injectable to transdermal testosterone may decrease hematocrit, but in many cases not to the degree needed.

Different medical guideline groups that recommend monitoring for testosterone replacement therapy agree about measuring hematocrit at month 3, and then annually, with some also recommending measurements at month 6 after starting testosterone.

How to Lower Hematocrit with Blood Donations- Warning

Many patients on testosterone replacement who experience polycythemia do not want to stop the therapy due to fears of re-experiencing the depression, fatigue and low sex-drive they had before starting treatment. For those patients, blood donation or therapeutic phlebotomy may be the answer. Therapeutic phlebotomy is very similar to what happens when donating blood, but this procedure is prescribed by physicians as a way to bring down blood hematocrit and viscosity when blood centers refuse to accept a blood donor because of his high hematocrit.

When donating blood, usually a unit of blood is extracted from the body. For every unit of blood donated or extracted through therapeutic phlebotomy, there is a 2-3 point decrease in hematocrit. If your hematocrit is 56 and you want to bring him under 50, you would have to give 2 to 3 units of blood. However, taking this much blood out in one single blood donation/phlebotomy session may deplete ferritin and iron levels which can cause extreme fatigue. So, be conservative and only give 1 unit max even if you have to go more frequently. But be aware that the Red Cross has stated that blood donations done more frequently than every 2.5 months run the risk of lowering your ferritin and iron too much (which can cause fatigue), so make sure that you get a ferritin test to determine if you should take an iron supplement after donating or to make sure that ferritin is not low before the next blood donation. It is estimated that one unit of blood extracted can lower ferritin by 30 points. Ferritin levels under 45 have been linked to fatigue and other symptoms.

$41.91

Bodybuilder Lab Test Panel- Basic

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This panel provides smart bodybuilders with information that can help minimize potential short and long term side effects and risks. This basic bodybuilder panel includes the following tests/panels:

Hematocrit Test:

All androgens like testosterone and AAS can increase red blood cells and its proportion in the blood (hematocrit), which can increase blood thickness. This panel is important since it determines when you are reaching a hematocrit of 53, the value that indicates that blood donation or therapeutic phlebotomy is needed. High hematocrit increases blood thickness which can cause high blood pressure, headaches, and cardiovascular risks.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

A CMP lab test is used to evaluate several body processes and functions, including:

Liver and kidney health
Blood sugar levels
Blood protein levels
Acid and base balance
Fluid and electrolyte balance
Metabolism (glucose)
Side effects of some medications

Fasting is required.

Testosterone, Total, LC/MS and Free (Equilibrium Ultrafiltration)

This panel includes total testosterone measured by the most accurate method (LC/MS: liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry), free testosterone percent by equilibrium ultrafiltration, and free testosterone calculated from percent free T. No upper limit, so it is adequate for men on high testosterone or AA doses. The LC/MS assay also prevents interference of anabolics and biotin on testosterone blood levels.

Estradiol , Ultra Sensitive (LC/MS) Blood Test

Cystatin C with EGFR Kidney Test

Cystatin C is a more accurate way to determine kidney function in people with higher muscle mass since using creatinine as the main variable can be affected by not only higher muscle mass but also protein intake and creatine supplementation. Another one of the measures of kidney function is the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Glomerular filtration rate describes the flow rate of filtered fluid through the kidney. Creatinine clearance rate (C_Cr or CrCl) is the volume of blood plasma that is cleared of creatinine per unit time and is a useful measure for approximating the GFR. eGFR under 60 may indicate issues that are affecting kidney function.

Lipid Test Panel

This panel includes LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides (fatty acids dissolved in the blood). Higher dose T and AAS can increase LDL, and decrease HDL and triglycerides. Severely decreased HDL may cause cardiovascular issues in the long term. Fasting is required.

For a more comprehensive bodybuilder panel, check this one out: Comprehensive Bodybuilder Panel

Also look at the Post Cycle Therapy panel

FREE BONUS: 386 page EBook: Beyond Testosterone

Suggested Reading: Testosterone Replacement Blood Test Targets

How does DiscountedLabs.com work: Click here

$190.71

Bodybuilder Lab Test Panel- Comprehensive

$318.84

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Bodybuilders using testosterone and anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) have to be smart about maximizing benefits and minimizing short and long term side effects while exercising and eating effectively for proper muscle gain, fat loss, and quality of life. Harm reduction is key especially in the presence of barriers to care caused by stigma and judgement from medical practitioners. Here is a list of 14 carefully selected lab tests and panels that are essential in maintaining proper health while improving body composition and strength:

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

A complete blood count (CBC) test panel measures several components of your blood including:Red blood cells, which carry oxygen, White blood cells, which fight infection, Hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells, Hematocrit, the proportion of red blood cells to the fluid component in your blood (which correlated with blood thickness), and Platelets, which help with blood clotting

All androgens like testosterone and AAS can increase red blood cells and its proportion in the blood (hematocrit), which can increase blood thickness (polycythemia). This panel is important since it determines when you are reaching a hematocrit of 53, the value that indicates that blood donation or therapeutic phlebotomy is needed. High hematocrit can cause high blood pressure, headaches, and cardiovascular risks.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

The comprehensive metabolic panel or cmp panel consists of 14 blood tests which serve as an initial medical screening tool to review overall health. The CMP blood test panel functions as a check for glucose, kidney function, liver function, electrolyte and fluid balance. FASTING IS REQUIRED.

Lipid Test Panel

Cystatin C with EGFR Kidney Test

GGT Liver Test

The GGT blood test looks for an enzyme, or protein, called gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) in your blood. GGT is found in liver cells. This test helps your doctor look for possible damage to your liver or its ducts. It can also help tell the difference between liver and bone disease if your results from a different blood test called alkaline phosphatase are abnormal. Higher than normal test results could be a sign of liver damage from diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, tumors, or pancreatic cancer. The good thing about GGT (unlike liver enzymes included in the CMP like AST and ALT) is that resistance exercise does not affect its value, so it is a more accurate way to detect liver disease in bodybuilders.

Total Testosterone by Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry, plus Free Testosterone by Equilibrium Ultrafiltration.

Men with high testosterone cannot use the regular total testosterone test based on immunoassays since it has an upper limit of 1,500 ng/dL. The LC/MS testosterone test does not have an upper limit. Also, some labs offer calculated free testosterone instead of the equilibrium ultrafiltration-based one which is more accurate for this important variable.

Ultra-Sensitive Estradiol (E2) Test

The commonly used estradiol test may overestimate estradiol. That test uses immunoassay technology that cannot differentiate C-Reactive Protein (involved in inflammation) from estradiol, so it reads the combination of the two as estradiol. This ultrasensitive estradiol test is based on liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS), an assay technology that does not have that limitation. Furthermore, DHT analogs like oxandrolone may dramatically decrease estradiol causing joint aches and other low estradiol issues. Note: 0.4 percent of total testosterone aromatizes to estradiol. This is the body's way to balance testosterone's negative effect on lipids with estradiol's benefitial effect on lipids. If you total testosterone is high, so will your estradiol. Be very careful in assuming that an aromatase inhibitor is needed. For more information click on effect of high and low estradiol in men's health. How to predict estradiol for different testosterone doses.

Prolactin Test

Many bodybuilders worry about increased prolactin since it has been associated with erectile dysfunction.

DHT Test

This test measures the amount of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the blood. Low DHT has been associated with low libido and high DHT has been linked to acne, hair loss and benign prostatic inflammation in a minority of men.

IGF-1 Test

Insulin-like Growth Factor 1, also known as IGF-1, is used as a biomarker for blood levels of human growth hormone. It is a hormone produced by the liver and other tissues which affects growth-promoting activities and glucose metabolism. Low IGF-1 may impede muscle growth.

Ferritin Test

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron. Red blood cells need iron to form normally and carry oxygen around your body. Low levels of ferritin lead to anemia. TRT and anabolics make the body make more red blood cells (erythrocytosis). This increased production decreases iron stores and ferritin.

Testosterone has been shown to decrease ferritin. Men on TRT and/or anabolics with high hematocrit (increased blood thickness caused by TRT/anabolics) usually donate blood or get a therapeutic phlebotomy to decrease hematocrit. There is a loss of around 30 points of ferritin during every donation. Low ferritin can cause fatigue, restless leg syndrome, muscle aches and other issues.

You can add LH + FSH if off cycle. We also provide a Post PCT Panel for people to find out if their hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis has recovered after a few weeks of PCT.

Other tests that may be of interest:

PSA

Thyroid Panel

FREE BONUS: EBook: Beyond Testosterone

Suggested Reading: Testosterone Replacement Blood Test Targets

How does DiscountedLabs.com work: Click here

$318.84

Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel

$187.74

The Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel includes:

Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides, HDL, LDL and Cholesterol/HDL ratio
LDL Particle Number
LDL Peak Size
LDL Pattern
HDL Large
LDL Small
LDL Medium
Apolipoprotein B
Lipoprotein (a)

Results for this test take 2 weeks to receive.

It is recommended to fast for 12-14 hours before getting your blood drawn for this test.

The Cardio IQ® Report provides an in-depth assessment of cardiovascular risks to help physicians recommend the ideal individualized treatment option for patient to minimize cardiovascular disease.

The report is simple, yet comprehensive. It is color-coded to display progressive risk values versus goal using “optimal,” “moderate,” and “high-risk” categories and grouped by functional categories.

This advanced test uses a technology called Ion mobility. This test goes far beyond your basic lipid test, for starters this test helps to reclassify a patient’s cardiovascular risk. Nearly half of all heart attack patients were found to have no prior risk which would indicate they were heading toward an attack. Cardio IQ Ion Mobility tests directly detects, measures and quantifies the number and size of all lipoprotein subfractions. Knowing what particles make up your LDL and HDL cholesterol may be important. Ion Mobility Technology provides subclass separation that will allow your healthcare provider to identify your cardiovascular risk over time. Following the change in your lipid profile as you respond to diet, exercise and possible medication to reduce your cardiovascular risk is important. Ion Mobility provides the opportunity to determine if treatment is working and if not, optimize the aggressiveness of therapy to hopefully make a difference that can be seen in the Ion Mobility measurement and graphical representation of your LDL and HDL particles.

Ion mobility technology precisely quantifies lipoprotein fractions across the entire lipoprotein spectrum; this comprises very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), intermediate-density lipoprotein (IDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles. Ion mobility identifies 2 main subclasses of HDL: large HDL and small HDL. The antioxidant properties of large HDL may help protect the arterial wall. A decreased large HDL subclass has historically suggested increased CVD risk.

An elevated total LDL particle number is associated with a 1.2 to 1.4-fold increase in cardiovascular disease risk. Similarly, elevated small and medium LDL particle numbers have been associated with a 1.2 to 1.4-fold increase.

DiscountedLabs.com offers affordable blood tests you can order online in the United Sates without the need of a doctor's order. We have no hidden fees and have an easy ordering process.

HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?

Go to the "Find a Location" page to find the closest lab location. No need to make an appointment since walk-ins are welcomed. Once you have identified your closest location, go to step 2.
Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart. If you prefer to save money on bundled tests, we have created "Lab Test Panels" that can help you decide what to order.
If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart.
A $8 lab processing fee will be added to your total.
Pay using a credit card.
You will receive an order confirmation and instructions email on how to download your lab request.
Print lab request form that you downloaded.
Take that form to the closest Quest Diagnostics location with a picture ID. Get your blood drawn.
You will receive an email when the results are ready for you to download.
Note: You cannot place an order under someone else's profile. The profile person's name will appear on the lab order form.

If you have further questions, please email [email protected].

$187.74

CBC - Complete Blood Count

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This CBC panel includes differential.

Tests included:

White blood cell count (WBC or leukocyte count)
WBC differential count
Red blood cell count (RBC or erythrocyte count)
Hematocrit (Hct)
Hemoglobin (Hbg)
Mean corpuscular volume (MCV)
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH)
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC)
Red cell distribution width (RDW)
Platelet count
Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)

Complete Blood Count

Red Blood Cells

Hematocrit (HCT): the proportion of red blood cells as a percentage of total blood volume. A normal hematocrit is 40-55% for men and 35-45% for women. This screening measures how much of your blood is made of red blood cells (RBCs). A hematocrit measurement is useful in identifying anemia, the presence of liver disease, bleeding disorders and red cell production within the circulatory system. Hematocrit increases with altitude adaptation or dehydration. Women generally have lower hematocrit values than men. Some men on testosterone therapy have high hematocrit that can be managed if monitored.

Hemoglobin (HGB): the number of grams of hemoglobin in a deciliter of blood (g/dL). Normal levels in healthy adults are 14-18 g/dL for men and 12-16 g/dL for women. As a rough guideline, hemoglobin should be about one-third the hematocrit. Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein found in red blood cells (RBCs), enabling the cells to carry oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. Measuring hemoglobin gives a picture of the ability of the blood to carry oxygen to every cell of your body. A low hemoglobin level may indicate anemia. Hemoglobin increases with altitude adaptation. In general, women have lower hemoglobin values than men.

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) and MCH Concentration (MCHC): the amount or concentration, respectively, of hemoglobin in an average red blood cell. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) is a calculation of the amount of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin inside your red blood cells (RBCs). A high MCH indicates an increased level of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein, in your RBCs. Increases can be associated with anemia. Often, increased MCH occurs in conjunction with a high mean corpuscular volume—or large red blood cells-which suggest macrocytic anemia. A low MCH indicates that you have a decreased level of oxygen-carrying protein in your red blood cells. Decreases can be associated with certain types of anemia. Often, decreases occur in conjunction with low mean corpuscular volume—or small RBCs—which suggest microcytic anemia. Hypochromic anemia, resulting from hemoglobin deficiency, can be a possibility as well.

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) is the calculation of the percentage of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin in the individual red blood cells (RBCs). A high MCHC indicates an increased level of hemoglobin in your RBCs. Increased MCHC is usually a technical rather than a medical issue. A high level may be caused by distortions in the shape of your RBCs caused by problems in collection, transport or storage of the blood sample. A low MCHC indicates a decreased level of hemoglobin in your RBCs. Decreases can be associated with certain types of anemia, such as iron-deficiency or the hereditary disease, thalassemia.

Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV): the average size, or volume, of individual red blood cells. Conditions such as iron deficiency can lead to smaller than normal red blood cells, while certain vitamin deficiencies and some drugs can produce larger than normal cells. Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is a measurement of the average size of your red blood cells (RBCs). A high MCV indicates large, or macrocytic, RBCs. A high MCV is associated with specific varieties of anemia and can indicate a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folic acid. A low MCV indicates small, or microcytic, red blood cells. A low MCV is associated with anemia, and can indicate an iron deficiency, chronic illness or the hereditary disease, thalassemia.

Red Blood Cell Distribution Width (RDW): a measure of the size and uniformity of red blood cells.

White Blood Cells

White blood cells (WBCs) are the body's protectors. Each of the five varieties of WBCs plays its own specific role in defending your body against illness or injury.

White blood cells (leukocytes) carry out the body's immune responses. The CBC looks at numbers of various different types of white blood cells.

Neutrophils: a type of cell that fights bacterial infections. Neutrophils normally make up about 50-70% of all white blood cells. The risk of bacterial infection increases when the absolute neutrophil count falls below about 500-750 cells/mm3. Neutrophilic granulocytes (“neutrophils”) are the most abundant white blood cell. Neutrophils are an essential component of the immune system. They respond to bacterial infections and other types of inflammation. In an infection, neutrophils seep out of the blood vessels in response to factors released as sites of infection. The predominant cells in pus that we observe in a wound are neutrophils.

Lymphocytes: there are two main types of lymphocytes. B cells produce antibodies that fight foreign invaders in the body, while T cells target infected or cancerous cells and help coordinate the overall immune response. A normal lymphocyte count is about 20-40% of all white blood cells. Lymphocytes are the second most common white blood cell (WBC). Lymphocytes are divided into larger cells that are also known as natural killer lymphocytes and smaller cells known as B and T lymphocytes. Natural killer cells are important in our immune system to defend against tumors and viral infections. They respond to alterations in the surface of tumor cells and infected cells. B and T lymphocytes adapt to infected cells by either a cellular response mediated by T lymphocytes or antibodies mediated by B lymphocytes.

Monocytes: a type of cell that fights pathogens by engulfing and destroying them. Monocytes circulate in the blood for about 24 hours; when they leave the bloodstream and migrate into the tissues, they mature into macrophages. Monocytes and macrophages normally account for 2-10% of all white blood cells. Monocytes, like the other white blood cells (WBCs), originate in the bone marrow, the complex spaces within many of our larger bones. Monocytes are responsible for eating foreign intruders (phagocytosis) and killing infected cells. Monocytes are important in triggering atherosclerosis that affects our arteries and can lead to heart disease and stroke.

Eosinophils: cells that play a role in defense against parasites and in allergic reactions. They normally make up 0-6% of all white blood cells. Eosinophilic granulocytes (“eosinophils”) are part of our immune system’s response to infection including from parasites. Eosinophils, along with basophils and mast cells, are important in allergic responses and in asthma.

Basophils: another type of cell involved in allergic reactions, in particular the release of histamine. They normally account for 1% or less of all white blood cells. Basophilic granulocytes (“basophils”) - are the least common of the five white blood cell types. When activated, basophils secrete or release many compounds including histamine and interleukin-4. Both compounds are important in the allergic response.

Platelets

Platelets (thrombocytes) are necessary for blood clotting. A normal platelet count is about 130,000-440,000 cells/mm3. Low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) -- which can lead to easy bruising and excessive bleeding -- may be caused by certain drugs, autoimmune reactions, accelerated destruction by the spleen, or certain immune diseases. Platelets are the smallest type of cell found in the blood. Platelets help stop bleeding after an injury by gathering around the injury site, plugging the hole in the bleeding vessel and helping the blood to clot more quickly. Platelet counts may be done if you are prone to bruising or if you are about to have surgery. The platelet count may change with bleeding disorders, heart disease, diabetes and inflammatory disorders.

MPV stands for Mean Platelet Volume. Platelet volume varies with the age of the platelets. Newer platelets are larger than older ones.

$19.90

CMP - Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

$18.00

Sodium is one of the body's principal minerals, regulated by the kidneys. It plays an important role in water balance in your body. A high level can be caused by dehydration, excessive salt intake in your diet or certain diseases. A low level of sodium may be caused by diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating. Numerous drugs, including diuretics, certain blood pressure medications and steroids, may alter the sodium level.

2. Potassium (K)

Potassium is one of the body's principal minerals, found primarily inside cells. It helps maintain water balance as well as proper function of nerves and muscles. Low or high levels in the blood are of critical significance and should be evaluated by your healthcare provider. This is especially important if you are taking a diuretic or heart medication. A high level may indicate kidney or liver disease, too much medication or bodily injury, such as a burn. A low level of potassium can develop rapidly, most frequently produced as a side effect of drugs that cause increased urination.

3. Chloride (C)

Chloride is one of the body's minerals involved with water balance. Most body chloride comes from salt in the diet. A high chloride level may mean severe dehydration, certain kidney disorders or hyperventilation. A low chloride level may result from excessive vomiting, diarrhea, severe burns, excessive sweating or kidney failure. Borderline low or high levels of chloride have very little significance.

4. Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

n the body, most of the carbon dioxide (CO2) is in the form of a substance called bicarbonate (HCO3). Therefore, the CO2 blood test is really a measure of your blood bicarbonate level. Changes in your CO2 level may suggest that you are losing or retaining fluid, which causes an imbalance in your body's electrolytes. CO2 levels in the blood are influenced by kidney and lung function. The kidneys are mainly responsible for maintaining the normal bicarbonate levels. The CO2 level is interpreted with other results to aid in medical diagnoses.

5. Albumin (Alb)

Albumin is the largest portion of total blood protein. Decreased blood albumin may indicate many disorders including poor nutrition and advanced liver disease. Modest decreases in albumin may be seen in people with low thyroid gland function and protein-losing conditions.

6. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)

Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme found primarily in bone and the liver. Elevated levels may indicate the presence of bone or liver disorders. It is commonly increased when the bile duct is blocked which may be caused by gallstones.

7. Bilirubin (Bil) Total

Bilirubin is the main pigment in bile and a major product of normal red cell breakdown. It is helpful in evaluating liver function, various anemias and in evaluating jaundice, yellowing of the skin.

8. Aspartate Transaminase (AST)

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme found in the liver and in cardiac and skeletal muscle. AST may rise in liver, heart, and muscle disorders. It can also rise following strenuous, prolonged exercise.

9. Transaminase (ALT)

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme produced primarily in the liver, skeletal and heart muscle. ALT is present in the liver in a higher concentration than AST and is more specific for differentiating liver injury from muscle damage. ALT rises in the instance of liver disease.

10. Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)

Urea, measured as blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is a waste product derived from the natural breakdown of protein in the liver. Urea is excreted in the urine after blood is filtered through the kidneys. The urea nitrogen level reflects both the metabolism of protein and the effectiveness of the kidneys in filtering blood.

The BUN/creatinine ratio is a calculated value derived by dividing the urea nitrogen result by the creatinine result. This ratio can be helpful in determining whether elevated urea nitrogen is due to impaired kidney function or to other factors such as dehydration, urinary blockage or excessive blood loss.

Please Note: If results for BUN and Creatinine are both within the normal reference range, the BUN/Creatinine ratio will not be reported (not applicable). Clinical Significance: The BUN/Creatinine ratio is useful in the differential diagnosis of acute or chronic renal disease.

11. Total Protein

Calcium is one of the most important elements in the body. It is essential for maintenance and repair of bone and teeth, heart function, muscle function, and blood clotting. Ninety-nine percent of the calcium in your body is contained in your bones and only one percent is in the blood. Although most of the calcium in the body is in the bones, the body regulates blood calcium levels very tightly, since its functions are essential to health and performance.

13. Creatinine (Cr) with calculated eGFR

Creatinine is derived from muscles and released into the blood. It is removed from the body by the kidneys. When the creatinine level is elevated, a decrease in kidney function is suggested. For patients 50 years of age and older, and whom identify as African-American the upper reference range for creatinine is approximately 10-15% higher.

Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) is a test for kidney damage. eGFR is calculated using your serum creatinine result, age and gender. Creatinine is not sensitive to early renal damage since it varies with age, gender and ethnic background. If you are African American, your eGFR is estimated differently. Since race is not reported in this screening, you will need to use the reported result that is associated with your race. To get a African American specific result, you can multiply this result by 1.21 to get your true eGFR. The same reference ranges will apply.

14. Glucose

Glucose (“blood sugar”) is the chief source of energy for all cells in the body. Glucose levels are regulated by hormones produced by your pancreas, including insulin. A glucose level outside the optimal range could be a sign that the body is not correctly producing or using insulin. These conditions are hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), prediabetes (elevated blood sugar), and diabetes (high blood sugar). For the most accurate result you should fast (not eat or drink anything but water) for at least 8 hours before your screening. If you were not fasting at the time of your screening, you should interpret your result against an optimal range of less than 140 mg/dL.

When the doctor looks at your report of the cmp blood test panel, he organizes it in his mind according to body systems or possible diseases. The sodium, potassium, chloride, and total carbon dioxide measure the salt and acid base balance of the body. The glucose level is how we diagnose diabetes. The BUN, Creatinine, and BUN to Creatinine ratio tells us how the kidneys are functioning, and also can give us an idea about water balance and possible heart function. The calcium and phosphorus give us information on a possible endocrine disorder called hyperparathyroidism, and also can give information on possible bone disease and malabsorption. The total protein, albumin, globulin, all can point to a liver problem, a kidney problem, or an immune disease. The total direct bilirubin can be abnormal in liver disease and in some blood diseases. The alkaline phosphatase, AST, and ALT can be abnormal in liver disease.

What Tests Are Included in a Complete Metabolic Profile (CMP)?

Now let's go over the cmp blood tests in somewhat more detail.

The Serum Glucose test is how we diagnose diabetes. If the glucose is 126 on a fasting blood draw, meaning the blood was drawn first thing in the morning after an overnight fast, before you ate any breakfast, then you have diabetes. Now, that's assuming that when we repeat the test, we get the same results. It needs to be abnormal more than once.

The Uric Acid test is how we diagnose gout.

The BUN, Blood Urea Nitrogen, can be abnormal in kidney disease, dehydration, and heart failure, as well as malnutrition and liver disease.

The Serum Creatinine is a measure of kidney function. The BUN to Creatinine ratio can give information on the possible cause of the kidney dysfunction, say heart failure or dehydration or decreased kidney blood flow.

The Serum Sodium can be increased in dehydration. The Serum Sodium can be decreased in diuretic therapy and in the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone abbreviated, SIADH. The Serum Potassium can be increased in adrenal insufficiency and acute renal failure, as well as with an inappropriate combination of medicines. Potassium could be decreased in primary aldosteronism, diuretic therapy, and renal tubular acidosis.

The Serum Chloride can be increased in dehydration and renal tubular acidosis, and it can be decreased in congestive heart failure and in primary aldosteronism. The Carbon Dioxide can be increased in primary pulmonary disease, such as severe COPD and in primary aldosteronism. It can be decreased in metabolic acidosis, such as occurs with the diabetic ketoacidosis.

The Serum Calcium can be increased in an endocrine disease called primary hyperthyroidism. It can also be increased in malignancy. However, most of the time, when a person has a high Serum Calcium found unexpectedly, it's simply due to hyperparathyroidism, which can be treated. Now, we can also have a decreased Serum Calcium in hypoparathyroidism and in vitamin D deficiency.

The Serum Phosphorus can be increased in acute or chronic renal failure and decreased in malabsorption and vitamin D deficiency.

The total Serum Protein can be increased in multiple myeloma and sarcoidosis, and it can be decreased in chronic glomerulonephritis, which is a type of chronic renal disease.

The Serum Albumin can be decreased in liver disease, cirrhosis, and in nephrotic syndrome. The total Globulin and the Albumin to Globulin ratio can be increased or decreased due to a number of causes.

The total Bilirubin can be increased in hepatitis, hemolytic anemia, and in blockage of the bile ducts, either the bile ducts within the liver or within the bile duct that drains the gallbladder and the liver. That's what we mean when we say cholestasis or biliary obstruction. The direct Bilirubin is increased in the same things as the total Bilirubin, but the ratio of direct to total gives us clues as to the causes. One of the most common causes of a mildly elevated total Bilirubin found on a routine CMP is a syndrome called Gilbert's disease. Although it's called a disease, it's common, and it doesn't cause any liver damage or any health damage.

The Alkaline Phosphatase can be increased in bone disease and liver disease and decreased in malnutrition and celiac disease.

The AST, and ALT are often called liver enzyme tests. They don't measure liver function, but rather give evidence of liver damage, but they can also be elevated in damage to other parts of the body. They can be increased in liver disease, muscle disease, pancreatitis, and excessive exercise.

More Details on Liver Function Tests

Liver function tests, also known as the hepatic panel, are laboratory tests that help measure how well the liver is working. The liver carries out many vital bodily functions; when it is not working properly, levels of various enzymes, proteins, and other substances in the blood may rise or fall. Elevated liver enzyme levels may be a sign of liver damage caused by factors such as viral hepatitis, heavy alcohol consumption, or drug toxicity.

Alanine transaminase (ALT): formerly called SGPT, ALT is an enzyme normally present in liver cells. When these cells are damaged, ALT is released into the bloodstream. A normal ALT level for adult men is 0-50 International Units per liter (IU/L); levels are somewhat lower in women. While mild elevations are common (especially in people who exercise), an ALT level more than 2.5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) is cause for concern. In general, upward or downward trends in ALT are more informative than a single measurement.

Aspartate transaminase (AST): formerly called SGOT, AST is another liver enzyme that may spill into the blood when liver cells are damaged. AST levels may also be elevated in people with muscle damage. A normal AST level for adult men is 0-45 IU/L.

Bilirubin: bilirubin is a pigment released when red blood cells are broken down. A normal bilirubin level is 0.1-1.5 mg/dL. An elevated level (hyperbilirubinemia) may indicate liver damage, impaired bile flow, or excessive red blood cell destruction. High bilirubin levels can lead to jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes).

Alkaline phosphatase (AP): elevated AP levels may signal obstructed bile flow or bone destruction. A normal level is 35-115 IU/L.

More Details on Kidney Function Tests

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): nitrogen is a metabolic waste product that is normally filtered out by the kidneys and excreted in the urine. A normal BUN is 8-20 mg/dL. Elevations may indicate kidney dysfunction, high protein intake or a body fluid imbalance (e.g., dehydration).

Creatinine: this waste product of protein metabolism is also normally excreted by the kidneys. A normal blood creatinine level is 0.6-1.5 mg/dL. Elevated creatinine levels may indicate kidney damage. Creatinine is used in calculating creatinine clearance (creatinine clearance below 60 may indicate impaired kidney function).

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Test FAQ

Now that you know what a CMP panel contains, let’s find out some answers to some of the questions you might have about it.

1. How Can I Do the CMP Panel Test?

The test is done using a single blood sample. You go to a clinic and draw blood which will be analyzed in a medical laboratory. The doctors will perform the tests above to determine the levels of each substance in your bloodstream. You get the results back in a few business days, and you can compare them against standard reference values.

2. Is the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Test Painful?

In most cases, it's not, but it depends on whether you have a fear of needles or not. Today's doctors are very efficient at drawing blood, so you might not even feel the sting when the needle enters your vein.

3. What If Some Variables or Enzymes Are Out of Normal Ranges?

Once the results are back, and you see that some substances are off the charts, you can go to your healthcare provider for recommendations. If you have high glucose levels, your doctor might recommend starting an exercise regimen as this is known to increase insulin sensitivity and prevent diabetes.

If your calcium levels are low, you might need to eat more dairy products. If your sodium levels are high, you might want to avoid salty foods. These recommendations are based on the specific results of each, so there’s no one-size-fits-all here.

4. Do I Need to Fast Before Doing the Test?

Yes, fasting is mandatory. You should avoid eating and drinking anything else than water for 10-12 hours before doing this test. Fasting is necessary to let the hormonal values return to baseline, so the diagnosis is more accurate.

5. Why Should I Do This Test?

It’s important to do the test to get a broad overview of the hormones and enzymes in your body. If some substances are not in the comprehensive metabolic panel normal ranges, you can take action and prevent more serious health complications. Plus, the test is affordable, quick, and easy to do, so why not taking advantage of it?

6. How Can I Read and Interpret My Results?

The comprehensive metabolic panel normal ranges are published on the internet, and you can find them with a simple Google search. You can also ask your doctor to interpret the results for you as well as checking out this interesting CMP guide on reading your comp metabolic panel.

Ready to Take the Test?

The comp metabolic panel provides one of the best ways to take control of your health. You can order the CMP test online from DiscountedLabs.com and find out how healthy you are in just a few business days, so why not giving it a try?

$18.00

Complete Hormone & Wellness Panel for MEN

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Comprehensive Fatigue Panel

$303.45

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This is the lowest cost fatigue exploration panel offered anywhere.

The causes of fatigue are multifactorial and could involve imbalances in several hormones. This panel includes most hormones and variables involved in the diagnosis and treatment of fatigue. Ordering this panel provides substantial cost savings when compared to ordering each test separately. The panel is useful for men and women. We suggest that you also talk to your physician about getting an order for a sleep study to determine if you have sleep apnea.

TESTS INCLUDED IN THIS PANEL:

TOTAL (LC/MS) AND FREE TESTOSTERONE (Equilibrium Dialysis) (No Upper Limit)

Low testosterone can cause low energy and mood.

THYROID FUNCTION:

Hypothyroidism is often an underdiagnosed cause of fatigue.

Tests:

TSH

Free T3

Free T4

Thyroid Antibodies

GLUCOSE CONTROL:

Hyper and hypoglycemia can affect energy levels.

Test: A1c

ANEMIA AND IMMUNE ISSUES:

Low hemoglobin or high hematocrit can cause fatigue. High white cell count can be indicative of infections which could also cause fatigue.

Test panel:

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test

White Blood Cells (WBC)
A high white blood cell count likely indicates that an infection is present somewhere in the body, whereas a low number might indicate that an infection or disease has slowed the ability of the bone marrow to produce them.

Red Blood Cells (RBC)
A low red blood cell count can indicate anemia, which can lead to fatigue.

Hemoglobin (HGB) and Hematocrit (HCT)
A low hemoglobin number or hematocrit percentage are good indicators of anemia. A high hematocrit can cause blood thickening, high blood pressure and fatigue.

Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)
This test actually measures the size of red blood cells. Larger red blood cells may indicate anemia due to vitamin B6 or folic acid deficiency; smaller red blood cells may indicate anemia due to iron deficiency.

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)
These tests measure the amount of hemoglobin in red blood cells. Both hemoglobin and hematocrit are used to calculate this number. Low levels indicate anemia.

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW)

If anemia is suspected, based on other blood counts, RDW test results are often used together with MCV results to figure out what the cause of the anemia might be.

Platelets

IRON LEVEL, UTILIZATION, AND STORAGE:

Low iron and/or ferritin can cause fatigue.

Tests:

Iron

TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity)

Ferritin

ADRENAL FUNCTION:

Adrenal insufficiency is a common cause of fatigue.

Tests:

Serum Cortisol

DHEA (blood)

Not included but worth considering as a separate add-on to your shopping cart: Vitamin D and Vitamin B-12.

NOTE: If you are taking biotin, please stop it 72 hours before the blood draw since it may interfere with hormone blood tests.

Add-Ons for post-menopausal women: Estrogen and Progesterone. Low estrogen levels many times found in menopause, often result in insomnia and night sweats. Diminished estrogen also causes irritability and mood swings in women which furthers exhaustion. Too little progesterone is also linked to fatigue in women.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON THIS PANEL: FATIGUED? : BUY THESE BLOOD TESTS TO FIND OUT WHY

Blood Tests for Fatigue - What Are They and Why Do You Need One?

Feeling fatigued is one of the most prevalent symptoms people experience daily. This is not a problem if you just worked out hard or didn't sleep well for days. Excessive or chronic fatigue is a real thing, and it can have serious underlying causes.

This is when blood tests for fatigue come into play. It's possible to test a blood sample and find out why you're feeling constantly tired, even after a good night's sleep. Please keep reading to learn more about fatigue, what conditions it might hide, and how blood tests could help you.

The Main Symptoms and Characteristics of Chronic Fatigue

Fatigue itself is a symptom caused by something, but chronic fatigue is more complicated, and it might have accompanying symptoms. For example, many people feel tired without doing hard physical work. Others feel tired every day for weeks or even months on end.

This type of fatigue is also accompanied by a lack of motivation and energy. You aren't in the mood for anything, whether it's about going to work, spending time with your friends, or working out. If you cannot think of a potential reason for your chronic fatigue, chances are that it might have underlying causes.

Chronic fatigue is usually caused by lifestyle factors, medical conditions, or excessive physical exertion. If you haven't worked out hard recently, chances are that the other two aspects might cause your tiredness.

For example, excessive drinking and smoking can make you feel tired. Not eating a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and lean meats can also make you feel fatigued. Lastly, not getting at least 7 hours of sleep every night might be the culprit for your constant tiredness.

Potential Medical Conditions That Cause Fatigue

If you sleep enough, don't smoke cigarettes, and you eat a healthy diet but still feel fatigued, chances are that some underlying conditions are causing the problem. Certain medical conditions can leave you tired and feeling lethargic all day long.

For example, fibromyalgia is known for causing constant fatigue and mild pain in most muscles and joints of the body. The condition is rare, but it has no real cause and can decrease the quality of your life. It's possible to treat it using a particular medication and therapy, but you need to get a positive diagnosis for it first.

Arthritis is also known to cause excessive tiredness. This condition affects joints, tendons, and ligaments. It makes you feel lethargic and confused most of the time. Arthritis is common among seniors, but younger people can have it too.

Autoimmune disorders can also cause excessive fatigue. These are conditions that make the body fight itself. For example, celiac disease and lupus are prevalent autoimmune disorders that affect millions of people worldwide.

If you have an autoimmune disorder, a lot of your energy is spent by your body to fight your own cells and tissues. Not only can this do severe damage, but you also have no energy left for anything else.

Chronic disease such as diabetes also causes fatigue. That's because the insulin your body produces is no longer able to unlock cells to absorb glucose from the blood. As a result, you're left with a lot of sugar in the blood and none in cells where it's supposed to be to give you energy.

Finally, various types of cancers can also leave you without energy. That's because cells use this energy for abnormal mutations that can seriously threaten your health and life. Some cancers don't produce symptoms, and that's why you should run a blood test for fatigue as soon as possible.

How Can Blood Tests for Fatigue Help?

The problem with chronic fatigue is that it can have multiple causes. It's not easy to identify the exact reason you feel tired. For example, some people might live under constant stress, and their cortisol levels are very high regularly. This could cause excessive tiredness in the long run.

You might feel tired because you also have an underactive thyroid gland. The hormones produced by the thyroid are responsible for your body's metabolism and energy production. If the thyroid is not producing enough hormones, you might lack energy and feel tired most of the time.

Some people feel fatigued because they also have too much or too little sugar in their bloodstream. Glucose is also known as blood sugar, and it's a vital energy source. If your body cannot metabolize glucose properly, you might feel lethargic every day.

Another helpful test for fatigue is a complete blood count test panel. This type of test looks at your red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and other useful parameters related to your blood. If you don't have enough red blood cells, this could cause anemia, which means you'll feel tired.

If you feel fatigued and it's not caused by the factors mentioned above, you might also want to do a testosterone test. This vital hormone controls your energy level, cognition, and mood. If you have less testosterone than normal, you might experience chronic fatigue.

As you can see, there are a lot of tests that can be used to determine the cause of your tiredness. Your doctor might run these tests individually, or you can order a comprehensive panel of tests that looks at all these aspects at once.

By doing so, you will know for sure that the root cause of your tiredness will be discovered and diagnosed accurately. The comprehensive panel is highly recommended for people who have struggled with chronic fatigue for months or even years.

Order Your Fatigue Test Today!

It's not fair to struggle with constant tiredness daily. Not only does it decrease the quality of your life, but it also reduces your productivity and makes you feel bad about yourself. You should order a fatigue blood test to see exactly why you're dealing with this problem.

$303.45

DHT - Dihydrotestosterone

$60.00

Diabetes Panel

$158.58

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This panel includes important tests usually prescribed for anyone living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. It includes A1c, CMP, Urinalysis, Insulin and Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT).

Diabetes is a group of diseases that result in blood sugar (glucose) levels that are too high.

Type 1 Diabetes is characterized by the body failing to produce insulin.

Type 2 Diabetes is characterized by failing to produce enough insulin for proper function or by the body not reacting to insulin. Approximately 90 percent of diabetes cases are Type 2.

Gestational diabetes affects pregnant women. It occurs when their bodies have very high glucose levels and not enough insulin to transport it into cells. Often women with gestational diabetes have no symptoms, so testing is important if you are considered an at-risk patient.

A1C Test

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP):

Let's go over the cmp blood tests :

The Serum Glucose test: Serum glucose levels may be high due to diabetes mellitus, strenuous exercise, increased epinephrine, pancreatic disease or an endocrine disorder. A high serum level may also be related to acute myocardial infarction or severe angina, chronic liver disease, or chronic renal disease.

The Uric Acid test: High uric acid levels may indicate gout, renal failure, leukemia, lymphoma, psoriasis, polycythemia, multiple myeloma, kidney disease, and or chronic lead nephropathy. Associated with hyperlipidemia, obesity, hypertension, arteriosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, hypoparathyroidism, acromegaly, and liver disease.

The BUN, Blood Urea Nitrogen, can be abnormal in kidney disease, dehydration, and heart failure, as well as malnutrition and liver disease.

The Serum Creatinine is a measure of kidney function. The BUN to Creatinine ratio can give information on the possible cause of the kidney dysfunction, say heart failure or dehydration or decreased kidney blood flow

The Serum Sodium can be increased in dehydration. The Serum Sodium can be decreased in diuretic therapy and in the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone abbreviated, SIADH.

The Serum Potassium can be increased in adrenal insufficiency and acute renal failure, as well as with an inappropriate combination of medicines. Potassium could be decreased in primary aldosteronism, diuretic therapy, and renal tubular acidosis.

The Serum Chloride: High chloride levels may be attributed to dehydration, renal tubular acidosis, acute renal failure, diabetes insipidus, metabolic acidosis associated with prolonged diarrhea with loss of nahco3, respiratory alkalosis, and some cases of primary hyperparathyroidism. Low serum chloride levels may be due to excessive sweating, prolonged vomiting from any cause or gastric suction, persistent gastric secretion, salt-losing nephritis, aldosteronism, potassium depletion associated with alkalosis, respiratory acidosis

Carbon Dioxide: High levels may indicate respiratory acidosis caused by poor gas exchange or depression of respiratory center; generalized respiratory disease; metabolic acidosis (after severe vomiting in pyloric stenosis, hypokalemic states, or excessive alkali intake). Low levels may indicate compensated respiratory alkalosis, metabolic acidosis in diabetes mellitus, renal glomerular or tubular failure, renal tubular acidosis and intestinal loss of alkali with coexisting increase in c1 and normal anion gap

Serum Calcium: High blood calcium levels may indicate primary and tertiary hyperparathyroidism, malignant disease with bone involvement (in particular metastatic carcinoma of the breast, lung, kidney, multiple myeloma, lymphomas, and leukemia), vitamin d intoxication, milk-alkali syndrome, Paget’s disease with immobilization, thyrotoxicosis, acromegaly, diuretic phase of acute tubular necrosis or dehydration. Low levels of calcium may indicate hypoparathyroidism; vitamin d deficiency, chronic renal failure, magnesium deficiency, prolonged anticonvulsant therapy, acute pancreatitis, anterior pituitary hypofunction, hypoalbuminemia, or inadequate nutrition.

Serum Phosphorus can be increased in acute or chronic renal failure and decreased in malabsorption and vitamin D deficiency. Serum phosphorus concentrations have a circadian rhythm (highest level in late morning, lowest in evening) and are subject to rapid change secondary to environmental factors such as diet (carbohydrate), phosphate-binding antacids, and fluctuations in growth hormone, insulin, and renal function. High levels may indicate osteolytic metastatic bone tumors, myelogenous leukemia, milk-alkali syndrome, vitamin d intoxication, healing fractures, renal failure, hypoparathyroidism, pseudohypoparathyroidism, diabetes mellitus with ketosis, acromegaly, portal cirrhosis, pulmonary embolism, lactic acidosis or respiratory acidosis.

The total Serum Protein can be increased in multiple myeloma and sarcoidosis, and it can be decreased in chronic glomerulonephritis, which is a type of chronic renal disease.

The Serum Albumin can be decreased in liver disease, cirrhosis, and in nephrotic syndrome. The total Globulin and the Albumin to Globulin ratio can be increased or decreased due to a number of causes.

Urinalysis

The Urinalysis test panel screens for a variety of conditions including urinary bladder disease, kidney disease and diabetes. Tests included: Color, Appearance, Specific gravity, pH, Protein, Glucose, Occult blood, Ketones, Leukocyte esterase, Nitrite, Bilirubin, Urobilinogen, and Microscopic examination of urine sediment.

About one-third of people with diabetes have problems with their kidneys. But early and tight control of your blood sugar and blood pressure, plus help from certain medications, can keep these organs working like they should. To check for problems, this test measures if protein is present in your urine, called microalbuminuria. It shows up when small amounts of albumin (the main protein in your blood) seep into your pee. Without treatment to slow the leak (usually blood pressure medications), your kidneys could be damaged and eventually fail.

Insulin Level

Insulin is a substance produced by the pancreas to help stabilize blood sugar levels. This substance acts as a "key" that opens up the cells in your body, allowing them to absorb glucose and use it for energy production.

A typical insulin blood level between meals is 8–11 μIU/mL (57–79 pmol/L)

Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT), Two-hour

The glucose tolerance test is a medical test in which glucose is given and blood samples taken afterward to determine how quickly it is cleared from the blood. The test is usually used to test for diabetes, insulin resistance, impaired beta cell function, and sometimes reactive hypoglycemia and acromegaly, or rarer disorders of carbohydrate metabolism. In the most commonly performed version of the test, an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), a standard dose of glucose is ingested by mouth and blood levels are checked two hours later.

Fasting is required for the diabetes panel. You should not consume food or beverages other than water for at least 8 hours prior to visiting the lab. If you choose not to fast, it may affect your results.

$158.58

ED Blood Test Panel

$205.00

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This Erectile Dysfunction ED panel measures hormones that can affect erectile function. Tests included are:

Prolactin: High levels have been linked to ED and low libido.
Total and Free Testosterone (LC/MS, no upper limit): Low levels have been linked to ED and low libido.
Ultra Sensitive Estradiol: High or low levels have been linked to low libido.
DHT: Low levels have been linked to low libido.
TSH: High levels have been linked to hypothyroidism which has been linked to ED and low libido.
Free T3: Low levels have been linked to ED and low libido.
Free T4: High or low levels in the presence of low free T3 may be linked to low libido.

What is ED and How Can it Be Treated?

Erectile dysfunction (also known more commonly as impotence or sexual dysfunction) is the inability to maintain a sufficiently rigid erection for a satisfying sexual experience.

According to the Global Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Behaviors, erectile dysfunction affects approximately 5-28% of men aged 40-80 years. The study was done on adults from 29 different countries.

This health issue has been clearly defined back in 1992, but it has been observed and recorded for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians had papyrus drawings of sexual positions as well as remedies and cures for afflictions known as “weakness of the male member”.

Sexual dysfunction can be diagnosed by questionnaires or lab testing and there are numerous ways of managing and improving its symptoms.

Erectile dysfunction causes

This type of health problem can have multiple causes and the most common ones are:

Pharmacologic – caused by different types of medications such as antidepressants, analgesic narcotics, antiulcers, antihypertensives, etc. There are more than 200 medications which have been associated with sexual dysfunction and some of them decrease the testosterone levels which in turn lower erection rigidity, sex drive, etc.
Endocrinologic – this refers to testosterone deficiency and hypogonadism. Testosterone replacement therapy could help in this case, but it might not be sufficient to achieve hard erections, and it must be combined with other treatment options. Diabetes is a disease which might be linked to ED because it causes damage to the microvasculature of the body as well as the nervous system.
Neurogenic – caused by aging or neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. Neurogenic causes refer to damages to the nervous system and can include strokes, injuries to spinal cord, etc. These health problems can severely affect erection quality regardless of age.
Vasculogenic – affections such as arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure, high triglyceride levels can also cause erectile dysfunction. Men with blood pressure higher than 130/85, a body mass index over 30 as well as triglycerides over 150 mg/dL are at risk of developing ED at some point in the future.
Psychogenic – this refers to improper stress management, feelings of guilt, shame, depression, anxiety, lack of self-confidence, internal sexual conflict, etc. Men who have very stressful lives are more likely to have weak erections as well as poor libido.

It is worth mentioning that unhealthy habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise can drastically increase the likelihood of developing impotence for men of all ages.

Before treating ED, doctors first assess the health of the cardiovascular system (heart, veins, and arteries) to determine if it is healthy enough for proper sexual activity. A high cardiac risk might indicate that the patient needs treatment for a heart condition first, before receiving treatment for erectile dysfunction.

Sexual dysfunction management and treatment options beyond testosterone

Impotence or sexual dysfunction is treated in small steps and it begins by changing lifestyle risk factors such as quitting smoking, lowering alcohol consumption, switching to a healthier diet, engaging in regular physical activities, etc.

PDE-5 inhibitors

The next step is to take advantage of first-line medical therapies such as using phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5Is). These substances lead to increased smooth muscle tone and should be taken approximately 1 hour before sexual intercourse and up to 12 hours for T a d a l a f i l.

These PDE-5 inhibitors are known to be safe and can be used by men of all ages, except for those who take nitrates on a daily basis. Some people respond better to certain types of inhibitors, so trying more than just a single substance is recommended for achieving the desired results.

Vacuum Erection Device

There are numerous types of vacuum erection devices on the market and most of them generally consist of a cylinder which is placed on the penis and creates an air-tight seal to the body, causing negative pressure and improving blood flow. A constriction band is placed at the base of the penis to maintain an erection and allowing sexual intercourse after the cylinder is removed.

This type of treatment is considered second-line therapy for sexual dysfunction and is a non-invasive way of treating it. Manufacturers create VEDs of various sizes and they ship them with instruction manuals to help patients use the cylinders properly to achieve an erection.

Intraurethral Suppositories

This treatment option consists of inserting small suppositories into the urethra to allow smooth muscle relaxation. The penis is massaged with both hands to allow the corpora cavernosa to absorb the medicine. One of the most common side effects of this treatment option is penile pain, but it can be a practical treatment option for certain people. The first Intraurethral suppository might be administered under medical supervision to prevent unwanted injuries to the shaft.

Intracavernosal Injections

Patients who suffer from erectile dysfunction might also want to try intracavernosal injections which are formulated with a special substance that inhibits vasoconstriction. This allows the patient to achieve a satisfying erection and this method is considered to be one of the safest and most common treatment options for ED.

The first injection is done under medical supervision to avoid damaging important areas of the penis such as the urethra or penile nerves. Once the patients get over the anxiety of having needles into their penis, they can learn how to administer injections on their own.

Bimix, Trimix, and Quadmix injections are good examples of intracavernosal injections for achieving hard erections. They are available by prescription from different pharmacies.

Penile Implant Surgery

The third-line therapy for ED consists of penile implant surgery which means inserting non-inflatable implants into the penis.

There are 2-piece and 3-piece inflatable penile prosthesis which can be inserted into the penis. A small pump is inserted into the scrotum and helps to inflate the implants when an erection is required. Although there is the possibility of developing infections, penile implant surgery is a popular treatment for erectile dysfunction and it can be more cost-effective in the long run.

Conclusion

Although erectile dysfunction is still a taboo subject for some people, this medical condition has been heavily researched, it can be properly diagnosed in a variety of ways, and multiple treatment options have been created to help patients achieve sexual satisfaction. One of the best and easiest ways to diagnose ED is by using blood tests to detect hormone imbalances.

Patients who are not happy with their performance in bed should make the first and most important step and visit a doctor to get more information about ED, getting adequate physical examination as well as treatment. Luckily, medical improvements are made each year and treatment strategies are refined and enhanced, so treating impotence is increasingly safer and easier these days!

DiscountedLabs.com offers affordable blood tests you can order online in the United States without the need of a doctor's visit. We have no hidden fees and have an easy ordering process.

HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?

Go to the "Find a Location" page to find the closest lab location. No need to make an appointment since walk-ins are welcomed. Once you have identified your closest location, go to step 2.
Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart. If you prefer to save money on bundled tests, we have created "Lab Test Panels" that can help you decide what to order.
If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart.
A $8 lab processing fee will be added to your total.
Pay using a credit card.
You will receive an order confirmation and instructions email on how to download your lab request.
Print lab request form that you downloaded.
Take that form to the closest Quest Diagnostics location with a picture ID. Get your blood drawn.
You will receive an email when the results are ready for you to download.

$205.00

Electrolyte Panel

$47.31

The electrolyte panel includes: Carbon dioxide, chloride, potassium, and sodium

What Are Electrolytes?

Electrolytes are electrically charged minerals that help the body manage chemical reactions and maintain the balance between fluids. These substances are located in the fluid in and around the body's cells (intracellular and extracellular fluid). The human body is roughly 60% water, meaning almost every fluid and cell contain electrolytes. They also help the brain send signals to one's muscles, allowing them to move and contract. This is possible since many chemical elements can naturally hold a positive or negative charge. Once those elements are dissolved in liquid, it grants the fluid the ability to conduct electricity. The body then uses positively and negatively charged ions to transport critical chemical compounds in and out of cells. Electrolytes help control nerve and muscle activity, heart rhythm, and other vital functions. Without electrolytes, the body would not be able to maintain homeostasis. Severe disruptions in electrolyte levels can lead to neurological and cardiac complications, resulting in a medical emergency unless quickly resolved.

What Is an Electrolyte Panel?

An Electrolyte Panel is a blood test designed to measure the body's primary electrolytes levels. They are frequently used in routine blood screenings to diagnose fluid imbalances. The test can also be referred to as an electrolyte blood test or serum electrolyte test. Several factors may cause an electrolyte imbalance

Burns
Cancer
Dehydration or overhydration
Diabetes
Heart, liver, or kidney disease
Substance abuse

Some tests are designed to measure the levels of only one kind of electrolyte. Discounted Labs' Electrolyte Panel includes four out of the seven primary minerals:

Bicarbonate moves carbon dioxide through the bloodstream and balances the body's acid/base levels.
Chloride helps regulate the amount of fluid in the body and maintain healthy blood pressure.
Potassium facilitates proper heart, nerve, muscle, and metabolic function.
Sodium controls fluid levels and assists in nerve and muscle function.

Do I Need an Electrolyte Panel?

Your healthcare provider may order an electrolyte panel for a number of reasons. They are commonly used in ordinary checkups to gauge overall health. They are also invaluable in monitoring kidney and liver function, checking heart functionality, monitoring glucose levels in diabetic patients, and diagnosing endocrine conditions. Electrolytes serve a host of essential bodily functions, including maintaining proper pH levels, allowing muscle contractions (including the heartbeat), forming new tissues, and assisting in blood clotting. As these functions are vital to a healthy body, an imbalance of electrolytes has the potential to result in serious medical complications. Imbalances are commonly caused by a significant loss in bodily fluids, such as sweating or vomiting. Some immediate symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance are cramps, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, and mental confusion. If these symptoms persist after replenishing fluids, it may be worth taking an electrolyte panel to pinpoint what minerals you are deficient in to begin treatment.

How Should I Prep for an Electrolyte Panel?

Some blood tests require you to fast for a predetermined time leading up to sample collection; however, this is not the case for electrolyte panels. There are no special preparations needed to take this test. Know that results will vary based on which electrolytes do not fall within the normal range. It is important to remember that just because certain electrolyte levels are too high or low does not mean one has a medical emergency requiring treatment. Certain medicines such as antacids or blood pressure medication can impact the results of an electrolyte panel. Often, the patient must replace fluids they've lost through diarrhea and/or vomiting.

How Should I Interpret My Electrolyte Panel Results?

Age, sex, and preexisting health factors can affect your test results. Electrolytes are measured in millimoles per liter (mmol/L). The general normal ranges for each electrolyte are:

Bicarbonate: 22 to 30 mmol/L
Chloride: 97 to 105 mmol/L
Potassium: 3.7 to 5.1 mmol/L
Sodium: 136 to 144 mmol/L

While abnormal results can be scary to receive, they are not an immediate cause for concern and can fluctuate regularly. Results are typically more beneficial when examining trends from multiple tests over time. This gives the patient a more comprehensive understanding of their electrolyte levels in the grand scheme of things, as opposed to a single data point. Depending on the result of the electrolyte panel, your healthcare provider may other tests known as "blood gas" and "anion gap" tests. The blood gap test measures oxygen, carbon dioxide, and acidity levels in the blood to locate the cause of an acid-base imbalance. The anion gap test measures the difference between the amount of positively and negatively charged electrolytes in the body. As electrolytes depend on a balance of positive and negative charges to transmit signals throughout the body, an anion gap that is too high or low could signify a more severe health problem.

Sources

Balcı, A. K., Koksal, O., Kose, A., Armagan, E., Ozdemir, F., Inal, T., & Oner, N. (2013). General characteristics of patients with electrolyte imbalance admitted to emergency department. World journal of emergency medicine, 4(2), 113.

Cabezas, A. C., & Rojas, Y. C. (2006). ELECTROLYTE PANEL TESTS: AN INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR REGISTRATION AND CONSULTATION.

Costill, D. L., Cote, R., & Fink, W. (1976). Muscle water and electrolytes following varied levels of dehydration in man. Journal of Applied Physiology, 40(1), 6-11.

Maughan, R. J. (1991). Fluid and electrolyte loss and replacement in exercise. Journal of Sports Sciences, 9(S1), 117-142

Wathen, J. E., MacKenzie, T., & Bothner, J. P. (2004). Usefulness of the serum electrolyte panel in the management of pediatric dehydration treated with intravenously administered fluids. Pediatrics, 114(5), 1227-1234.

How to Buy Lab Tests on Discounted Labs

$47.31

Elite Male Blood Test Panel

$519.23

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This is Discounted Labs most comprehensive blood test panel for men. It includes:

· Testosterone, Total and Free LC/MS (no upper limit) (involved in libido, stamina, lean mass, cognitive function, etc. )

· Ultra Sensitive Estradiol (involved in libido, bone density, lipids, and high levels linked to gynecomastia)

· IGF-1 (insulin growth factor) (a metabolite of growth hormone)

· Prolactin (involved in low testosterone, low libido, erectile dysfunction)

· DHT (dihydrotestosterone- involved in libido, acne and hair loss. Low levels have been linked to gynecomastia)

· DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) (involved in stamina, cognitive function, etc.)

· PSA (prostate specific antigen) (a marker of prostatitis or prostate cancer)

· SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) (a strong binder that limits sex hormones)

· Lipids (LDL, HDL, and triglycerides) (involved in heart disease) FASTING REQUIRED

· CBC (complete blood count including hematocrit)

· CMP (comprehensive metabolic panel including kidney and liver function)

· Thyroid Function (involved in stamina, fat, cognitive function, libido, ED, etc.):

o TSH

o Free T3

o Free T4

Elite Male Blood Test Panel

Are you looking for a unique, all-in-one solution to measure the hormone levels in your body? If the answer is yes, then the Elite Male Blood Test Panel might be exactly what you need!

This panel is specially designed to measure virtually all important hormones in a man’s body, leaving nothing out, so you don’t have to buy additional panels.

The Elite Male Blood Test Panel tests everything from testosterone levels, IGF-1, DHEA-sulfate, hematocrit, estradiol, prolactin and more.

What are the advantages of the Elite Male Blood Test Panel?

Besides having the possibility to measure the most important hormones in your body using a single blood sample, this comprehensive panel also comes with other benefits such as:

1. Save time and effort – you don’t have to spend money on other panels or look for specific panels separately

2. Confidential and secure – order the panel online, visit a nearby lab to draw blood and get your results in a couple of business days

3. Know if you’re predisposed to certain illnesses – doing periodic checkups is highly recommended as these tests can identify potential predispositions to various diseases. For example, if you have high fasting glucose levels, you might be more prone to develop type 2 diabetes in the future, and you can prevent that with the right treatment

4. Best bang for your buck – the market offers this panel for at least $800 on average. At DiscountedLabs.com, you can have it at a much lower price

5. Have more peace of mind – your health is more important than anything! By getting this tests panel, you know you have done everything to improve your health and wellbeing

What does the Elite Male Blood Test Panel contain?

As mentioned earlier, this comprehensive panel can measure all the important hormones in your body, helping you find out in which ones there might be a deficiency.

For example, this panel tests the total and free testosterone levels, estradiol, thyroid hormones, metabolic hormones such as triglycerides, red blood cells, white blood cells, etc.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these hormones and substances to find out how they can influence the male body.

Testosterone lab test

One of the most important hormones in a man's body is, of course, testosterone. The Elite Male Blood Test Panel looks at the total and free testosterone levels to determine if deficiencies are present.

The normal testosterone level in men is between 350ng/dL and 1,000ng/dL. Testosterone primarily influences muscle development, sexual desire, mood, motivation, and brain function.

Low testosterone levels don’t only negatively impact one’s sexual desire and motivation, but they also have a strong influence in other areas of life.

It has been determined that testosterone can have anti-depressant qualities and it can improve spatial awareness. Low testosterone can also be closely linked to feelings of anxiety and low coping skills.

If low testosterone levels are discovered in men, this can be corrected with treatments such as testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Testosterone can be applied as gels, creams, pellets or injections.

How to increase testosterone levels

Other methods to increase testosterone levels include:

Minimize cortisol levels (try to get quality sleep and relax more often by practicing yoga, reading or mindfulness)
Eat more lean protein and high-quality, complex carbs
Lift weights – this will also enhance bone density
Lose weight if you are overweight.

Estradiol test

This comprehensive panel also performs includes an ultrasensitive estradiol test. This type of test is more thorough than the regular estradiol test and tries to determine the levels of this sex hormone more accurately.

Estradiol is a female sex hormone present in small quantities in a man’s body. If the quantity of this hormone is too little, the man might experience drops in libido and bone density. If it is in higher-than-normal quantities, estradiol can cause gynecomastia (man boobs), among other problems.

For example, one of the most popular consequences of having too much estradiol in the body (in the presence of low testosterone levels) consists of an increased likelihood to develop erectile dysfunction.

How to normalize estradiol in men

One of the best ways to normalize estrogen (including estradiol) levels is by eating more quality foods such as cruciferous vegetables. Some of these veggies include spinach, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and others. Losing body fat, decreasing TRT dose, splitting TRT injections in smaller more frequent doses, and low dose aromatase inhibitors may also help to normalize high estradiol in men.

IGF-1 test

IGF-1 (Insulin-like growth factor 1) is a protein with a major influence on human health and wellness. This is a metabolite of growth hormone, and it is vital during childhood for proper development of muscles, bones, organs, and tissues.

The insulin-like growth factor hormone is also paramount during adulthood. Optimal levels of IGF-1 can decrease inflammation and increase the number of antioxidants in the body which in turn can increase longevity.

Low levels of IGF-1 have been associated with endothelial dysfunction which might lead to cardiovascular diseases.

How to Increase IGF-1

The good news is that increasing IGF-1 can be done relatively easy by engaging in frequent exercise routines, getting high-quality sleep, and by practicing intermittent fasting.

Intermittent fasting, in particular, can have multiple other positive effects on the body, besides enhancing IGF-1 levels.

Prolactin test

Prolactin is another important hormone tested by the Elite Male Blood Test Panel. This protein is produced by the pituitary gland as well as spleen and thymus.

It is involved in over 300 body processes, and it can be correlated with low testosterone, low libido, and erectile dysfunction in men if it is present in abnormal quantities in the body.

For example, a high secretion of prolactin can impair the normal functioning of the testicles which means that the reproductive system is affected.

Things that Can Increase Prolactin Levels

Prolactin is essential in the body of a man, but only in normal quantities. Elevated prolactin levels can be problematic, and they are usually caused by certain medications as well as pituitary gland tumors. You can decrease prolactin with medications called ergot derivatives.

DHT test

DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is produced in the liver, brain, seminal vesicles, hair, and other organs. The enzyme 5α-reductase triggers the production of DHT from testosterone.

DHT plays a vital role in the development of secondary male sexual characteristics such as pubic and facial hair growth. During puberty, it significantly influences the maturation of the penis, and in adulthood, it is closely linked to a man’s overall sex drive and libido. Low levels of DHT can also lead to the development of gynecomastia.

A high concentration of DHT might kickstart the development of androgenetic alopecia which is a condition that manifests through excessive hair loss. It has been discovered that the hair follicles of people who have androgenetic alopecia are more sensitive to DHT and they react differently.

Tips to normalize DHT in the body

There are several dietary adjustments you can make to normalize the levels of DHT in your body. For example, you can:

· Eat a lot of tomatoes which are naturally rich in lycopene which is a known DHT blocker and will reduce its levels

· Drink more green tea – this beverage has a high level of antioxidants which will normalize DHT levels fairly quickly

· Eat almonds and nuts – these snacks contain zinc and L-lysine which are known for reducing the levels of DHT in both men and women

· Take supplements such as pumpkin seed oil or palmetto pills

· Drink less coffee – a cup of coffee a day is not a problem, but drinking 2-3 or more cups can increase DHT levels

· Creatine supplements have also been shown to increase DHT blood levels

· For men with low DHT blood levels, some physicians prescribe a scrotal testosterone cream that are applied to the scrotum. This area produces more DHT than regular skin.

DHEA-S test

DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate)is the most abundant steroid in the human body. It is produced by the adrenal glands which are situated just above the kidney.

This steroid has a great influence on brain function and stamina. If the DHEA-S levels are insufficient, this can indicate a problem with the adrenal or pituitary glands. Physicians recommend DHEA supplements for people with low DHEA levels in the blood.

PSA test

PSA (prostate specific antigen) is a marker of prostate health and very important to test in men of all ages. This enzyme is produced in the prostate gland and allows the sperm to swim freely and enter the uterus during unprotected intercourse with a female partner.

Men with healthy prostates have small quantities of PSA, but abnormally elevated PSA levels might indicate prostate cancer or prostate infections.

SHBG test

SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) is capable of influencing the bioavailability of sex hormones such as testosterone and estradiol.

If the SHBG levels in men are too high, the free testosterone levels that circulate in the bloodstream will be lower, and this can lead to androgen deficiency.

Lipids test

The Elite Male Blood Test Panel also runs lipid tests to determine the amount of HDL (good cholesterol), LDL (bad cholesterol), and triglycerides in the body.

Cholesterol is paramount for the creation of cells, but if it is present in abnormal quantities in the bloodstream, this can lead to cardiovascular diseases.

Tips to normalize cholesterol levels in the body

Studies show that supplementing with vitamin D and calcium at the same time can significantly improve cholesterol levels.
Similarly, supplementing with niacin can lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol. However, niacin treatments should only be administered under doctor’s supervision as this substance (also known as B3 vitamin) can be liver toxic in excessive quantities.
Another great way to reduce cholesterol levels is to eat garlic. Although it might cause bad breath, the anti-inflammatory properties of garlic will significantly decrease cholesterol levels to normal values.
Physical exercise also has an important influence on the LDL, HDL, and cholesterol levels. For example, a single exercise session managed to lower the levels of triglycerides by 18% after 24 hours in untrained hypercholesterolemic men.
The HDL cholesterol was also increased by approximately 10% after 24 hours of exercise and remained high for a longer period.
The triglycerides are also important and closely linked to heart problems. Decreasing sugar and alcohol intake may help to reduce triglycerides.
It has been discovered that a high fiber intake can have a positive influence on lipids status. Therefore, consuming more foods which have a high fiber value (whole grains, apples, lentils, beans, etc.) can be a good way to reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Tips on improving triglyceride levels

There are a couple of quick dietary changes you can make to ensure that your triglyceride levels drop to normal levels. For example:

· Make sure that you minimize sugar intake – get your sugar from fruits instead of cookies, candies, donuts, pies, ice cream or other refined sugar sources

· Eat fatty fish one or two times per week – salmon and mackerel are considered to be fatty fish

· Avoid trans fats altogether – these can be found in margarine as well as other refined carbs

CBC panel test

CBC (complete blood count) is also measured as part of this panel, including hematocrit which means the volume of red blood cells in the bloodstream.

Several elements are measured in a CBC test such as the amount of red blood cells (which are vital for carrying oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs), white blood cells (responsible with neutralizing viruses and bacteria), RDW (red blood cell distribution), MCV (mean corpuscular volume), and others.

A high MCV count can indicate several health problems such as liver disease, a vitamin B12 deficiency or hypothyroidism.

Blood platelets are also measured during a CBC test. These cells play an important role in blood clotting. Men who have low platelet levels might be at risk of excessive bruising or bleeding as a result of an injury.

CMP test

CMP (comprehensive metabolic panel) looks at a range of metabolic variables which impact the liver and the kidneys.

For example, the albumin levels are measured to determine if there is a sign of liver damage. Sodium and potassium are two important electrolytes which are measured to determine if there is a proper water balance in the body.

Some of the variables measured by the CMP panel include:

· Glucose

· Calcium levels

· Sodium

· Potassium

· Chloride

· CO2

· Albumin

· Total protein

· Blood urea nitrogen

· Creatinine and eGFR

· Bilirubin

· ALP, ALT, and AST (liver tests)

Glucose is the body's main energy source. It is also known as blood sugar content. When the glucose level is too high, this might indicate a predisposition to type 2 diabetes which is a life-threatening disease.

Tips on improving glucose levels

Imprving glucose blood levels can be done relatively easy, but one should be consistent to reach normal glucose levels. For example:

· Avoid refined flour – stay away from most bread, pasta, and anything containing refined flour

· Avoid high-fructose corn syrup – this type of sugar can significantly enhance blood glucose levels

· Reduce alcohol consumption – many alcoholic drinks are sweetened, or they are consumed in combination with sweetened drinks such as Red Bull. Drink less alcohol, and you’ll be fine

Calcium is important for bone density and teeth health. Low levels of calcium in the body, especially in aging men, can indicate a predisposition to osteoporosis and other bone ailments.

On the other hand, too much calcium in the bloodstream can lead to hypercalcemia which can be caused by overly active parathyroid glands, among other causes.

Hypercalcemia can lead to muscle fatigue, excessive urination, and osteoporosis. Lowering calcium levels can be done by drinking plenty of water and by doing strength training which helps improving bone density. If it is caused by high parathyroid hormone, your doctor will prescribe medications to normalize it.

Electrolyte Tests

Chloride and CO2 (carbon dioxide) help to maintain the proper acid-base balance in the body. Very acidic blood circulating through the body might indicate respiratory problems (the lungs aren't able to properly eliminate CO2), alcohol overuse as well as nervous system issues.

Sodium and potassium are two important electrolytes which help to maintain proper water balance in the body. They also sustain correct muscle function and regulate other processes.

Too much potassium can be a sign of kidneys problems since these organs strive to eliminate excessive potassium from the bloodstream. Too much sodium can also make the blood too acidic which leads to numerous other health problems

However, some people don’t have enough potassium in their bodies, but this can be usually corrected through diet.

Tips on improving potassium levels

Try eating potassium-rich foods such as beans, non-fat yogurts, leafy greens, and sweet potatoes. If you love fruit, oranges and bananas are high in potassium too.

Protein Test

Albumin is a protein produced by the liver, and it plays a vital role in muscle strength. Studies show that low albumin levels can be independently associated with a progressive decline in muscle strength in both men and women.

On top of albumin, the Elite Male Blood Test Panel also measures the total levels of serum proteins in the body. This blood test variable can be an important indicator of muscle health since protein is the building block of muscle tissue.

Waste products Test

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is an indicator of kidney or liver disease. Urea is produced as a result of metabolizing proteins and breaking them down into amino acids. This process generates ammonia which is then converted to a less toxic substance called urea.

Urea and nitrogen are both parts of the ammonia and can be used together – urea nitrogen. If the levels of urea nitrogen in the bloodstream are high, this can indicate serious liver damage or a kidney issue.

Creatinine is a byproduct of creatine which is an essential hormone for producing muscle energy. Approximately 2% of creatine is transformed into creatinine on a regular basis.

Normal creatinine levels are between 0.6mg/dL and 1.2mg/dL. The job of the kidney is to filter out the circulating creatinine and dispose of it safely. If the creatinine levels are elevated, this might indicate kidney disease. A creatinine level of approximately 5mg/dL indicatessevere kidney problems.

Bilirubin is another waste product created by the liver as a result of recycling red blood cells. High levels of bilirubin can indicate liver damage because the liver is not capable of eliminating it completely.

Symptoms of high bilirubin include the yellowing of skin and eyes, a condition called jaundice.

The ALP, ALT, and AST are enzymes found primarily in the liver. High levels of some of these enzymes might indicate liver damage.

Thyroid test

There are three important hormones measured by the thyroid test – TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone), T3, and T4. The TSH is produced by the pituitary gland while the other two are produced by the thyroid gland itself.

These hormones regulate multiple body processes and are directly involved in numerous metabolic functions. Improper thyroid hormone levels might result in fatigue, erectile dysfunction, low libido, and more.

For example, the normal TSH levels are between 0.4 and 4.9 mU/L, and they can be influenced by various factors such as stress, diet, medication, exercise level, etc. Some physicians use a TSH level of 2.5 as a cut off to further investigate potential hypothyroidism.

Low TSH levels indicate hyperthyroidism. High TSH levels indicate hypothyroidism. Both these conditions can be treated with the correct medication, but it is important to quantify the TSH levels first.

Similarly, low free T3 levels might indicate hypothyroidism or other significant ailments which might require hospitalization. Low free T4 levels in combination with low TSH levels might indicate that there is a problem with the pituitary gland.

How to Place a Lab Test Order on DiscountedLabs.com?

Keep in mind that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The Elite Male Blood Test Panel provides everything you need to do a complete health checkup and determine if there are hormonal deficiencies in your body.

The next thing to do is to:

1. Order the panel online

2. Wait for your appointment at a nearby lab

3. Draw blood

4. Wait for your results – usually; you'll have them in a couple of business days

5. Visit a professional healthcare provider who will interpret the results for you and make appropriate recommendations

6. Put those recommendations into practice – this might mean to follow certain treatments to reduce/increase hormone levels, etc

7. Enjoy your new and healthier life!

The Elite Male Blood Test Panel strives to bring you the most important hormonal tests that you need to learn valuable information when it comes to your health.

Suggested Reading: Testosterone Replacement Blood Test Targets

$519.23

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Antibodies Panel

$135.45

Epstein-Barr (EB) virus is a herpes group virus that is ubiquitous. It is the cause of classic infectious mononucleosis and is causally implicated in the pathogenesis of Burkitt lymphoma, some nasopharyngeal carcinomas, and rare hereditary lymphoproliferative disorders. The EBV test measures the serologic response to EB virus includes antibody to early antigen, IgM and IgG antibodies to viral capsid antigen (VCA), and antibodies to Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen (EBNA).

Although most cases of infectious mononucleosis can be diagnosed on the basis of clinical findings, blood count and morphology, and a positive EBV test for heterophile antibody, as many as 20% may be heterophile-negative, at least at presentation (Heterophile may become positive when repeated in a few days). In some of these cases, a test for Epstein-Barr virus antibodies may be useful.

The most controversial use of EBV serology is in chronic fatigue syndrome, a complaint predominantly (but not exclusively) of young to middle-aged women, characterized by long persistent debilitating fatigue and a panoply of usually mild somatic complaints. The high levels of EBV antibodies in the general population, their long persistence, and the poor correlation of antibody titers with symptoms combine to make EBV serology useless in diagnosing, following, or ruling out chronic fatigue syndrome. See table in project description.

Test Includes:

Epstein-Barr Virus VCA Antibody (IgM), Epstein-Barr Virus VCA Antibody (IgG), Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen (EBNA) Antibody (IgG)

Methodology

Immunoassay (IA)

Reference Range(s)

Epstein-Barr Virus VCA Antibody (IgM)

U/mL	Interpretation
<36.00	Negative
36.00-43.99	Equivocal
>43.99	Positive

Epstein-Barr Virus VCA Antibody (IgG)

U/mL	Interpretation
<18.00	Negative
18.00-21.99	Equivocal
>21.99	Positive

Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen (EBNA) Antibody (IgG)

U/mL	Interpretation
<18.00	Negative
18.00-21.99	Equivocal
>21.99	Positive

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), also known as human herpesvirus 4, is a gamma herpes virus that occurs only in humans. Laboratory testing can help distinguish whether someone is susceptible to EBV infection or has a recent or past infection.

Healthcare providers can perform a EBV test for antibodies to the following EBV-associated antigens:

Viral capsid antigen (VCA)

Anti-VCA IgM appears early in EBV infection and usually disappears within four to six weeks.
Anti-VCA IgG appears in the acute phase of EBV infection, peaks at two to four weeks after onset, declines slightly then persists for the rest of a person’s life.

Early antigen (EA)
Anti-EA IgG appears in the acute phase of illness and generally falls to undetectable levels after three to six months. In many people, detection of antibody to EA is a sign of active infection. However, 20% of healthy people may have antibodies against EA for years.
EBV nuclear antigen (EBNA)
Antibody to EBNA, determined by the standard immunofluorescent test, is not seen in the acute phase of EBV infection but slowly appears two to four months after onset of symptoms and persists for the rest of a person’s life. Other EBNA enzyme immunoassays may report false positive results.
Monospot test
The Monospot test is not recommended for general use. The antibodies detected by Monospot can be caused by conditions other than infectious mononucleosis. Moreover, studies have shown that the Monospot produces both false positive and false negative results. For example, the heterophile antibodies detected by Monospot are often not present in children with infectious mononucleosis. At best, the Monospot test may indicate that a person has a typical case of infectious mononucleosis, but does not confirm the presence of EBV infection.

Interpretation of EBV Tests

EBV antibody tests are not usually needed to diagnose infectious mononucleosis. However, specific antibody tests may be needed to identify the cause of illness in people who do not have a typical case of infectious mononucleosis or have other illnesses that can be caused by EBV infection. Symptoms of infectious mononucleosis generally resolve within four weeks. If a person is ill for more than six months and does not have a laboratory-confirmed diagnosis of EBV infection, other causes of chronic illness or chronic fatigue syndrome should be considered.

The interpretation of EBV antibody tests requires familiarity with these tests and access to the patient’s clinical information.

Interpretation of EBV antibody tests and diagnosis of EBV infection is summarized as follows:

Susceptibility to infection
People are considered susceptible to EBV infection if they do not have antibodies to the VCA.
Primary (new or recent) infection
People are considered to have a primary EBV infection if they have anti-VCA IgM but do not have antibody to EBNA. Other results that strongly suggest a primary infection are a high or rising level of anti-VCA IgG and no antibody to EBNA after at least four weeks of illness. Resolution of the illness may occur before the diagnostic antibody levels appear. In rare cases, people with active EBV infections may not have detectable EBV-specific antibodies.
Past infection
The presence of antibodies to both VCA and EBNA suggests past infection (from several months to years earlier). Since over 90% of adults have been infected with EBV, most adults will show antibodies to EBV from infection years earlier. High or elevated antibody levels may be present for years and are not diagnostic of recent infection.

Testing paired acute- and convalescent-phase serum samples is not useful to distinguish between recent and past EBV infections. In most cases, the antibody response occurs rapidly during primary EBV infection. The clinical findings of infectious mononucleosis occur in conjunction with the appearance of IgG and IgM anti-VCA antibodies. However, the antibody pattern is not stable before symptoms appear.

$135.45

Fertility Panel for Women

$274.05

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It's impossible to say how long it takes to get pregnant because it's different for each woman.

Many factors can affect a couple's chances of conceiving, such as:

your age
your general health
your reproductive health
how often you have sex

Some women become pregnant quickly, while others take longer. This may be upsetting, but it's normal.

Fertility in Women

Most couples (about 84 out of every 100) will get pregnant within a year if they have regular sex and don't use contraception.

But women become less fertile as they get older. One study found that among couples having regular unprotected sex:

aged 19 to 26 – 92% will conceive after 1 year and 98% after 2 years
aged 35 to 39 – 82% will conceive after 1 year and 90% after 2 years

The effect of age on men's fertility is less clear.

If you’re a woman who is 35 years old or younger and have been unable to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse, or after six months if you’re over 35, you and your partner should have a full physical and medical evaluation with a Reproductive Endocrinologist.

Several blood tests are available to determine if you, your partner, or both of you have a problem that is causing infertility.

FSH Testing

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) helps control a woman’s menstrual cycle and the growth of follicles, which contain eggs, in the ovaries. The FSH test is done on the second or third day of your menstrual cycle, and is used to evaluate egg supply and ovarian function.

In men, FSH regulates the production and transportation of sperm. The test is used to determine sperm count.

Estradiol Test (LC/MS)

Estradiol is an important form of estrogen. An estradiol test is used to measure your ovarian function and to evaluate the quality of your eggs. Like FSH, it is done on the second or third day of your menstrual cycle.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Level

In women, luteinizing hormone (LH) is linked to ovarian hormone production and egg maturation. A luteinizing hormone test performed at the beginning of your cycle may help diagnosis hormonal imbalances, like PCOS. When LH testing is performed midway through your menstrual cycle (day 14 of a 28-day cycle), the level may assist in determining when you’re ovulating.

In men, LH stimulates the hormone testosterone which affects sperm production. An LH test may be useful in evaluating male-factor infertility.

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)

AMH has quickly become the ‘gold standard’ in fertility blood tests. Secreted by the small antral follicles in the ovary, AMH is present until a woman reaches menopause. Performing an AMH test gives a physician a good understanding of your ovarian function and egg reserve. Lower AMH levels can predict a lower egg yield and thus, a lower chance of success in patients undergoing IVF.

AMH can be tested at any point in your menstrual cycle, and can also be done if you’re taking oral contraception.

Serum Progesterone (LC/MS)

Progesterone is a female hormone produced by the ovaries during ovulation. It prepares the endometrial lining of the uterus and makes it receptive to fertilized eggs. A serum progesterone test is used to determine if ovulation is occurring.

Since progesterone levels increase towards the end of a woman’s cycle, the test is done during the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle (just before your period starts).

Prolactin

The hormone prolactin is made by the pituitary gland, and causes milk production.

In women, a prolactin test may be performed:

In the evaluation of infertility.
To determine why a woman is not ovulating.
When a woman has symptoms, such as nipple discharge,

Testosterone (LC/MS)

Affecting the sexual functioning of both men and women, testosterone is probably the most well-known androgen.

In women, a testosterone test is used in the evaluation of conditions including polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

In men, an androgen test is used to find the cause of a low sex drive, the inability to get an erection, or infertility.

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

Thyroid hormones are critical in pregnancy. If the thyroid is over or underactive, this can affect ovulation regulation and reduce fertility. Many women suffer from thyroid dysfunction; around 25% of women in their lifetime, which is around 4x more women than men. Graves disease is the most common thyroid dysfunction, affecting 1% of the population. These conditions are important in fertility, because thyroid hormones are important in regulating ovulation, preventing miscarriage and aiding foetal brain development.

$274.05

Fibromyalgia Panel

$401.47

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The term fibromyalgia came from the Latin word “fibro” (fibrosis tissue), and the Greek terms for “myo” (muscle) and “algia” (pain).

Fibromyalgia is a relatively common health problem that affects around 3-4% of people worldwide. It consists of consistent pain across the entire body and it's a disease that directly affects the nervous system.

Although the pain symptoms are obvious, it can be really difficult to diagnose this condition. That's because many other illnesses cause pain in various parts of the body. With that being said, a lot of progress has been made when it comes to diagnosing fibromyalgia.

Keep reading to learn more about this health issue, how to test for it, and what are your treatment options.

What Is Fibromyalgia and What Are Its Symptoms?

As mentioned earlier, fibromyalgia creates consistent muscular and joint pain. This type of pain is disturbing, but bearable according to most patients. The muscles of a person with fibromyalgia are sensitive to the touch. This can drastically reduce the quality and enjoyment of life in patients diagnosed with this condition.

Some of the most common symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

Tenderness and pain on joints, skin, and muscles
Confusion and lack of concentration
Sleeping difficulties
Having troubles remembering things

Most of these secondary symptoms are directly caused by the constant, silent pain that fibromyalgia patients feel every day. It can be really difficult to think, focus, and sleep when your body is aching all the time for no obvious reasons.

It's important to stress out that fibromyalgia causes pain across the entire body. This includes your shoulders, neck, jaw, upper back, lower back, abdomen, chest, legs, and even the fingers of your limbs. The entire nervous system is affected and this is felt in the hundreds of muscles that make up the human body.

How Is Fibromyalgia Diagnosed?

Body pain is usually associated with a host of other health problems, so diagnosing fibromyalgia is not a walk in the park. Doctors usually run a battery of blood tests to rule out other conditions. Here are a few tests used to diagnose fibromyalgia.

Complete Blood Count

This test group looks at specific variables in your blood such as red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and more. This helps discover anemia or any infections that might cause you constant, whole-body pain.

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

TSH is a hormone produced by your pituitary. It tells your thyroid gland what hormones to secrete and in what quantity. Your thyroid gland is responsible for numerous metabolic processes. Damages to your thyroid can cause symptoms similar to fibromyalgia such as frequent pain throughout your entire body, fatigue, and so on.

Complete Metabolic Panel

The CMP checks the function of your liver, kidneys, and several other organs. It can detect any electrolyte imbalance, diabetes, and other types of health problems that might cause you symptoms similar to fibromyalgia.

Iron Blood Test

Iron is one of the most important minerals in your body. Too little iron can cause anemia which is characterized by fatigue, lack of sleep, and minor muscle aches. At the same time, too much iron is also a bad thing, so this test will give you an accurate result when it comes to blood iron levels in your body.

Vitamin B12

The vitamin B complex is essential for a healthy nervous system, particularly vitamin B12. Low levels of this vitamin are commonly associated with fatigue, diffuse pain, and lethargy. Vitamin B12 depletion can be caused by various things including consuming too much alcohol and not eating a balanced diet.

Vitamin D

At the same time, too little vitamin D can also cause problems in your body including tiredness, mild pain, and a general state of confusion. Vitamin D is metabolized from the sun, but most people don't get enough sun exposure to get enough vitamin D in their system.

This test will reveal how much vitamin D is in your bloodstream. If you're deficient in this vital nutrient, you might be able to easily correct this problem with regular vitamin D supplementation.

Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK Test)

CPK is an enzyme found in most muscles in your body. When the muscles are injured, CPK is released into the bloodstream. This test can detect excess CPK in your system and it will help doctors detect infections and diseases quickly.

CPK is also split into 3 categories and each corresponds to certain muscle groups and organs. Measuring your levels of CPK can indicate recent muscle damage, heart attacks, brain problems, and more.

Magnesium in Red Blood Cells:

Low levels can lead to muscle spasms, which are common in fibromyalgia patients; magnesium supplementation can also improve symptoms in some fibromyalgia patients; recommended magnesium levels in fibromyalgia patients are at least 2 mEq/L.

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR Test)

ESR is often recommended as a routine laboratory test in fibromyalgia patients to rule out the presence of inflammatory disorders that may mimic symptoms. The upper limit of normal for the ESR in women is half their age (eg, a level of 40 in an 80-year-old women is normal), and in men is half their age minus 10.

How Is Fibromyalgia Treated?

Once a fibromyalgia diagnosis is confirmed, your doctor will help you fight this disease in a number of ways. Usually, a combination of medications and therapies is used, depending on the severity of your pain and how much disturbance it causes in your life.

Some of the drugs used to treat fibromyalgia include pain relievers such as ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and others. These will help you cope with the constant pain easier. Other drugs used are anti-depressants such as Duloxetine.

These drugs might help fight the pain and lethargy commonly associated with fibromyalgia. Finally, anti-seizure drugs might be useful in extreme cases.

On top of that, counseling is highly recommended to find ways to cope with the constant pain and alleviate it slightly. Physical therapy is also very useful in improving the flexibility and stamina of people who struggle with fibromyalgia.

Other types of self-care strategies include practicing yoga, meditating, taking long, hot baths, or engaging in vigorous cardio exercise. These activities release natural endorphins that help numb the pain of people with fibromyalgia.

Order Your Fibromyalgia Panel Today!

As you can see, the only reliable way to test for fibromyalgia is by ordering a comprehensive panel of blood tests. This will help doctors rule out other conditions and accurately formulate treatment options for your specific case.

Order your fibromyalgia panel from Discountedlabs.com today and take advantage of quick delivery of results as well as one of the lowest prices for blood tests in the US!

$401.47

Gynecomastia Blood Test Panel

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This panel includes hormones that have been implicated in gynecomastia by several studies. Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of the male breast resulting from a growth of the glandular tissue of the breast. It is defined clinically by the presence of a rubbery or firm mass extending concentrically from the nipples. At least 30% of males will be affected during their life. Since it causes anxiety, psychosocial discomfort and fear of breast cancer, early diagnostic evaluation is important, and patients usually seek medical attention. Causes include hormone imbalance and genetic predisposition.

Tests Include:

TESTOSTERONE, Free and Total, LC/MS Assay (T > 1,500 ng/dL)

DHT ( Dihydrotestosterone)

Low blood levels of testosterone and DHT in the presence of high estradiol, IGF-1, thyroid hormones or prolactin may accelerate the growth of breast tissue in men

ULTRA SENSITIVE ESTRADIOL

IGF-1 (Insulin Growth Factor 1)

PROLACTIN

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)

FREE T3 (Free Triiodothyronine )

What is Gynecomastia and How to Diagnose it

According to the National Institute of Health, gynecomastia can affect more than 50% of adolescent boys during puberty.

At the same time, gynecomastia can also affect up to 65% of men between 27 and 92 years, depending on their lifestyle, habits, drug intake, and other factors.

But what is gynecomastia and why so many men get it? Is it dangerous? And what can you do to treat it effectively and safely?

Keep reading this article to find out everything you need to know about gynecomastia, its types, causes, and treatment options.

Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of the male breast resulting from a growth of the glandular tissue of the breast. It is defined clinically by the presence of a rubbery or firm mass extending concentrically from the nipples. At least 30% of males will be affected during their life. Since it causes anxiety, psychosocial discomfort and fear of breast cancer, early diagnostic evaluation is important, and patients usually seek medical attention.

Evaluation of gynecomastia must include a detailed medical history, clinical examination, specific blood tests, imaging, and tissue sampling. Individual treatment requirements can range from simple reassurance to medical treatment or even surgery.

Gynecomastia Symptoms

Men who start experiencing this problem complain of pain and tenderness around the nipple area. Gynecomastia was reported to cause an imbalance between estrogen and androgen action or an increased estrogen to androgen ratio, due to increased estrogen production, decreased androgen production or both. Androgens include testosterone and DHT. High estradiol in the presence of low testosterone and DHT, growth hormone (IGF-1 is a metabolite), and a genetic predisposition to gynecomastia can increase the size of breast tissue in men.

Potential Causes of Gynecomastia

Physiological gynecomastia is common in pubertal boys and appears to be associated with increased levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and pubertal growth, but not with a shift in the balance between estrogen and testosterone, a new study suggests. Study authors noted that IGF-1 together with estrogen is essential for the growth of breast tissue, and it appears that the effect of growth hormone on breast growth is mediated through IGF-1. "The stimulatory effect of IGF-1 on breast formation was synergized by estradiol, which was also elevated in boys with gynecomastia in our study. However, serum testosterone was similarly elevated, leaving the estradiol/testosterone ratio unaltered."

Testosterone converts into estradiol, DHT, and other metabolites. Men with higher amounts of the enzyme aromatase usually have this problem even at lower doses of testosterone. The growth of this glandular tissue is also influenced by a higher fat percentage, older age, excessive alcohol intake, and the use of certain medications. Gynecomastia rarely occurs in men using testosterone replacement since testosterone to estradiol ratios are improved.

In several studies on testosterone replacement, only a very small percentage of people receiving testosterone experience growth of breast tissue. In one HIV-specific study conducted by Dr. Judith Rabkin in New York, she reported that out of 150 men enrolled in the study, two men experienced this adverse reaction.

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a natural metabolite of testosterone that has antiestrogen activity and cannot be converted into estradiol at the tissue level. Systemic or locally administered DHT has been successfully prescribed for the treatment of patients with idiopathic and estrogen-induced gynecomastia.

Gynecomastia is also seen in men with androgen resistance with low testosterone and DHT, where unfettered estrogen can stimulate subsequent breast development. However, in men with normal androgen receptor activity, estradiol is unable to stimulate breast development. This is thought to be due to an imbalance between the inhibitory and stimulatory effect of these hormones.

Medications and Products That Can Cause Gynecomastia

Some medications have been reported in the medical literature to cause gynecomastia due to decreases in testosterone, increases in estradiol, or both. These include:

· Antiandrogens.

· HIV medications.

· Anti-anxiety medications.

. Finasteride

· Tricyclic antidepressants.

· Glucocorticoid steroids.

· Antibiotics.

· Ulcer medication such as cimetidine .

· Cancer treatment (chemotherapy).

· Heart medications such as digitalis and calcium channel blockers.

· Anabolic steroids

· Soy and flaxseed

· Exposure to pesticides and byproducts of plastic processing has also been linked to increased estrogen and decreased sperm count in men.

If the gynecomastia is drug-induced, decreased tenderness and softening of the glandular tissue will usually be apparent within one month after discontinuation of the drug. However, if the gynecomastia has been present for more than one year, it is unlikely to regress substantially, either spontaneously or with medical therapy, because of the presence of fibrosis. In such circumstances, surgical subcutaneous mastectomy, ultrasound-assisted liposuction, and suction-assisted lipectomy are the best options for cosmetic improvement, as described in several case series.

During the rapid, proliferative phase, manifested clinically as breast pain and tenderness, medical therapy may be attempted. Most studies of drugs -- including testosterone (in patients without hypogonadism), have been uncontrolled and thus difficult to interpret because gynecomastia may resolve spontaneously. The few randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials generally have been limited by small samples.

How do you manage gynecomastia if it does occur?

Although not approved for the treatment of gynecomastia, the selective estrogen-receptor modulator tamoxifen, administered orally at a dose of 20 mg daily for up to 3 months, has been shown to be effective in randomized and nonrandomized trials, resulting in partial regression of gynecomastia in approximately 80% of patients and complete regression in about 60%. Patients in whom tamoxifen is effective usually experience a decrease in pain and tenderness within one month. In a retrospective analysis of a series of patients with idiopathic gynecomastia, 78% of patients treated with tamoxifen had complete resolution of gynecomastia, as compared with only 40% of patients receiving danazol. In case series describing the use of tamoxifen for this condition in more than 225 patients, adverse events were uncommon but can include body aches, low sex drive, and fatigue.

The aromatase inhibitor anastrozole was not shown to be more effective than placebo in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in boys with pubertal gynecomastia. Although in an uncontrolled study of 10 patients with pubertal gynecomastia, the selective estrogen-receptor modulator raloxifene was shown to result in more than a 50% decrease in the size of the gynecomastia in the majority of the boys, there are insufficient data to recommend its use at this time.

Lowering the testosterone dose had not proven helpful for the two patients in Dr. Rabkin's study. The use of antiestrogens, such as tamoxifen 10 mg twice daily, with lower doses of testosterone have been effective. Some physicians prescribe low dose aromatase inhibitors for men with early-onset gynecomastia. Gynecomastia can become permanent if the condition lasts very long although it may reduce in size when the androgen use is discontinued. In the absence of resolution, surgical correction may be necessary in severe cases.

For men who experience enlarged breast size, doctors usually check estradiol levels to determine whether too much testosterone is being converted into estrogen. However, physicians usually forget that other hormone metabolites like DHT and IGF-1 may be involved in the development of gynecomastia, so they do not include these tests in the diagnostics panel.

Warning: Bringing estrogen down to very low levels could cause health problems in men in the long run. Hair/skin quality and health, brain function, bone density, lipids, sexual function, and other important factors may be greatly influenced by estrogen.

More information about estradiol and gynecomastia.

Bibliography:

Braunstein, G. D., M.D. (2007). Gynecomastia. The New England Journal of Medicine, 357(12), 1229-1237.

Schulster M, Bernie AM, Ramasamy R. The role of estradiol in male reproductive function. Asian J Androl 2016;18:435-40

Gynecomastia FAQ

Here are a few answers to some of the questions you might have about gynecomastia.

1. Is Gynecomastia Painful?

Some patients might experience mild pain in their chest area as well as tenderness, especially when gynecomastia gets into an advanced state. However, the pain is not sharp or intense, and it usually goes away once proper treatment for gynecomastia is administered.

2. Does the Breast Tissue Subside Once Gynecomastia Is Treated?

One of the main concerns of patients with gynecomastia is whether the breast tissue will continue to "hang" after the condition is treated. Unfortunately, the tissue will not subside on its own in most cases, but there are solutions to this problem. Once the underlying cause of gynecomastia is treated, patients can perform small surgeries to remove the excess breast tissue and achieve a more "manly" chest.

3. Does Scarring Occur After Removing the Breast Tissue?

Luckily, the scarring is minimal around the nipple area and almost invisible. Patients can go to the beach and not worry that someone will see that they had gynecomastia surgery because the scarring is virtually non-existent.

4. Are There Any Other Drugs or Substances Which Cause Gynecomastia?

Certain drugs or substances might cause gynecomastia such as marijuana, steroids, or other performance-enhancing drugs. However, men might develop breast tissue enlargement as a result of consuming high amounts of alcohol too. Alcohol can damage the liver, which in turn decreases the production of testosterone.

At the same time, certain drugs such as spironolactone, ketoconazole, and others can also trigger the development of gynecomastia. Cimetidine, which is a drug used to treat ulcer, is also associated with this type of health issue.

Conclusions

Treating gynecomastia can be done with relative ease these days, as long as you are aware of its existence. For a complete and thorough test which helps you diagnose this condition quickly, check out the Gynecomastia Test Panel. This lab test panel provided by Discounted Labs can be done using a blood sample, and you get the results in just a few business days. The results can help your doctor decide what therapies are best for you to eliminate your gynecomastia.

Reference:

Sansone A, et al. Gynecomastia and hormones. Endocrine. DOI 10.1007/s12020-016-0975-9

FREE BONUS: EBook: Beyond Testosterone

Suggested Reading: Testosterone Replacement Blood Test Targets

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Hair Loss Test Panel for Women

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This lab test panel includes main blood test makers involved in hair loss in women. Note: Some medications (listed below) may cause hair loss in men and women.

Anemia-related factors:

Complete Blood Count (CBC)- Can detect potential low hemoglobin and infections that can lead to hair loss. Additionally, some CBC makers like MCV and MCH can detect B-12 and folate deficiency that affects hair growth.
Ferritin- Low ferritin, an iron storage protein, has been linked to hair loss and slow down of hair growth.
Iron and Total Iron Capacity (TIBC)- Low iron anemia has been linked to hair los

Hyperandrogenism: Excessive male hormones (androgens):

In healthy women, the ovaries and adrenal glands produce about 40% to 50% of the body's testosterone. Tumors of the ovaries and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can both cause too much androgen production. High testosterone can lead to high dihydrotesterone (DHT), known factor in male and female hair loss. Cushing disease is a problem with the pituitary gland that leads to excess amounts of corticosteroids and DHEA.

Total Testosterone Test (LC/MS)
Free Testosterone (Equilibrium Ultrafiltration)
DHEA-S
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism: Both low and high thyroid function are known factors in hair loss.

Thyroid Stimulation Hormone (TSH)
Free Triidothyronine (Free T3)

Some vitamin defficiencies can also cause hair loss in women with poor dietary habits, malabsortion, and illness. Please check our discounted vitamin tests.

Causes of Hair Loss

There are many causes of hair loss. Causes include certain diseases, chemical exposure, or drug use. The most common causes are:

Androgenic Alopecia (AGA) - Male and Female Pattern Baldness, also known as “Androgenic Alopecia”, is the most common cause of hair loss and will affect up to 70% of men and 40% of women at some point in their lifetime. Men typically present with hairline recession at the temples and hair-loss on the upper surface of the head, also known as vertex balding. Women typically present diffuse, or scattered, thinning of the hair over the top of their scalps. People who suffer from this type of hair-loss have an underlying sensitivity to “hair follicle miniaturization” due to androgenic hormones.
Poor Nutrition - Usually complete baldness is not seen in people with nutritional deficiencies, thinning of the hair is more common. Studies show that limited food intake and deficiencies in certain nutrients can cause thinning. These include deficiencies of biotin, amino-acids (protein), zinc, and iron. Consuming a diet high in animal fat, such in fast food, can also have a negative effect on hair loss.
Stress - Stress has been shown to restrict the blood supply to capillaries which prevents oxygen and nutrients from reaching the hair follicle which can prevent hair growth. This effect is similar to having poor circulation.
Medications - Some medications can cause hair loss, especially medications which affect hormone levels. These medications include contraceptive pills, some forms of hormone replacement therapy, anabolic steroids, and acne medication. Other medications which can have an effect on hair loss include those for blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and cholesterol.

What is Hair Loss (alopecia) from Medications?

Alopecia from drugs is a usually reversible nonscarring diffuse hair loss that occurs within days to weeks of starting a new medication or changing the dose.

Who Gets Drug-induced Alopecia?

The development of hair loss and severity depend both on the drug and individual predisposition. Some drugs cause hair loss in most patients receiving an appropriate dose. Other drugs are only occasionally responsible for hair loss.

What Types of Hair Loss Caused by Medications Are There?

There are two types of drug-induced hair loss:

Anagen effluvium – the shedding of actively growing hairs. Anagen effluvium is usually due to chemotherapy drugs and rarely with gold, colchicine or poisoning with arsenic, bismuth, thallium, or boric acid.

Telogen effluvium – the shedding of resting, or bulb hairs. Telogen effluvium is the mechanism of virtually all other medication-induced hair loss. The list of possible drug causes is very long and includes:

Anti-coagulants
Anti-hypertensives
Hormones — oral contraceptive pill (during/after/changing), hormone replacement therapy, androgens.
Anticonvulsants
Mood stabilizers and antidepressants — most, such as lithium 12–19%
Others — some antipsychotics and anti-anxiety drugs

What are the Treatments for Hair Loss?

Several treatments are currently being used for hair loss as prescribed medications or over the counter (OTC) options.

Rogaine (Minoxidil)

Unlike Propecia, Rogaine doesn't come with all the negative side effects. This OTC treatment is a topical one rather than oral, so it is applied directly to the scalp as a means of combatting hair loss.

How does it work? Rogaine helps to increase the flow of blood to your scalp and hair follicles, preventing the follicles from shrinking--basically jump-starting them and getting them back into working order. The topical treatment is very unlikely to interact negatively with oral medications, so it should be fairly safe for your use.

Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix Injections

In 2014, a study was published in the journal Facial Plastic Surgery, detailing the results of using platelet-rich fibrin matrix as a means of treating hair loss.

Platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PFRM) is a mixture made by separating the red and white blood cells from the platelets and plasma. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, " It is collected in a vacuum-sealed collection tube with a thixotropic separator gel, and the tube is centrifuged for 6 minutes at 1100 rpm. This process separates the red and white blood cells from the plasma and platelets, which are then transferred in a closed system to a second tube containing calcium chloride; it is this small amount of calcium that initiates the fibrinogen cleavage and the fibrin polymerization."

In the Facial Plastic Surgery study, 15 men and women with androgenetic alopecia were given injections of PFRM three times a month over the course of 1 year. During that time, their hair density indexes were monitored. After just 1 year, hair density indices increased significantly, meaning the patients' hair grew thicker and denser on the scalp.

Latanoprost

Latanoprost is a medication used to help regrow eyelashes that have fallen out as a result of thyroid disorders or stress. However, studies have shown that the hair re-growth benefits extend beyond just the eyelashes, but the medication can even help to replenish hair that has been lost from the head.

A 2012 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that latanoprost "significantly increased hair density (terminal and vellus hairs) at 24 weeks". Essentially, it could help to stimulate activity in the hair follicles, making it a potentially effective treatment for hair loss.

Ketoconazole

Ketoconazole (KCZ), originally used for seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff (in Nizoral shampoo) and as an anti-fungal medication, has also been found to be effective in stimulating new hair growth when applied topically. Even though the exact mechanism of topical KCZ for hair growth is not clearly understood, evidence suggests that ketoconazole acts as an androgen receptor suppressor.

Progesterone

Progesterone is a critical hormone produced by the female body. Progesterone acts as a precursor in the production of other vital hormones, such as estrogen and cortisone.

Topical progesterone-based hair restoration therapy is demonstrably effective in treating hair loss according to multiple studies. It's believed that progesterone acts by inhibiting an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme needed to convert testosterone into DHT. Specifically, progesterone will prevent DHT from forming in the first place by blocking the action of 5-alpha reductase).

Certain other studies have also suggested that progesterone could have a significant effect on human hair growth beyond its ability to prevent testosterone from converting into DHT.

Higher levels of estrogens during pregnancy are thought to be the reason for an increase in the ratio of hair follicles in the growing phase of the female hair growth cycle. It's also true that after giving birth (when progesterone levels decrease), these new follicles enter a resting phase that results in increased hair shedding and temporary hair thinning.

Spironolactone

Spironolactone is a powerful androgen receptor blocker, and when applied topically can prevent DHT from attaching to both hair follicles and oil glands.

Spironolactone can effectively prevent DHT from binding to androgen receptors in your follicles and stimulating your body's immune response to attack your own hair. Although the reason for this isn't clearly understood, topical spironolactone is a scientifically verified way to stop DHT from causing a follicle destroying immune response.

Topical Combination Hair Loss Products

Compounding pharmacies make topical scalp solutions to treat hair loss containing a combination of several of the options mentioned above.

$302.43

Heavy Metals Test Profile , Blood: Arsenic, Lead and Mercury

$197.96

This panel measures the blood levels of arsenic, lead and mercury.

Patient should avoid seafood and red wine 72 hours prior to collection.

Heavy Metals Mercury, Lead, and Arsenic - All You Need to Know

A heavy metal test has nothing to do with the rock music genre with a similar name. These tests are designed to check for heavy metals present in your body. Different types of metals such as mercury, lead, or arsenic can get inside your system.

In large quantities, these heavy metals can cause poisoning. The human body can slowly get rid of those metals, but the process takes a lot of time. It's highly recommended to test for heavy metals, especially if you have symptoms commonly associated with these substances.

Keep reading to learn more about heavy metals, how dangerous they can be, and how a heavy metal test can help you.

What Are the Substances Checked by a Heavy Metal Test Profile?

As mentioned earlier, most heavy metal tests check for 3 different substances - mercury, lead, and arsenic. Unfortunately, these metals are present in a lot of products we use every day, even in certain foods. Let's talk about each of them separately.

Mercury

Mercury is a heavy metal present in different objects as well as cigarettes. In large quantities, it can cause muscle weakness and lack of coordination. Since this is a heavy metal, your body gets rid of it very slowly, that's why you should remove yourself from mercury exposure as soon as possible.

This metal can also be added to paints and solvents, that's why it will eventually end up in your house and the breathable air. Mercury tends to stick to organs and tissues, causing poisoning in people of all ages.

Arsenic

Arsenic is also a dangerous heavy metal present in household products, including building items such as pressure-treated woods. Your potable water can also be contaminated with arsenic as well as the seafood you're probably consuming regularly.

Arsenic is a "global toxin" that can cause serious health problems, including cancer. It's highly recommended to test for this heavy substance from time to time, especially if you experience symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.

Lead

Back in the days, most cars used gasoline enhanced with lead. This type of combination can be very dangerous because the lead will eventually end up in the atmosphere. People in the United States breathed air contaminated with lead for decades and it's believed that this is why the crime rate was so high in the country.

Lead can damage the brain and cause abnormally aggressive behavior in people of all ages. This heavy metal is now banned from car fuels and it's present in fewer and fewer everyday products. Contamination with lead can lead to cancer and other life-threatening diseases. It's present in cigarette smoke too.

It has also been discovered that children are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning. Their bodies are continuously developing and this makes them absorb 5 times more lead than adults do, regardless of its source. That's why you should be especially careful when it comes to having objects contaminated with lead around the house.

What Are the Symptoms of Heavy Metal Poisoning?

As mentioned earlier, it's strongly recommended to do a heavy metal blood test once every few years, especially if you eat a lot of seafood and drink water from the tap. Certain symptoms should prompt a heavy metal test as soon as possible.

Let's explore some of these symptoms and see how complex they can be.

Diarrhea and nausea - diarrhea is caused by your body's desperate attempts to eliminate as much of the heavy metals as possible. This symptom can also be accompanied by nausea that lasts for days
Vomiting and abdominal pain - heavy metals such as mercury and lead irritate the soft tissues inside the stomach. This could cause vomiting, pain, and a general state of discomfort
Chills and weakness - mercury, in particular, can cause weakness and fatigue even in very healthy adults. Lead can damage the nervous system, leading to frequent chills and muscular weakness
Shortness of breath - excessive amounts of heavy metals affect the lungs and respiratory system, leading to shortness of breath and difficulty breathing in general
Tingling in the hands - this symptom is also caused by mercury or lead messing with your nervous system and causing weird symptoms
High blood pressure - arsenic and lead can increase the speed of your blood passing through veins and arteries. That's because they tend to constrict blood vessels, increasing blood pressure
Swollen skin - arsenic can also cause skin problems. You might experience red and/or swollen skin, itchy skin, or developing weird spots on various parts of the body
Memory loss and anemia - these symptoms are commonly associated with lead and cadmium poisoning. They can be particularly more potent in developing children

Try the Heavy Metal Profile Panel Today!

There's no joke when it comes to heavy metals. If you work in an industrial setting or you eat a lot of seafood, it's highly recommended to test for these substances before you develop the symptoms mentioned above.

Even if you buy your fish from high-quality sources, it has been found that most if not all seafood contains small amounts of mercury and arsenic that could lead to poisoning. Make sure that you test for these two metals and follow your doctor's treatment if necessary.

To ensure that the heavy metal test is as accurate as possible, do not consume seafood 72 hours before doing a heavy metal test. At the same time, avoid red wine as it might also contain trace amounts of mercury or arsenic.

To order the heavy metal blood profile test at a reduced price, go to DiscountedLabs.com and add it to your cart. you'll receive the results in a few business days and you can compare them against reference values to see where you stand. Good luck!

For more information read this article about heavy metal poisoning

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Hormone Panel for Men on TRT- Upstream & Downstream

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This hormone panel for men on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) contains upstream and downstream hormones to testosterone. TRT has been shown to decrease upstream hormones like pregnenolone and progesterone, and slightly decrease DHEA. Downstream hormone metabolites like ultrasensitive estradiol and DHT are also included. Lastly, prolactin is added since high prolactin can decrease sexual function. No LH and FSH were included since TRT shuts them down.

Several of the hormone tests (estradiol, testosterone, pregnenolone, progesterone, & DHT) included in this panel are done using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry since they are more precise at high and low values and have no interences.

You can add an IGF-1 test and 17-OH-progesterone test to your cart for an even more complete picture.

DHEA-S Test

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland. It is also made in the brain. DHEA leads to the production of androgens and estrogens (male and female sex hormones). DHEA levels in the body begin to decrease after age 30. Lower DHEA levels are found in people with hormonal disorders, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, depression, diabetes, inflammation, immune disorders, and osteoporosis. Corticosteroids, birth control taken by mouth, and agents that treat psychiatric disorders may reduce DHEA levels. Do you need to take a DHEA supplement?

Estradiol Test (Ultra-Sensitive) Test (LC/MS)

Estradiol is the predominant sex hormone present in females and is also found at lower levels in men. It represents the major estrogen in humans. Estradiol not only impacts reproductive and sexual functioning, but also affects other systems including bone health, heart health, nerves and metabolism. Estradiol, also known as E2, is the most active of all three estrogens commonly measured in a clinical setting. For women, it is important to compare the relationship between estradiol and progesterone in evaluating menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, mood disorders, and aging skin. In both men and women, low levels of estradiol are associated with osteoporosis. More information: Estradiol in Men: Top Ten Things You Should Know

Progesterone Test

Progesterone is a female hormone important for the regulation of ovulation and menstruation. It is also present in men in smaller concentrations. This test is performed using the immunoassay technology. Progesterone is used to cause menstrual periods in women who have not yet reached menopause but are not having periods due to a lack of progesterone in the body. This hormone is also used to prevent overgrowth in the lining of the uterus in postmenopausal women who are receiving estrogen hormone replacement therapy. Progesterone replacement may also be used for other purposes. TRT may lower progesterone in men. Progesterone may have a calming effect in men, so some researchers speculate that decreasing progesterone levels in men may affect mood, sleep quality and anxiety.

Pregnenolone Test- Sensitive (LC/MS)

Pregnenolone is the mother of all hormones. It is known as a neurosteroid with brain health benefits. As most hormones, it decreases with age. Aside from the natural decrease in pregnenolone that occurs as you age, research shows that higher doses of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) cause pregnenolone levels to drop even further.

This pregnenolone lab test uses liquid chromatography, so it is accurate for the measurement of pregnenolone. Pregnenolone is known as the mother hormone. All other steroids including testosterone and estrogen are derived from this important hormone. For this reason, optimal blood levels of pregnenolone are critical for a healthy hormone balance.

However, pregnenolone does more. It is important for proper brain development, cognition, memory, and mood. These dramatic effects on the brain are why pregnenolone is known as a neuro-active steroid.

Fasting is not required. Pregnenolone supplementation should be taken approximately 2 hours before the blood draw. More on the role of pregenolone in men.

Total Testosterone, LC/MS
Free Testosterone by Equilibrium Ultrafiltration

This panel includes total testosterone measured by the most accurate method for women (liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry), free testosterone percent by equilibrium ultrafiltration, and free testosterone calculated from percent free T. Food may temporily low testosterone blood levels in men not on TRT.

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) (LC/MS)

DHT is synthesized from testosterone in the prostate gland, testes, hair follicles, and adrenal glands by 5-alpha reductase. Dihydrotestosterone exerts its action similar to testosterone, which binds to and activates androgen receptors. Dihydrotestosterone is responsible for the formation of male primary sex characteristics and most male secondary sex characteristics during puberty, such as muscular growth, facial and body hair growth, and deepening of the voice.

Excess DHT has been associated with hair loss, prostate volume increase, and acne in men with a genetic predisposition to those issues. Blocking or decreasing DHT to low levels may cause sexual dysfunction. Please read DHT: Friend or Enemy of Men?

Prolactin Test

Prolactin is secreted by the pituitary gland to induce milk production. It also has many other functions on immune response, myelin coating on nerves, heart muscle protection, and enhances LH receptors on testicular Leydig cells so that testosterone can be produced.

Prolactin levels peak during REM sleep, and in the early morning. Levels can rise after exercise, meals, sexual intercourse, minor surgical procedures, or following epileptic seizures.

High prolactin can decrease testosterone and cause sexual dysfunction. Higher levels of prolactin have been associated with tumors involving the lungs, the pituitary gland, and the kidneys. Prolactin is sometimes used by doctors to evaluate sexual dysfunction of unknown cause in both men and women.

Drugs, supplements and certain diseases like pituitary adenomas may disrupt normal prolactin blood levels. These include hypothyroidism, antiepileptics, antidepressants, estrogen, opiates, diuretics, certain growth hormone releasing peptides and arginine. More on the role of prolactin in men.

$437.50

Inflammation Panel

$186.42

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This inflammation lab test panel includes:

C-Reactive Protein (CRP) – CRP is a substance produced by the liver that increases in the presence of inflammation in the body. This test helps to diagnose and monitor the activity of some inflammatory and infectious conditions. Arterial damage results from white blood cell invasion and inflammation within the wall. CRP is a general marker for inflammation and infection, so it can be used as a very rough proxy for heart disease risk. The American Heart Association and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have defined risk groups based on CRP as follows: Low Risk: less than 1.0 mg/L, Average risk: 1.0 to 3.0 mg/L, High risk: above 3.0 mg/L. CRP can also be increased by sleep apnea, rheumatoid arthritis, colon cancer and inflammatory bowel disease.

CK- Creatine Kinase (or Creatine Phosphokinase – CPK)- Creatine phosphokinase is an enzyme found mainly in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle. It is tested by taking a blood sample. High CPK can indicate muscle destruction and inflammation, heart attacks, central nervous system issues, and others.

Ferritin- Serum ferritin is used as a screening tool to detect iron deficiency. Serum ferritin values in the range of 200–2000 ng/ml may be increased due to non-iron-related factors including elements of inflammation and obesity.

Homocysteine- A high level of homocysteine in the blood (hyperhomocysteinemia) makes a person more prone to endothelial cell injury, which leads to inflammation in the blood vessels, which in turn may lead plaque build-up inside blood vessels. Hyperhomocysteinemia is therefore a possible risk factor for coronary artery disease since it has been correlated with the occurrence of blood clots, heart attacks and strokes.

Lactic Acid Dehydrogenase (LDH)- LDH is an enzyme, or catalyst, found in many different tissues in your body that is involved in energy production. These include your red blood cells, skeletal muscles, hert, kidneys, brain, and lungs. LDH is most often measured to check for tissue damage. LDH is in many body tissues, especially the heart, liver, kidney, muscles, brain, blood cells, and lungs. An elevated level of LDH may be seen with: Anemia, infections (such as infectious mononucleosis (mono), meningitis, encephalitis, and HIV), sepsis, intestinal and lung (pulmonary) infarction, kidney disease, liver disease, muscle injury, pancreatitis, cancers and bone fractures.

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (by Westergren) (ESR)- ESR is the rate at which red blood cells sediment in a period of one hour. To perform the test, anticoagulated blood was traditionally placed in an upright tube, known as a Westergren tube, and the rate at which the red blood cells fall was measured and reported in mm/h. The ESR is increased in inflammation, pregnancy, anemia, autoimmune disorders (such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus), infections, some kidney diseases and some cancers (such as lymphoma and multiple myeloma). The ESR is decreased in polycythemia, hyperviscosity, sickle cell anemia, leukemia, low plasma protein (due to liver or kidney disease) and congestive heart failure.

$186.42

Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)

$19.85

The serum iron test measures the amount of iron in your blood. The total iron-binding capacity (TIBC test) test looks at how well the iron moves through your body.

Why is Iron Important for Health?

Iron is an important mineral that your body needs to stay healthy. Your body uses iron to make hemoglobin, the protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. If you don't have enough iron, you may not have enough hemoglobin. This condition is called iron deficiency anemia.

Iron in your body is carried, or bound, mainly to a protein made by your liver called transferrin. The TIBC test is based on certain proteins, including transferrin, found in the blood. Your transferrin levels are almost always measured along with iron and TIBC.

Iron plays a principal role in erythropoiesis, the formation and maturation of red blood cells (RBCs) and is required for hemoglobin synthesis. The human body contains between four and five grams of iron, about 65% of which is present in hemoglobin and 3% of which is present in myoglobin, the oxygen storage protein found in skeletal muscle and cardiac muscle. A small amount is also found in cellular enzymes that catalyze the oxidation and reduction of iron. Excess iron is stored in the liver and spleen as ferritin and hemosiderin. Any iron present in the serum is in transit between the digestive track and bone marrow, and available iron stores forms. Sixty to 70% of the body's iron is carried by its specific transport protein, transferrin. For this reason, total iron binding capacity (TIBC) and transferrin are sometimes referred to interchangeable, even though other proteins carry iron and contribute to the TIBC.

Unbound iron is highly toxic, but there is generally an excess of transferrin available to prevent the buildup of unbound iron in the circulation. The percentage of iron saturation is calculated by dividing the serum iron value by the TIBC value and multiplying it by 100.

Iron Deficiency:

Iron deficiency, or sideropenia, is the state in which a body lacks enough iron to supply its needs. Iron is present in all cells in the human body and has several vital functions, such as carrying oxygen to the tissues from the lungs as a key component of the hemoglobin protein, acting as a transport medium for electrons within the cells in the form of cytochromes, and facilitating oxygen enzyme reactions in various tissues. Too little iron can interfere with these vital functions and lead to morbidity and death.

Total body iron averages approximately 3.8 g in men and 2.3 g in women. In blood plasma, iron is carried tightly bound to the protein transferrin. There are several mechanisms that control iron metabolism and safeguard against iron deficiency. The main regulatory mechanism is situated in the gastrointestinal tract. The majority of iron absorption occurs in the duodenum, the first section of the small intestine. A number of dietary factors may affect iron absorption. When loss of iron is not sufficiently compensated by intake of iron from the diet, a state of iron deficiency develops over time. When this state is uncorrected, it leads to iron-deficiency anemia, a common type of anemia. Before anemia occurs, the medical condition of iron deficiency without anemia is called latent iron deficiency (LID).

Anemia is a condition characterized by inadequate red blood cells (erythrocytes) or hemoglobin. When the body lacks sufficient amounts of iron, production of the protein hemoglobin is reduced. Hemoglobin binds to oxygen, enabling red blood cells to supply oxygenated blood throughout the body. Women of child-bearing age, children, and people with poor diet are most susceptible to the disease. Most cases of iron-deficiency anemia are mild, but if not treated can cause problems like an irregular heartbeat, pregnancy complications, and delayed growth in infants and children that could affect their cognitive development and their behavior.

Symptoms of Low Iron:

Symptoms of iron deficiency can occur even before the condition has progressed to iron deficiency anemia.

Symptoms of iron deficiency are not unique to iron deficiency. Iron is needed for many enzymes to function normally, so a wide range of symptoms may eventually emerge, either as the secondary result of the anemia, or as other primary results of iron deficiency. Symptoms of iron deficiency include:

fatigue
dizziness/lightheadedness
pallor
hair loss
twitches
irritability
weakness
pica
brittle or grooved nails
hair thinning
Plummer–Vinson syndrome: painful atrophy of the mucous membrane covering the tongue, the pharynx and the esophagus
impaired immune function
pagophagia (compulsive ice chewing)
restless legs syndrome

Continued iron deficiency may progress to anemia and worsening fatigue. Thrombocytosis, or an elevated platelet count, can also result. A lack of sufficient iron levels in the blood is one reason that some people cannot donate blood.

High Iron- Iron Overload

Iron overload or hemochromatosis indicates accumulation of iron in the body from any cause. The most important causes are hereditary haemochromatosis (HHC), a genetic disorder, and transfusional iron overload, which can result from repeated blood transfusions.

Organs most commonly affected by haemochromatosis include the liver, heart, and endocrine glands.

Hemochromatosis may present with the following clinical syndromes:

liver: chronic liver disease and cirrhosis of the liver.
heart: heart failure, cardiac arrhythmia.
hormones: diabetes (see below) and hypogonadism (insufficiency of the sex hormone producing glands) which leads to low sex drive and/or loss of fertility in men and loss of menstrual cycle in women.
metabolism: diabetes in people with iron overload occurs as a result of selective iron deposition in islet beta cells in the pancreas leading to functional failure and cell death.
skeletal: arthritis, from calcium pyrophosphate deposition in joints leading to joint pains. The most commonly affected joints are those of the hands, particularly the knuckles of the second and third fingers.
skin: melanoderma (darkening or 'bronzing' of the skin).
The skin's deep tan color, in concert with insulin insufficiency due to pancreatic damage, is the source of a nickname for this condition: "bronze diabetes"

What Can the Iron and TIBC Test Diagnose?

Assist in the diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia.
Differentiate between iron deficiency anemia and anemia secondary to chronic disease.
Monitor hematological response to therapy during pregnancy and iron deficiency anemias.
Provide support for diagnosis of hemochromatosis or diseases of iron metabolism and storage.

What Can Increase Iron Test Levels?

Acute liver disease.
Hypochromic iron-deficiency anemias.
Late pregnancy.
Testosterone therapy via increased hemoglobin and hematocrit.

What Can Decrease Iron Test Levels?

Iron is decreased in chronic infections, cirrhosis, hemochromatosis, hemolytic anemias, neoplastic diseases, protein depletion, renal disease, excessive menstruation, frequent blood donations and internal bleeding.

What Medications Can Increase or Decrease TIBC Test Results?

Drugs that may increase TIBC levels include mestranol and oral contraceptives.
Drugs that may decrease TIBC levels include which is asparaginase, corticotropin, cortisone, and testosterone.

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$19.85

Kidney Renal Panel Labs

$142.73

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These renal panel labs include blood and urine tests commonly used by physicians to determine kidney dysfunction: Urinalysis, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP), Cystatin C and eGFR.

Lab Tests Used to Monitor Kidney Function:

Blood pressure. Your health care provider will devise a plan, which may include diet changes and medications, to keep your blood pressure as close to normal as possible. Target blood pressure is defined as less than 130/80. High blood pressure is one of the main causes of kidney disease.

Blood electrolytes (tested via a CMP test). When the kidneys are not working correctly, you can develop high potassium and low calcium, phosphorus, bicarbonate, which can affect your heart's conduction system and cause muscle aches and other complications.

Urine protein or albumin in the urine (tested by urinalysis). Albumin is the main protein in the blood. When the kidneys become damaged, the holes in the filtering system of your kidneys become enlarged, allowing protein to leak into the urine. In the early stages of kidney damage, only small amounts of albumin (microalbuminuria) are found. This test is very important for people with diabetes because at this early stage of kidney damage, further deterioration can often be prevented by diet, exercise, and medications.

GFR (glomerular filtration rate). This is a measure of how well the kidneys are filtering blood. An estimate of your "filtering rate" is determined by a blood test called a blood creatinine test, which measures the amount of creatinine -- a waste product -- in your blood. This test, along with your age, body size, and gender, provides an estimate of your GFR. The GFR, or "filtering rate," helps confirm normal or low kidney function. A score of 90 or above is normal; a score below 15 indicates kidney damage that will require dialysis or a kidney transplant. Another commonly used test to estimate GFR is a creatinine clearance. This test measures the creatinine in the blood and urine to determine kidney function.

Cystatin C is a protein found in almost all the cells in the body. Cystatin C helps to regulate the activity of enzymes needed to break down bigger molecules both inside of and around those cells.

Cystatin C level in the blood can be measured to determine how well the kidneys are functioning. The kidneys, liver, and spleen all work to filter the blood and excrete any waste substances as urine. This filtration process happens in a microscopic structure in the kidneys: the glomerulus. Each kidney contains approximately one-million glomeruli that function as tiny sieves to extract waste. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) rate is a measure of how well the glomeruli are filtering blood.

If the kidneys and glomeruli are impaired, the GFR could decrease. A decreased GFR can cause certain proteins to accumulate (like cystatin C and creatinine) in the blood.

The levels of cystatin C in the blood can be used to assess the glomerular filtration rate to indirectly provide an assessment of kidney function. Since the concentration of cystatin C in the blood will not change due to infection or inflammation and isn’t affected by body weight, drugs, creatine supplements, or high protein diet - cystatin C level could be a more reliable indicator of kidney health than creatinine.

$142.73

LDH Lactate Dehydrogenase (LD) Isoenzymes Test Panel

$174.34

Lactate dehydrogenase (LD) is an enzyme that is found in almost all of the body's cells, but only a small amount of it is usually detectable in the blood. LD is released from the cells into the bloodstream when cells are damaged or destroyed. Because of this, the LD test can be used as a general marker of injury to cells.

Although there is some overlap, each of the five LD isoenzymes tends to be concentrated in specific body tissues. In general, the isoenzyme locations are as follows:

• LD1: Heart, red blood cells, kidney

• LD2: Heart, red blood cells, kidney (lesser amounts than LD1)

• LD3: Lungs and other tissues

• LD4: White blood cells, lymph nodes, muscle, liver (lesser amounts than LD5)

• LD5: Liver, skeletal muscle

Changes of LD isoenzymes periodically measured following onset of chest pain, studying the relationships of the anodic fractions, provide important information for the differential diagnosis of acute infarct of myocardium. The differential diagnosis of certain other diseases is enhanced as well with the use of LD isoenzymes.

Useful in the differential diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, megaloblastic anemia (folate deficiency, pernicious anemia), hemolytic anemia, and very occasionally renal infarct. These entities are characterized by LD1 increases, often with LD1:LD2 inversion.

The isomorphic pattern (total LD significantly high with no increase in percentage, of any fraction) is seen with neoplasia, cardiorespiratory diseases, hypothyroidism, infectious mononucleosis, and other inflammatory states, uremia, and necrosis.

LD5 increases are seen with striated muscle lesions (eg, trauma) and with liver diseases (eg, hepatic congestion, congestive heart failure, hepatitis, cirrhosis, alcoholism). LD5 increase is probably more significant when the LD5:LD4 ratio is increased.

Although a modicum of controversy exists regarding the most suitable criteria for LD isoenzymes for the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, almost all laboratories recognize abnormality when LD1 equals or is greater than LD2. Alternatives to LD1 greater than LD2 have been proposed. Using an electrophoretic method (Helena), Rotenberg et al suggested the criterion of LD1 >90 units/L. A 1988 study examines application of LD1:LD4 and other ratios and finds that the LD1:LD4 ratio optimizes earlier and is the most powerful diagnostic ratio for acute myocardial infarction.

A few percent of normal individuals may have LD1:LD2 ratios as high as 0.81. A ratio of 0.82−0.99 is suspicious of myocardial injury. A ratio >1.0 is diagnostic of myocardial injury, if other clinical criteria are met. In unstable angina, an increase of the LD1:LD2 ratio is described with normal total LD;3 however, progressively increasing LD1:LD2 ratio without complete inversion may have diagnostic significance for acute myocardial infarct.

Persistent LD1:LD2 flip following acute myocardial infarct may represent a marker for reinfarction. Especially when acute myocardial infarction is complicated by shock, the isomorphic pattern may be found.6 LD1:LD2 inversion commonly appears subsequent to the isomorphic pattern in instances of acute myocardial infarction.

The appearance of an LD “flip” (when LD1 is greater than LD2) is extremely helpful in diagnosis of MI. The presence of a LD “flip” a day following or with the detection of CK-MB is essentially diagnostic of MI, if baseline cardiac enzymes/isoenzymes are normal and if rises and falls are as anticipated for the diagnosis of acute MI. While CK-MB peaks 12 to 24 hours after onset of infarction, LD isoenzymes usually become diagnostic at about 36 to 55 hours after onset and return to normal between 3 and 14 days after onset.

$174.34

LH + FSH

$37.00

Lipid (Cholesterol) Panel (LDL, HDL, Triglycerides)

$18.00

Liver Hepatic Function Panel

$57.75

What Is a Hepatic (Liver) Function Panel?

A liver function panel is a blood test that helps doctors check for liver injury, infection, or disease. Liver function panels also can check for side effects in the liver from some medicines. This lab test panel measures the blood levels of total protein, albumin, bilirubin, and GGT enzymes. High or low levels may mean that liver damage or disease is present.

The liver serves several important functions in the body, including changing nutrients into energy for the body and breaking down toxic substances.

Your doctor may order a liver function panel if you have symptoms of liver disease. These symptoms include fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, yellowing of your eyes or skin (jaundice), dark yellow urine, and feeling very tired. This blood test also may be done if you have recently been exposed to a hepatitis virus or are taking a medicine that may cause liver damage.

A variety of diseases and infections can cause acute or chronic damage to the liver, causing inflammation, scarring, bile duct obstructions, clotting abnormalities, and liver dysfunction. Alcohol, drugs, some herbal supplements, and toxins can also pose a threat. A significant amount of liver damage may be present before symptoms such as jaundice, dark urine, light-colored stools, pruritus, nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, and unexplained weight loss or gain emerge. Early detection is essential to minimize damage and preserve liver function.

LFTs (liver function tests) measure enzymes, proteins, and substances that are produced or excreted by the liver and are affected by liver injury. Some are released by damaged liver cells, and some reflect a decrease in the liver's ability to perform one or more of its functions. When performed together, these tests give the doctor a snapshot of the health of the liver, an indication of the potential severity of any liver injury, change in liver status over time, and a starting place for further diagnostic testing.

What tests are included in a liver function panel?

The panel usually consists of several tests that are performed at the same time on a blood sample. These may include:

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) – an enzyme mainly found in the liver; the best test for detecting hepatitis
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) – an enzyme related to the bile ducts; often increased when they are blocked
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) – an enzyme found in the liver and a few other places, particularly the heart and other muscles in the body
Total bilirubin – measures all the yellow bilirubin pigment in the blood. Another test, direct bilirubin, measures a form combined with another compound in the liver and is often requested with total bilirubin in infants with jaundice.
Albumin – measures the main protein made by the liver and tells whether or not the liver is to an adequate amount of this protein
Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) - an enzyme found mainly in the liver and is a useful marker for detecting bile duct problems
Total protein - measures albumin and all other proteins in blood, including antibodies made to help fight off infections

How Should We Prepare for a Hepatic Function Panel?

You may be asked to stop eating and drinking for 8 to 12 hours before the test. Tell your doctor about any medicines you re taking because some drugs might affect the test results.

DiscountedLabs.com offers affordable blood tests you can order online in the United Sates without the need of a doctor's order. We have no hidden fees and have an easy ordering process.

HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?

Go to the "Find a Location" page to find the closest lab location. No need to make an appointment since walk-ins are welcomed. Once you have identified your closest location, go to step 2.
Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart. If you prefer to save money on bundled tests, we have created "Lab Test Panels" that can help you decide what to order.
If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart.
A $8 lab processing fee will be added to your total.
Pay using a credit card.
You will receive an order confirmation and instructions email on how to download your lab request.
Print lab request form that you downloaded.
Take that form to the closest Quest Diagnostics location with a picture ID. Get your blood drawn.
You will receive an email when the results are ready for you to download.
Note: You cannot place an order under someone else's profile. The profile person's name will appear on the lab order form.
If you have questions, please review our FAQ Page.

If you have further questions, please email [email protected].

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Please read the following frequently asked questions before placing an order: FAQs

$57.75

Male Hormone Panel - Comprehensive

$376.82

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Male Ultra Elite Panel

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Osteoporosis Lab Test Panel

$203.89

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This osteoporosis panel includes:

Serum total calcium, albumin (to calculate albumin adjusted calcium) and phosphorus as part of a CMP panel to detect conditions associated with hypercalcemia such as primary hyperparathyroidism or hypocalcemia and consequent secondary hyperparathyroidism causing bone loss
Serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) as part of the CMP panel are useful to detect renal failure which can affect bone health.
Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) as part of a CMP panel. ALP measurement is useful to detect conditions including Paget's disease, metastatic bone disease and osteomalacia, etc.
Vitamin D nutrition should be determined by measuring serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D]. Although there is controversy about the optimum level of 25(OH)D for bone health; while 50 nmol/L is considered acceptable
Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) measurement would be required if serum calcium is abnormal, to help investigate the cause of the calcium abnormality.
Ultra-sensitive Estradiol. Low estradiol in men and women has been linked to bone loss.

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disorder characterized by low bone mass, micro-architectural deterioration of bone tissue leading to bone fragility, and consequent increase in fracture risk. It is the most common reason for a broken bone among the elderly. Bones that commonly break include the vertebrae in the spine, the bones of the forearm, and the hip. Until a broken bone occurs there are typically no symptoms. Bones may weaken to such a degree that a break may occur with minor stress or spontaneously. After the broken bone heals, the person may have chronic pain and a decreased ability to carry out normal activities.

What Tests Can Diagnose Osteoporosis?

Absolute fracture risk in individual subjects is calculated by the use of algorithms which include bone mineral density (BMD), age, gender, history of prior fracture and other risk factors. This review describes the laboratory investigations into osteoporosis which include serum calcium, phosphate, creatinine, alkaline phosphatase and 25-hydroxyvitamin D and estradiol. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is measured in patients with abnormal serum calcium to determine its cause. Other laboratory investigations such as thyroid function testing, screening for multiple myeloma, and screening for Cushing's syndrome, are performed if indicated. Measurement of bone turnover markers (BTMs) is currently not included in algorithms for fracture risk calculations due to the lack of data.

What Can Cause Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis may be due to lower-than-normal maximum bone mass and greater-than-normal bone loss. Bone loss increases after menopause due to lower levels of estrogen. Osteoporosis may also occur due to a number of diseases or treatments, including alcoholism, anorexia, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, and surgical removal of the ovaries. Certain medications increase the rate of bone loss, including some antiseizure medications, chemotherapy, proton pump inhibitors, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and glucocorticosteroids. Smoking, and too little exercise are also risk factors. Osteoporosis is defined as a bone density of 2.5 standard deviations below that of a young adult. This is typically measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).

Hypogonadal (low testosterone) states can cause secondary osteoporosis. These include Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome, Kallmann syndrome, anorexia nervosa, andropause, hypothalamic amenorrhea or hyperprolactinemia. In females, the effect of hypogonadism is mediated by estrogen deficiency. It can appear as early menopause (<45 years) or from prolonged premenopausal amenorrhea (>1 year). Bilateral oophorectomy (surgical removal of the ovaries) and premature ovarian failure cause deficient estrogen production. In males, testosterone deficiency is the cause (for example, andropause or after surgical removal of the testes).

Endocrine disorders that can induce bone loss include Cushing's syndrome, hyperparathyroidism, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus type 1 and acromegaly, and adrenal insufficiency.

Malnutrition, parenteral nutrition, and malabsorption can lead to osteoporosis. Nutritional and gastrointestinal disorders that can predispose to osteoporosis include undiagnosed and untreated coeliac disease (both symptomatic and asymptomatic people), Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, cystic fibrosis, surgery (after gastrectomy, intestinal bypass surgery or bowel resection) and severe liver disease (especially primary biliary cirrhosis). People with lactose intolerance or milk allergy may develop osteoporosis due to restrictions of calcium-containing foods. Individuals with bulimia can also develop osteoporosis. Those with an otherwise adequate calcium intake can develop osteoporosis due to the inability to absorb calcium and/or vitamin D. Other micronutrients such as vitamin K or vitamin B12 deficiency may also contribute.

What Lab Tests Help to Diagnose Causes of Osteoporosis?

Laboratory investigations in patients with osteoporosis are undertaken to rule out or to detect common causes of osteoporosis in order to treat them. Further targeted investigations may be performed if indicated by clinical presentation, or if the first line investigations are normal but the severity of osteoporosis is unusual for the age and gender. The following first-line measurements may be routinely indicated in the investigation of patients with osteoporosis:

Serum total calcium, albumin (to calculate albumin adjusted calcium) and phosphorus as part of a CMP panel to detect conditions associated with hypercalcemia such as primary hyperparathyroidism or hypocalcemia and consequent secondary hyperparathyroidism causing bone loss; although albumin adjustment for serum calcium is not universally performed, this practice may be useful to correct total calcium measurements skewed by abnormal albumin levels. Alternatively, ionized calcium measurement gives a more accurate measure of calcium homeostasis.
Serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) as part of the CMP panel are useful to detect renal failure which can affect bone health.
Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) as part of a CMP panel. ALP measurement is useful to detect conditions including Paget's disease, metastatic bone disease and osteomalacia, etc. Total ALP is adequate for demonstrating gross increases in bone formation such as those found in most patients with active Paget's disease, osteomalacia, fracture healing or metastatic bone disease, but is not sensitive enough to detect changes in bone remodeling seen in most cases of uncomplicated osteoporosis. Although gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) is suggested by some to distinguish an increase in liver ALP from bone ALP, this is neither sensitive nor specific for this purpose. If changes in bone formation need to be determined with sensitivity or distinguished from an increase in total ALP due to liver disease, a specific bone formation marker such as PINP could be measured.
Vitamin D nutrition should be determined by measuring serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D]. Although there is controversy about the optimum level of 25(OH)D for bone health; while 50 nmol/L is considered acceptable, others have suggested 75 nmol/L as desirable for optimum bone health [27, 28]. If the higher cut-off is used, then the vast majority of menopausal women (76.8%) would be considered to have sub-optimal vitamin D nutrition.
Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) measurement would be required if serum calcium is abnormal, to help investigate the cause of the calcium abnormality.
Ultra-sensitive Estradiol. Low estradiol in men and women has been linked to bone loss.

Other More Detailed Tests Depending on Specific Conditions (Not included):

A full examination of blood and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) would be useful for general health and for inflammatory diseases which often increase bone loss. Serum protein electrophoresis and free light chains in older patients would be useful to exclude multiple myeloma which causes major bone loss. Other secondary causes such as thyrotoxicosis can be excluded with thyroid function tests, and in men hypogonadism is screened with a serum testosterone. In women, the diagnosis of menopause is made clinically and does not warrant estradiol measurement. If Cushing's syndrome is suggested clinically, then screening tests could be performed: 24 hr urine cortisol, midnight salivary cortisol or overnight dexamethasone suppression test. Rarer conditions, if suspected, could be specifically tested; e.g. celiac disease (which is commonly seen in people of European ancestry, but also in parts of Africa, the Middle East and South Asia) with tissue transglutaminase antibody (together with IgA) or systemic mastocytosis with serum tryptase and/or urine methyl histamine. BTMs are not routinely recommended for the assessment of osteoporosis for the reasons stated above. However, if treatment for osteoporosis is to be initiated and monitoring with BTMs is intended, baseline measurement of fasting morning s-CTX and/or s-PINP may be undertaken.

Reference:

Current Recommendations for Laboratory Testing and Use of Bone Turnover Markers in Management of Osteoporosis. Ann Lab Med. 2012 Mar; 32(2): 105–112.

$203.89

Panel: CBC, CMP, TT, FT, Lipids, Prolactin, Ultra Sensitive Estradiol, and SHBG

$257.25

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This panel is popular among men who are on testosterone therapy since it offers substantial savings over ordering each of these tests separately. NOTE: Fasting is required for this panel since it includes lipids and CMP. Tests included are:

Complete Blood Count (CBC) w/ Differential: Hematocrit; hemoglobin; mean corpuscular volume (MCV); mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH); mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC); red cell distribution width (RDW); percentage and absolute differential counts; platelet count; red cell count; white blood cell count; immature granulocytes

Comprehensive Metabolic Profile (CMP) ( includes eGFR ): A:G ratio; albumin, serum; alkaline phosphatase, serum; ALT (SGPT); AST (SGOT); bilirubin, total; BUN; BUN:creatinine ratio; calcium, serum; carbon dioxide, total; chloride, serum; creatinine, serum; globulin, total; glucose, serum; potassium, serum; protein, total, serum; sodium, serum; eGFR

Estradiol Ultra-Sensitive, LC/MS (most accurate estradiol test in men)

Testosterone, Free, Equilibrium Ultrafiltration With Total Testosterone, LC/MS

Prolactin

Lipids (Triglycerides, LDL and HDL)

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)

IMPORTANT: Discounted Labs only serves these states: Find a Location

DiscountedLabs.com offers affordable blood tests you can order online in the United Sates without the need of a doctor's order. We have no hidden fees and have an easy ordering process.

HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?

Go to the "Find a Location" page to find the closest lab location. No need to make an appointment since walk-ins are welcomed. Once you have identified your closest location, go to step 2.
Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart. If you prefer to save money on bundled tests, we have created "Lab Test Panels" that can help you decide what to order.
If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart.
A $8 lab processing fee will be added to your total.
Pay using a credit card.
You will receive an order confirmation and instructions email on how to download your lab request.
Print lab request form that you downloaded.
Take that form to the closest Quest Diagnostics location with a picture ID. Get your blood drawn.
You will receive an email when the results are ready for you to download.
Note: You cannot place an order under someone else's profile. The profile person's name will appear on the lab order form.
If you have questions, please review our FAQ Page.

If you have further questions, please email [email protected].

$257.25

PCOS Hormone Panel

$384.90

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This PCOS lab test panel includes 19 separate tests and panels at the lowest price in the country:

Lipid Panel
CBC
CMP
Prolactin
C-Peptide
TSH
Free T4
Free T3
Sex Hormone binding Globulin
DHEA Sulfate
Estrogen
FSH
Insulin Fasting
A1C
LH
Progesterone
17-OH Progesterone
Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable and Total, MS plus SHBG
Vitamin D

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - Everything You Need to Know

PCOS is one of the most recurrent hormonal disorders among women of all races. Recent medical statistics show that up to 10% of women worldwide suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome. In the United States, the last estimations show that women having PCOS hit 6 million cases.

PCOS is an endocrine condition characterized by metabolic and reproductive abnormalities. This syndrome may cause symptoms and complications for women, from acne, gaining weight, skin tags, anxiety, depression, irregular menstruations to infertility, cancer development, or cardiovascular diseases.

The endocrine system comprises a series of organs and glands that contribute to the production, secrete, and storage hormones. Naturally, women produce androgen hormones (male hormones) in small amounts so the body can work properly.

However, women having PCOS, meaning multiple cysts on the ovary, tend to produce higher amounts of androgen hormones, such as testosterone. This cyst growth leads to various health issues, many of them associated with the reproductive system.

Many women live without being diagnosed until complications or infertility issues arise. It is thought that PCOS may be inherited, and the possibility of developing this syndrome is 50% higher for women having a sister, mother, aunt, or grandmother with this syndrome.

If you are a woman at a reproductive age or want to know more about this so you can create awareness for the women in your life, keep reading and learn how to handle and treat this syndrome.

What are the Symptoms Associated with PCOS?

As previously mentioned, PCOS is a complex disorder, the symptoms associated with it are numerous and can be associated with other minor problems. This is one of the reasons there are still many cases undiagnosed yet, women living with this disorder untreated.

Symptoms a woman may experience:

Irregular menstruation or its absence
Abnormal facial and body hair growth
Prone to acne
Hair loss
Infertility
Weight increase
Skin tags or dark spots
Mood-related issues ( depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, poor body image)
Sleep apnoea

How is PCOS Diagnosed?

If you experience symptoms associated with this syndrome, the best you can do is to see a doctor. If you don't have an endocrinologist or gynecologist, contact your GP to get a referral. As soon as this health disorder is diagnosed, the more you'll reduce the risks of complications.

The usual PCOS diagnosis process includes:

A clinical examination
Evaluation of the medical history
Hormonal tests
Pelvic ultrasound

What are The Main Hormones that Can Diagnose PCOS?

The most conclusive method to diagnose and monitor PCOS is a hormonal analysis which an endocrinologist usually recommends at different stages of your menstruation. It is paramount to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the timelines of testing.

Here is the most comprehensive panel that indicates the presence of PCOS and at the same help excluding other diagnoses.

Lipid Panel (LDL/HDL,triglycerides)
CBC (complete blood count)
CMP (comprehensive metabolic count)
Prolactin
C-Peptide
TSH
Free T4
Free T3
Sex Hormone binding Globulin
DHEA Sulfate
Estrogen
FSH
Insulin Fasting
A1C
LH
Progesterone
17-OH Progesterone
Testosterone, Total (LC/MS), and Free (Equilibrium Dialysis)
Vitamin D

How to Evaluate Your Hormonal Test Values?

The lipid panel consists of:

LDL (bad cholesterol)
HDL (good cholesterol)
Triglyceride (fats in the bloodstream associated with cardiovascular disease)

It is a valuable test type to be considered when trying to diagnose PCOS. It was discovered that 70% of women with PCOS present abnormal lipid values. Low HDL, high triglycerides, or low-density lipoprotein were assessed.

Lipid panel tests	Normal Values for Women
Total cholesterol	125-200 mg/dL
LDL	<100 mg/dL
HDL	50 mg/dL or >
Triglycerides	<150 mg/dL

The complete blood count is a standard test to check your overall health condition. This test keeps track of the number of cells found in the blood composition: the platelets, white cells, and blood cells.

Complete blood count CBC	Normal values for Women
White blood cells	4.500-11.000 cells/mcL
Red blood cells	4.1-5.1 million cells/mcL
Hematocrit	35.9% -44.6 %
Hemoglobin	12.3-15.3 gm/dL
Platelets	150.000- 450.000 platelets/mcL

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel- As metabolic and reproductive abnormalities characterize PCOS, this test is highly recommended to assess organs such as kidneys, liver, and metabolic function.

It is an efficient way to identify the causes of general symptoms associated with different health conditions, such as fatigue.

The CMP comprises 14 indicators such as glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, chloride, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, albumin, total protein, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), bilirubin.

The results of the tests should be evaluated together with your doctor considering your medical history and medication.

CMP panel	Normal Values for Women
Glucose	70 to 99 mg/dL
Calcium	8.6-10.2 mg/dL
Sodium	136-145 mEq/L
Potassium	3.5-5.0 mEq/L
Bicarbonate	23-28 mEq/L
Chloride	98-106 mEq/L
Blood Urea Nitrogen	8-20 mg/dL
Creatinine	0.5-1.10 mg/dL
Albumin	3.5-5.5 g/dL
Total protein	5.5-9.0 g/dL
Alkaline phosphatase ( ALP)	30-120 U/L
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)	10-40 U/L
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)	10-40 U/L
Bilirubin	0.3-1.0 mg/dL

Prolactin- is on the top of the list when it comes to PCOS and its relation with infertility. Many studies were conducted over the years and despite many beliefs that hyperprolactinemia can show a clear link with infertility, recent observations reject these evaluations.

Nevertheless, for women, prolactin evaluation can help in diagnosing menstruation disorders, suspicions of pituitary tumors, and amenorrhea.

The normal value for a nonpregnant woman is < 25 ng/mL, while values are between 80-400 ng/mL for a pregnant woman.

C-Peptide test-measures the C-peptide levels in blood and urine. Usually, this test measures the insulin level. Doctors recommend the test for differentiating type 1 diabetes for type 2 or finding the causes for abnormal blood sugar.

The normal value of this test under fasting is between 0.8 – 3.85 ng/mL, while after meals, 3-9 ng/mL.

TSH test- used to determine thyroid health and differentiate an overactive thyroid from an underactive one.

TSH levels need to be tested especially during menopause, menstruation, and at the moment of giving birth. These are moments when the TSH levels can be modified.

The normal values for this indicator are between 0.5 -5.0 mIU/L.

Free T4- also known as thyroxine, is one of the hormones produced by the thyroid. This test is usually performed to evaluate the general thyroid function and identify possible issues as

The normal value for this indicator is between 0.9-2.3 ng/dL.

Free T3-or triiodothyronine alongside thyroxine is the main hormone released by the thyroid. Their role is to regulate various functions in your body.

The normal value for this indicator is between 2.3–4.2 pg/mL.

Sex Hormone binding Globulin or (SHBG)- is a protein released by the liver which connects to hormones like testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and estradiol. SHBG also controls how much of these hormones are delivered to fat tissues.

This hormone test it's one of the most important indicators in the evaluation of PCOS cases.

The normal value for nonpregnant women is between 18-144 nmol/L, while for pregnant women, this may be expected to rise. Too small amounts of this hormone may indicate PCOS.

DHEA Sulfate- also known as dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, is a masculine hormone localized in the adrenal gland which helps women produce estrogen, controls blood pressure, and regulates body functions. This test is recommended for women to diagnose ovaries issues, check for causes of hirsutism or investigate menstrual abnormalities.

The normal values for this indicator according to age are displayed below:

Age	Normal values
>20 years	145-395 mcg/dL
20-30 years	65-380 mcg/dL
30-40 years	45-270 mcg/dL
<40	32-240 mcg/dL

Estrogen- is an essential hormone in developing feminine features, also regulating the menstruation cycles. Testing this hormone can offer a series of information regarding a woman's possibility of getting pregnant, overall health, and menstruation.

Four types of estrogen impact a woman's life over her years: estrone, estradiol, estriol, estetrol. The most active estrogen type is estradiol. Over time, as menopause approaches, the values will be lower and fluctuant.

Menstrual cycle	Normal values
Follicular	98 – 571 pmol/L
Mid-cycle	177 – 1153 pmol/L
Luteal	122 – 1094 pmol/L
Postmenopause	<183 pmol/L

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)-is produced in the brain by the pituitary gland, the FSH is a hormone influencing sexual development and the ovarian follicles (eggs).

Menstrual cycle	Normal values
Follicular	3.5 – 12.5 IU/L
Mid-cycle	4.7 – 21.5 IU/L
Luteal	1.7 – 7.7 IU/L
Postmenopause	25.8 – 134.8 IU/L

Insulin Fasting-this test is performed under fasting conditions to verify insulin resistance.

The normal value for this indicator is generally accepted between 2-20 mIU/mL.

A1C-or hemoglobin A1C is a test that can offer information about sugar levels in your blood for the last few months. It is an excellent indicator in evaluating diabetes cases. Your doctor may recommend this in case of PCOS complications.

Values	Status
<5.7 %	Normal, no diabet
5.7% - 6.4 %	Prediabetes
6.5% or <	Diabetes

LH- the luteinizing hormone has an important role in the development of sexual function and also in the regulation of the menstrual cycle. Increased values of this indicator can suggest a primary ovarian failure. This analysis is required in cases of infertility, menstrual abnormalities, or delayed puberty for girls.

Menstrual cycle phase	Normal values
follicular phase	1.9 to 12.5 IU/L
mid- cycle	8.7 to 76.3 IU/L
luteal phase	0.5 to 16.9 IU/L
pregnancy	less than 1.5 IU/L
postmenopause	15.9 to 54.0 IU/L

Progesterone- a hormone produced by the ovaries, is a vital hormone when looking to get pregnant. This is an indicator that has to be checked at a specific stage of your menstrual phase, at the indicator of your medical provider.

The normal value for this indicator should be between 5-20 ng/mL.

17-OH Progesterone - hormone produced by the adrenal glands, usually recommended when a woman is suspected of congenital adrenal hyperplasia disorder.

The normal values are considered to be less than 200 ng/dL.

Testosterone, Total (LC/MS), and Free (Equilibrium Dialysis)-these are key tests when it comes to PCOS, recommended for women suspected of increases in androgen hormones.

Normal testosterone levels for women between 18- 70 years old are considered to be between 0.5 to 2.4 nmol/L.

Vitamin D- vital for bone development, skin, teeth, or immune system also has a powerful impact on balancing hormones such as testosterone, SHBG, insulin for women with PCOS.

The normal values for an adult woman are between 20-80 ng/mL.

What Are The Risks Associated with PCOS?

Leaving PCOS untreated may quickly degenerate to other serious conditions that can potentially damage your quality of life. Numerous women are facing:

Insulin resistance leads to type 2 diabetes
Obesity
Heart attack
Stroke
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Other women are at risk of developing endometrial cancer because of irregular menstruations
Depression, anxiety

Can PCOS be Treated?

PCOS can be treated by having the proper treatment and some lifestyle changes. The treatment should be developed by a specialist like an endocrinologist or gynecologist. Also, it is recommended to ask for help from a dietitian and a physiotherapist.

Some lifestyle changes that you can start today involve:

Eat healthier, more greens and fruits
Limit fried, processed foods
Obtain and maintain the optimal weight
Start exercising (pilates, yoga, light aerobic)

The Bottom Line

Hormones influence our overall health, appearance, and mental state. Prevention is the key to maintaining a healthy life. Doctors recommend at least a visit a year to a gynecologist and an endocrinologist.

Make sure you are one step ahead of any issue and order your PCOS hormonal panel to give you a full-length evaluation of your health. Go to DiscountedLabs.com and order your test today from the comfort of your home.

$384.90

Post PCT Panel

$152.07

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Pre Op Surgery Lab Test Panel

$57.75

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This pre-op surgery lab test panel includes:

Complete Blood Count (CBC):

A CBC also helps your health professional diagnose conditions like infection, anemia, and several other disorders. Test includes: WBC, RBC, Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW, Platelets, Neutrophils, Lymphs, Monocytes, Eos, Basos, Neutrophils (Absolute), Lymphs (Absolute), Monocytes(Absolute), Eos (Absolute), Basos (Absolute), Immature Granulocytes, Immature Grans (Abs)

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

This panel includes:

The Serum Glucose test is how we diagnose diabetes. If the glucose is 126 on a fasting blood draw, meaning the blood was drawn first thing in the morning after an overnight fast, before you ate any breakfast, then you have diabetes. Now, that's assuming that when we repeat the test, we get the same results. It needs to be abnormal more than once.

The Uric Acid test is how we diagnose gout.

The BUN, Blood Urea Nitrogen, can be abnormal in kidney disease, dehydration, and heart failure, as well as malnutrition and liver disease.

The Serum Creatinine is a measure of kidney function. The BUN to Creatinine ratio can give information on the possible cause of the kidney dysfunction, say heart failure or dehydration or decreased kidney blood flow.

The Serum Sodium can be increased in dehydration. The Serum Sodium can be decreased in diuretic therapy and in the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone abbreviated, SIADH. The Serum Potassium can be increased in adrenal insufficiency and acute renal failure, as well as with an inappropriate combination of medicines. Potassium could be decreased in primary aldosteronism, diuretic therapy, and renal tubular acidosis.

The Serum Chloride can be increased in dehydration and renal tubular acidosis, and it can be decreased in congestive heart failure and in primary aldosteronism. The Carbon Dioxide can be increased in primary pulmonary disease, such as severe COPD and in primary aldosteronism. It can be decreased in metabolic acidosis, such as occurs with the diabetic ketoacidosis.

The Serum Calcium can be increased in an endocrine disease called primary hyperthyroidism. It can also be increased in malignancy. However, most of the time, when a person has a high Serum Calcium found unexpectedly, it's simply due to hyperparathyroidism, which can be treated. Now, we can also have a decreased Serum Calcium in hypoparathyroidism and in vitamin D deficiency.

The Serum Phosphorus can be increased in acute or chronic renal failure and decreased in malabsorption and vitamin D deficiency.

The total Serum Protein can be increased in multiple myeloma and sarcoidosis, and it can be decreased in chronic glomerulonephritis, which is a type of chronic renal disease.

The Serum Albumin can be decreased in liver disease, cirrhosis, and in nephrotic syndrome. The total Globulin and the Albumin to Globulin ratio can be increased or decreased due to a number of causes.

Prothrombin Time (PT INR)

This test includes prothrombin time plus INR and it measures how long it takes your blood to clot. It’s used to monitor the effects of the medication warfarin, and can help identify possible hereditary and clotting disorders

$57.75

Pre- TRT MALE Hormone / Wellness Panel

$293.69

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Prolactin

$30.00

What is Prolactin?

Prolactin is a hormone produced in the pituitary gland that is known for supporting lactation in women but also have many other functions on immune response, myelin coating on nerves, and also enhances LH receptors on testicular Leydig cells so that testosterone can be produced.

Prolactin levels peak during REM sleep, and in the early morning. Levels can rise after exercise, meals, sexual intercourse, minor surgical procedures, or following epileptic seizures.

Normal Prolactin Ranges:

Adult Males			2.0-18.0 ng/mL
Adult Females
Non-Pregnant			3.0-30.0 ng/mL
Pregnant			10.0-209.0 ng/mL
Postmenopausal			2.0-20.0 ng/mL

During pregnancy and postpartum lactation, serum prolactin can increase 10- to 20-fold. Exercise, stress, and sleep also cause transient increases in prolactin levels. Consistently elevated serum prolactin levels (>30 ng/mL), in the absence of pregnancy and postpartum lactation, are indicative of hyperprolactinemia. Hypersecretion of prolactin can be caused by pituitary adenomas, hypothalamic disease, breast or chest wall stimulation, renal failure or hypothyroidism. A number of drugs, including many antidepressants, are also common causes of abnormally elevated prolactin levels. Hyperprolactinemia often results in galactorrhea, amenorrhea, and infertility in females, and in impotence and hypogonadism in males. Renal failure, hypothyroidism, and prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas are also common causes of abnormally elevated prolactin levels.

High Prolactin Consequenses

High prolactin can decrease testosterone and cause sexual dysfunction.

Higher levels of prolactin have been associated with tumors involving the lungs, the pituitary gland, and the kidneys. Prolactin is sometimes used by doctors to evaluate sexual dysfunction of unknown cause in both men and women.

High blood levels of prolactin are more common than low levels. Hyperprolactinemia (Prolactin > 50 ng/dL) is the most frequent abnormality of the anterior pituitary tumors, termed prolactinomas. Prolactinomas may disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis as prolactin tends to suppress the secretion of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH– hormone responsible for activating the pituitary to male Luteinizing and Follicle Stimulating hormones- LH and FSH) therefore causing low testosterone and sperm production. Such hormonal changes may manifest as impotence in males. Inappropriate lactation in men is another important clinical sign of prolactinomas (yes, men's breast tissue can produce small amounts of milk if high prolactin blood levels are present).

However,low prolactin blood levels have also been found to be linked to sexual dysfunction and other issues. Since prolactin seems to be involved in immune response and heart muscle integrity, keeping healthy levels is important.

Substantial elevation in prolactin (>50 ng/mL) usually indicates a pituitary tumor. Very high levels of prolactin are associated with larger tumors. Prolactinomas are classified as microadenomas (<10 mm) and macroadenomas (>10 mm). The finding of a substantial elevation in blood levels of prolactin association with a pituitary lesion larger than 10 mm by radiographic analysis supports the diagnosis of a macroprolactinoma.

Modest levels of prolactin elevation (25–50 ng/mL) may be associated with several diagnoses. All other causes of hyperprolactinemia should be excluded before a tumor is considered. Primary hypothyroidism and chronic renal disease is associated with elevations in prolactin, probably because of altered metabolism or clearance of prolactin.

Some medications can increase prolactin blood levels in men, as shown in this table (From 2007 Oct; 3(5): 929–951.)

When to Get the Prolactin Lab Test:

1- Men not on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) with very low levels of total testosterone (T level <150 ng/dL), especially if lower than normal LH is observed. For such male patients, testing for prolactin is used as screening for a potential pituitary gland problem (these men are referred to MRI)

2- Men with fluid production from their nipples. This has been observed in some men on anabolic steroids.

3- Men who have been on optimized TRT (TT levels above 500 ng/dL with free testosterone > 2 percent of TT) who complain of erectile dysfunction after at least 8-12 weeks of therapy. Prolactin is not usually included in baseline lab work due to cost and the fact that the incidence of high prolactin in men is about 5 percent, making it not economically justified. However, if baseline total testosterone is very low or optimized TRT fails to improve ED, prolactin testing could be justified.

FREE BONUS: EBook: Beyond Testosterone

Suggested Reading: Testosterone Replacement Blood Test Targets

$30.00

Testosterone (T+F), Estradiol and DHT Panel

$186.90

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This panel contains testosterone and its downstream metabolites: Estradiol and DHT. All three hormones are measured using Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS), the most accurate assay for hormones. No interactions with supplements like biotin are present.

Around 0.4% of testosterone aromatizes to estradiol in fat mass, testicles, and liver. Around 10% of testosterone converts to DHT via the alpha reductase enzyme. This enzyme is produced in many tissues in both males and females, in the reproductive tract, testes and ovaries, skin, seminal vesicles, prostate, epididymis and many organs, including the nervous system.

Testosterone, Total, LC/MS and Free (Equilibrium Ultrafiltration)

This panel includes total testosterone measured by the most accurate method (liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry LC/MS), free testosterone percent by equilibrium dialysis/ultrafiltration, and free testosterone calculated from percent free T. It is adequate for men who expect high T levels and women (LC/MS is accurate for high and low T levels also).

Total Testosterone:

– Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS)- No upper limit

– Analytical sensitivity: 1.0 ng/dL

– Analytical specificity: no cross-reactivity with other steroid compounds

– Analytical Measurement Range: 1.0 ng/dL to 2,000 ng/dL

Free and Total Testosterone:

– Percent free: equilibrium dialysis/ultrafiltration

– Free: calculated based on total and percent free testosterone

Ultrasensitive Estradiol Test

This test may take up to 7 business days to obtain results. Estradiol is produced by the body via the aromatization of testosterone in fat tissue, liver, and testicles. Estradiol is involved in bone health, cognitive function, sex drive, and body composition in both men and women. Depending on lifestyle factors, liver Issues, medications, body fat mass, and genetics, some people may have higher estradiol conversions from testosterone.

DHT Test

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is synthesized from testosterone in the prostate gland, testes, hair follicles, and adrenal glands by 5-alpha reductase. Dihydrotestosterone exerts its action similar to testosterone, which binds to and activates androgen receptors. Dihydrotestosterone is responsible for the formation of male primary sex characteristics and most male secondary sex characteristics during puberty, such as muscular growth, facial and body hair growth, and deepening of the voice.

$186.90

Testosterone (T+F), Hematocrit, Ultra Sensitive Estradiol and Prolactin Panel

$190.08

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This panel saves you money by bundling these tests:

Testosterone, Free, Equilibrium Ultrafiltration With Total Testosterone, LC/MS. No Upper or Lower Limit. Free T is calculated by first getting the percent free T by equilibrium dialysis/ultrafiltration and then calculating the actual free T value based on total and percent free testosterone.

Hematocrit is the portion of total blood volume made up of red blood cells. Testosterone replacement therapy can increase hematocrit. Hematocrit over 52 may increase blood thickness and cardiovascular risks.

Estradiol (ULtra Sensitive LC/MS) is produced by the body via the aromatization of testosterone in fat tissue, liver, and testicles. Estradiol is involved in bone health, cognitive function, sex drive, and body composition in both men and women. Depending on lifestyle factors, liver issues, medications, body fat mass, and genetics, some people may have higher estradiol conversions from testosterone. The use of a ultra sensitive, LC/MS assay for serum E2 measurement in males is preferred over direct immunoassays because of its greater sensitivity and lesser interference by other steroids. In males, estradiol is present at low concentrations in blood, but it is extraordinarily high in semen. Estradiol plays an important function in sperm maturation and is essential for normal spermatogenesis and sperm motility. It is also essential for healthy bone density, body composition, lipids, and brain function. However, E2 excess in the presence of low testosterone and genetic factors can cause gynecomastia in some men.

Prolactin is secreted by the pituitary gland. There are two major functions of prolactin: to induce milk production and to develop nerve cells. Higher levels of prolactin have been associated with tumors involving the lungs, the pituitary gland, and the kidneys. A prolactin test is sometimes used by doctors to evaluate sexual dysfunction of unknown cause in both men and women. Drugs, supplements and certain diseases like pituitary adenomas may disrupt normal prolactin blood levels. These include hypothyroidism, antiepileptics, antidepressants, estrogen, opiates, diuretics, certain growth hormone-releasing peptides and arginine.

IMPORTANT: Discounted Labs only serves these states: Find a Location

How does DiscountedLabs.com work: Click here

FREE BONUS: EBook: Beyond Testosterone

Suggested Reading: Testosterone Replacement Blood Test Targets

If you have any questions, please visit our FAQ page

$190.08

Testosterone (Total + Free), Ultrasensitive Estradiol & Hematocrit

$91.35

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This economical lab test panel includes the four tests more frequently ordered by men on TRT:

Total Testosterone, Liquid Chromatography/ Mass Spectrometry (The most accurate testosterone test with no lower or upper limit).
Free Testosterone, Equilibrium Dialysis (The gold standard for free testosterone testing)
Ultrasensitive Estradiol (The most accurate estradiol test also done using liquid chromatography/ mass spectrometry with no interference from inflammatory markers and supplements like biotin)
Hematocrit (Portion of red blood cells in blood. High hematocrit is the main side effect of testosterone. It is important to determine if a blood donation is needed).

NOTE: Results for hormone tests that use liquid chromatography can take 5-7 business days.

HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?

1- Go to the "Find a Location" page to make sure we serve your state and that there is a Quest Diagnostics location near you.

2- Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart. You can also save money by buying bundled lab test panels.

3- If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart.

4- If you don't have an account with us, you will be asked to create one by adding your name, address, gender, and date of birth.

5- Place your order by using a credit card.

6- You will receive three emails: an order confirmation & detailed instructions within minutes about how to download your lab requisition form to take to the lab near you.

7- Print the lab requisition form (PDF file).

8- Take that form to the Quest Diagnostics lab near you . You can walk in but we suggest that you make an appointment to cut down on potential waiting (instructions on how to do so are in our "Find a Location" page). Get your blood drawn at the lab.

9- Your results will be ready within 3-7 business days (Depending on the test. Sensitive hormone tests done by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry LC/MS take 5-7 business days). You will received them by email as soon as they come in.

$91.35

Testosterone + LH + FSH Panel

$96.60

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This lab test panel is good for men and women.

This panel includes:

Testosterone, Total, LC/MS and Testosterone, Free (Equilibrium Dialysis)
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

This panel is useful in determining the health of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis (HPTA) and whether a man has primary or secondary hypogonadism. Only for men and women not currently on testosterone therapy. If you are on TRT, LH and FSH will be zero or very low, so this panel would not be helpful.

Testosterone, LH, FSH - Everything you Need to Know

The examination of FSH, LH, and testosterone is helpful in the treatment of male infertility.

The primary regulators of germ cell development are:

FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone)
LH (the luteinizing hormone)
Testosterone

This panel is helpful in determining primary or secondary hypogonadism disorder. It is also recommended for assessing the health of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis, also known as HPTA.

Tests will be worth considering only for persons who do not undertake TRT, LH, or FSH therapy at the time.

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone is the most essential male hormone, with a significant role in developing a man's reproductive system. Still, it plays a vital role in many other areas of health, both for men and women.

Testosterone is produced in the testicles and ovaries. Testosterone is also significantly reduced in the adrenal glands (located above the kidneys) in both sexes.

The brain and pituitary gland (a small endocrine gland at the base of the brain that secretes hormones) control testosterone production.

The hypothalamus transmits to the pituitary gland how much hormone to produce, and the pituitary gland sends the message to the testicles or ovaries. Further on, testosterone, like other hormones, enters the bloodstream, reaching other organs.

Why Should You Test Your Testosterone?

For men, testing may be recommended for:

Clinical suspicion of androgenic deficiency (primary hypogonadism, hypopituitarism, Klinefelter's syndrome, Down syndrome, delayed puberty, sexual impotence, infertility, estrogen treatment, liver cirrhosis)
Clinical suspicion of androgenic excess: adrenal cortical tumors, early puberty

In women, testing may be recommended for:

Hirsutism, anovulation, amenorrhea, or virilization (possible causes: polycystic ovary syndrome, virilizing ovarian tumors, adrenal cortical tumors, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia)

What is LH?

Together with FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), LH belongs to the gonadotropic family. The secretion of FSH and LH is pulsatile and is controlled by the intermittent release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus.

LH and FSH regulate and stimulate the growth and functioning of the gonads (ovaries and testicles). The two hormones are produced by the gonadotropic cells of the anterior pituitary gland. They reach the blood and from there to the gonads.

In the ovaries, gonadotropins stimulate the growth and maturation of follicles, the formation and evolution of the corpus luteum, and the synthesis and secretion of estrogen and progesterone.

In men, LH stimulates the activity of Leydig testicular cells, which is why it is also called the interstitial cell-stimulating hormone.

The highest level of LH occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle, inducing ovulation and the formation of the corpus luteum (whose main secretion product is progesterone). In Leydig cells in the LH testes, it stimulates testosterone production and controls the normal maturation of sperm.

Why Should You Test Your LH levels?

For men, LH testing may be recommended for:

Elucidation of dysfunctions of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (mainly for the differential diagnosis between primary testicular failure and testicular stimulation deficiency)
Ectopic secretion of LH by a neoplasm

In women, testing may be recommended for:

Elucidation of dysfunctions of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (mainly for the differential diagnosis between primary ovarian failure and ovarian stimulation deficiency)
Polycystic ovary disease (Stein-Leventhal syndrome)
Clarification of the causes of amenorrhea
Congenital diseases with chromosomal aberrations Turner syndrome)
Diagnosis and treatment of infertility
Ectopic secretion of LH by a neoplasm
Menopausal syndrome

What is FSH?

Follicular hormone (FSH) is an essential component of the body's reproductive function, being responsible for the development of ovarian follicles in women and the production of sperm in men.

In women, ovarian follicles produce estrogen and progesterone and help maintain menstrual cycles.

FSH is required for the start of spermatogenesis and the maturation of spermatozoa.

Higher levels of FSH in infertile men are thought to be a reliable sign of germinal epithelium damage. High FSH blood levels have been linked to sperm production issues like azoospermia and severe oligozoospermia.

In men, FSH is a component of the development of the testicular function, contributing to the production of semen. FSH analysis measures the levels of FSH in the blood.

Your doctor may recommend this test to find the underlying cause of the symptoms that affect your reproductive system.

Why Should You Test Your FSH Levels?

In women, FSH testing may be recommended for:

Assessment of fertility problems
Evaluation of irregular menstrual cycles
Diagnosis of pituitary gland disorders or ovarian diseases

In men, FSH testing may be recommended for:

Assessment of the reduced amount of semen
Establish a diagnosis of hypogonadism or gonadal insufficiency
Establishing testicular dysfunction

What is the HPTA?

HPTA stands for hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis. It is composed of:

GnRH - hypothalamus gonadotropin-releasing hormone
FSH
LH
Gonadal steroids

The hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis is primarily responsible for male reproduction, development, and maintenance of male sexual traits.

The male reproductive hormonal cascade is regulated by GnRH, which is the key regulator. Through a closed-loop feedback system, the HPT axis maintains a dynamic equilibrium of serum levels of reproductive hormones.

Following the progress made in the field of reproduction, it results that the main circuit hypothalamus-pituitary-testicular is not independent but is integrated into the endocrine system, in which the general balance is maintained by functional coordination between the glands.

The functional disorganization, at any level, of this general circuit will have transitory or definitive implications on the genital sphere of the male and, more precisely, on his fertility.

What is Hypogonadism?

Hypogonadism in men is a congenital or acquired syndrome in which the testicles fail to produce physiological levels of testosterone and sperm because there is a dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis.

Hypogonadism is classified into two main categories: primary and secondary. There is no universal cause for this. These two testosterone deficiency types may be either inherited or caused by a particular event in life, like infections or injuries. Sometimes, these disorders may happen together at once.

The hormonal and reproductive function of the testicles (gonads) is regulated through interactions among the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and the gonads (commonly known as the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis [HPGA] or HPTA). The three glands communicate through a cascade of hormones and a self-regulating feedback loop that controls the generation of each hormone. The release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus regulates the secretion of other hormones (gonadotropins) that influence the testicles by way of the pituitary. GnRH controls the anterior pituitary secretion of two gonadotropin hormones- luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Luteinizing hormone regulates the production and secretion of testosterone through the Leydig cells of the testes, while FSH stimulates the production of sperm.

When someone is diagnosed with low testosterone blood levels, this is known as “hypogonadism” There are several types of hypogonadism:

Primary hypogonadism is a hypergonadotropic condition (higher than normal levels of LH and FSH). This occurs when the testicles fail to produce sufficient testosterone levels to suppress the production of LH and FSH. As a result, LH and FSH levels are elevated while testosterone levels are decreased. The pituitary gland tries to increase testosterone to no avail, even after increasing LH and FSH.

Secondary hypogonadism results from hypothalamic or pituitary dysfunction. It is characterized by disruption of central components of the HPGA, resulting in decreased levels of GnRH, LH, or FSH. In this type of hypogonadism, low levels of LH do not allow for the proper stimulation of testosterone production by the testes.

Mixed hypogonadism results from a combination of primary and secondary causes. The most common cause of mixed hypogonadism is late-onset hypogonadism, which occurs with aging. This is associated with osteoporosis, decreased lean body mass, reduced cognition, fatigue, and impaired libido and erectile function. Other causes of mixed hypogonadism include alcoholism, diseases (such as uremia, liver failure, AIDS, and sickle cell disease), street drugs/alcohol, and medications like corticosteroid steroids used for inflammatory conditions. It should be noted that high cortisol levels (hypercortisolism), resulting from either the use of anti-inflammatory steroids or physical causes, could lead to hypogonadism.

What Are the Symptoms of Low Testosterone (Hypogonadism)?

Clinical symptoms depend on the age at which the hormone deficiency sets in androgens.

If hypogonadism develops before puberty, for example, as part of a condition genetic, the man will have:

Eunuchoid proportions,
Delayed secondary sexual characters
High voice

Symptoms are less specific if hypogonadism develops after puberty and is characterized, for example, by:

Reduced sexual function
Infertility
Decreased energy
Depression
Mild anemia
Decreased muscle volume and strength
Increased adipose tissue and BMI

Order Your Testosterone Tests Now

As hormones are sometimes unpredictable and may affect us more than we can see with the bare eye, it is recommended to have at least once a year a check-up. If any of the symptoms above are present, it is recommended to visit a doctor anytime soon. For testosterone, LH, FSH testing, and many others, go to DiscountedLabs.com and take your test in the proximity of your home.

Click for more information about how to choose the best testosterone test for you.

FREE BONUS: EBook: Beyond Testosterone

Suggested Reading: Testosterone Replacement Blood Test Targets

How to Increase Testosterone

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Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable and Total (With Lower & Upper Limit) plus SHBG

$75.36

This is the most cost effective testosterone test panel that takes the least amount of time to perform and that includes 5 important tests: 1- Total testosterone, 2- Calculated free testosterone, 3- Calculated bioavailable (unbound) testosterone, 4- Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and albumin. Testosterone upper limit under 1,500 ng/dL and lower limit of 250 ng/dL (ECLIA, immunoassay).

This panel is accurate for most men using or not using TRT . For men expecting very high testosterone blood levels over 1,500 ng/dL or low testosterone levels under 250 ng/dL, the testosterone LC/MS panel or the Testosterone Total LC/MS & Free T by Equilibrium Analysis, Biovailable T and SHBG panel is more appropiate but takes a few more days to perform.

Women can order this other testosterone panel since their T levels may be lower, which requires liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry for accuracy.

Important Note on Test Accuracy for Low Testosterone Levels:

Due to the diminished accuracy of immunoassay at total testosterone levels below 250 ng/dL, calculations of the Free and Bioavailable Testosterone are not accurate and will not be reported.

Lab Test Collection Instructions

Testosterone, Total, Males (Adult), Immunoassay: Dietary supplements containing biotin may interfere in assays and may skew results to be either falsely high or falsely low. For patients receiving the recommended daily doses of biotin, draw samples at least 8 hours following the last biotin supplementation. For patients on mega-doses of biotin supplements, draw samples at least 72 hours following the last biotin supplementation.

Note: The lab requisition form will list this test as

Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable and Total, Males (Adult)

without including SHBG. No worries! The results will include SHBG since it is needed to calculate bioavailable testosterone.

IMPORTANT: Discounted Labs only serves these states: Find a Location

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Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable, and Total, LC/MS (No Upper & Lower Limit) plus SHBG

$140.50

Testosterone, SHBG, Hematocrit, Sensitive Estradiol and PSA

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Testosterone, Thyroid and Estradiol Panel

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Ordering these 5 hormone tests as a panel saves you $10 when comparing it to buying tests separately.

- Total and Free Testosterone ( LC/MS assay that can measure with no upper limit)

This test measures both total testosterone by the most liquid chromatography/ mass spectrometry with no upper limit (suitable even for TT levels above 1500 nd/dL). Free testosterone by Equilibrium Dialysis.

- TSH, free T4 and free T3

This panel includes comprehensive testing of the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in addition to free thyroxine (T4) and free triiodothyronine (T3). When the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormone, the body uses energy at a slower pace than it should. This condition, underactive thyroid, is called hypothyroidism.

- Ultra-Sensitive Estradiol (LC/MS)

Estradiol is produced by the body via the aromatization of testosterone in fat tissue, liver, and testicles. Estradiol is involved in bone health, cognitive function, sex drive, and body composition in both men and women. Depending on lifestyle factors, liver Issues, medications, body fat mass, and genetics, some people may have higher estradiol conversions from testosterone.

NOTE: If you are taking biotin, please stop it 72 hours before the blood draw since it may interfere with hormone blood tests.

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FREE BONUS: EBook: Beyond Testosterone

Suggested Reading: Testosterone Replacement Blood Test Targets

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First time customer? Please read this before ordering: How Does Discounted Labs Work?

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Testosterone, Total and Free (NO Upper Limit) plus Hematocrit

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Testosterone, Total, LC/MS and Free (Equilibrium Dialysis)

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THYROID Panel (TSH + Free T3 + Free T4)

$89.00

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Thyroid hormones regulate our body's metabolism and influence virtually every organ system in the body. They tell organs how fast or slow they should work. Thyroid hormones also regulate the body's consumption of oxygen and production of heat. Thyroid problems, such as an overactive or underactive thyroid, can severely affect metabolism. This panel includes comprehensive testing of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in addition to free thyroxine (T4) and free triiodothyronine (T3). When the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormone, the body uses energy at a slower pace than it should. This condition, underactive thyroid, is called hypothyroidism. Panel includes:

TSH
Free T3
Free T4

A study found that TSH was suppressed in all subjects after food, so fasting may be suggested although it is not reqired by Quest. Free T4 and Free T4 values did not change significantly after eating.

You can add reverse T3 and thyroid AB and anti-TPO antibodies by adding those tests to your cart.

Lab Test Collection Instructions

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HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?

1- Go to the "Find a Location" page to find the closest Quest lab location.

2- Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart.

3- If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart.

4- Pay using a credit card.

5- You will receive an order confirmation and a lab request form by email.

6- Print lab request form attached to the lab request form email (PDF file).

7- Take that form to the closest lab with a picture ID. Get your blood drawn. No lab fee is required.

8- Your results will be emailed to you within 5-7 business days (depending on the test).

$89.00

THYROID Panel - COMPREHENSIVE

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This test panel includes most tests needed to more deeply explore the possibility of hypothyroidism and/or Hashimoto's disease diagnosis. It includes:

- TSH

- Free T3

-Free T4

-Reverse T3

- Thyroglobulin Antibody

- Thyroid Peroxidase Antibody (Anti-TPO)

Lab Test Collection Instructions

Dietary supplements containing biotin may interfere in assays and may skew results to be either falsely high or falsely low. For patients receiving the recommended daily doses of biotin, draw samples at least 8 hours following the last biotin supplementation. For patients on mega-doses of biotin supplements, draw samples at least 72 hours following the last biotin supplementation. A study found that TSH was suppressed in all subjects after food, so fasting may be suggested although it is not reqired by Quest. Free T4 and Free T4 values did not change significantly after eating.

Effect of Food on Thyroid Tests

You already know that several types of food can affect the results of various blood tests. For example, you shouldn't eat anything for 12-14 hours before a glucose test because any ingested food can increase blood sugar levels and cause an inaccurate diagnosis. Similarly, there are certain rules that you must respect before doing thyroid tests to avoid getting the wrong results.

The thyroid gland is located at the base of your neck and it's responsible for many functions such as stimulating energy production, managing body metabolism, and more. Thyroid tests are necessary to diagnose or monitor a wide variety of diseases. Keep reading to learn more about food and other factors on thyroid tests.

How Food Affects Thyroid Tests

It's important to remember that all the hormones and chemicals in your body are constantly changing. For example, your testosterone levels are at their peak in the morning, and they begin to decline in the afternoon. Similarly, your main thyroid hormones, such as TSH, T4, and T3, are secreted in various quantities at different moments of the day.

If you're ingesting food or any beverages except water, this will impact how thyroid hormones and other hormones in the body are secreted. This is not a good thing because if you do a test in this state, your results might appear incorrect, and you might receive a false diagnosis.

Think about this as if you're the witness of a car accident. If the accident was quite serious, the evidence must be kept in its original state because this is how the authorities will figure out who is the guilty driver. If someone alters the evidence (in our case influences the production of thyroid hormones), the conclusion (diagnosis) of the accident can be misinterpreted.

Finally, you need to know that fasting and postprandial states can affect thyroid hormone results. Fasting refers to not eating anything for 8, 10, or even 12 hours before doing a test—postprandial means doing a test soon after ingesting food. For example, if you do a thyroid test early in the morning in a fasting state, your TSH levels might be higher. This can influence how your subclinical hypothyroidism might be interpreted, as this health problem can be diagnosed solely on TSH levels.

Study on the Effects of Different Nutrients on Thyroid Hormones for Healthy Individuals

Another study performed in 2021 on more than 4,500 individuals shows interesting correlations between different types of foods and their effect on free T3, free T4, and TSH levels. The study participants were from the southern regions of Croatia, and they were split into different groups depending on their health status, gender, lifestyle habits, and more.

More than 58 food items were included in the diet administered to study participants during the testing period. The study results showed that women usually had lower free T3 and free T4 and higher TSH levels than men. At the same time, smokers had lower TSH levels than people who didn't smoke or were ex-smokers.

At the end of the study, researchers concluded that those who consumed a lot of foods with a high glycemic index had a positive association with free T3 and T4 levels while negatively associated with TSH levels. At the same time, foods high in protein or saturated fatty acids showed a negative correlation with free T3 and T4 levels. Another interesting result shows that those with a higher fasting glucose level usually had higher free T4 levels.

Study on the Effects of Food on Thyroid Levels

A study done in 2014 looked at 57 adult patients who had their thyroid hormones measured in a laboratory environment. These patients were split into several groups. The first group had normal T4 and TSH, the second group had increased TSH and normal T4 (subclinical hypothyroidism), and the third group had low T4 and high TSH.

The testing was done in a fasting state two hours after eating a meal. Food choice is not important in this case, as any food can influence thyroid hormones.

The results were impressive. TSH levels were suppressed in all patients after ingesting food regardless of how long they fasted before. T4 levels didn't change enough to make a difference in patients. After the tests were done, almost 75% of the patients could be diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism based on the tests done in a fasting state alone. The TSH levels were otherwise within normal ranges in the postprandial tests.

This is an important finding as the time of the day when the test is done, and the fasting/postprandial state can significantly influence a diagnosis of subclinical hypothyroidism, especially for pregnant women.

Other Factors That Could Influence Thyroid Hormone Levels

On top of eating or drinking before a thyroid test, other factors could influence the levels of thyroid hormones. For example, excessive stress can take a toll on your body and cause your hormones to go out of whack, including your thyroid hormones. Although more research is needed to determine how stress can affect you, it's safe to assume that you might not want to take a thyroid test if you're going through a very stressful period.

If a doctor recommends a thyroid test for you, make sure that you're getting enough sleep and normally eat for a few days to get an accurate test result. Sleep deprivation is another factor that could influence the results of your thyroid hormones, especially if you haven't slept at all in 24 hours or more. Dieting to lose weight is known to influence hormonal changes in your body, so you might not want to do a thyroid test if you're sleep deprived or dieting.

Medications Effect on Thyroid Tests

You shouldn't be surprised to find out that different types of drugs can significantly influence the secretion of various thyroid hormones and alter test results. For example, iodine and kelp supplements, Pacerone, chemotherapy drugs, and Lithobid can influence how your thyroid gland produces hormones. You likely need to discontinue these drugs for a few days before doing a thyroid test, but you should only do this at a doctor's recommendation.

Other drugs that could interfere with your thyroid hormone levels include Tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immunomodulating drugs such as Interleukin-2. If you're thinking of doing a thyroid test soon and you take some of these medications, talk with your doctor and see if you have the green light or if you need to adjust/stop your treatment before doing the test.

Effect of Pregnancy on Thyroid Tests

Another thing that could significantly influence thyroid hormones and test results consist of pregnancy. According to the American Thyroid Association, thyroid hormones such as TSH, T3, and T4 vary depending on the pregnancy semester. Doctors should consider this when interpreting thyroid test results for pregnant women.

Effect of Different Types of Diseases on Thyroid Blood Tests

When the body is not well, its hormone production can be drastically affected. Different types of illnesses and diseases can significantly influence thyroid hormone levels and test results. For example, various viral infections and autoimmune disorders such as lupus and Hashimoto's disease can alter your body's levels of thyroid hormones. Make sure that you tell your doctor your medical history and any condition you might have before doing a thyroid test.

What Are the Different Types of Thyroid Tests Available?

You might be happy to find out that there are multiple types of thyroid tests you can do to determine if your thyroid gland is functioning correctly. You can take advantage of individual tests such as the ones that measure your TSH, T3, or T4. However, doctors recommend going for a test panel that incorporates multiple hormones because this provides a clearer picture when it comes to the health of your thyroid gland.

For example, one of the most popular panels checks your TSH, free T3, and free T4 in a single test. It's more affordable and efficient to test your thyroid gland in this manner. Other tests include thyroxine-binding globulin test, comprehensive thyroid panel, which also includes thyroid peroxidase antibody among the other hormones, and reverse T3 test. Ask your doctor for advice if you don't know what type of test is more suitable for you to determine the health of your thyroid gland.

Take Charge- Order Your Thyroid Tests Today!

As you can see, several types of factors can affect the results of your thyroid tests, mainly doing a test in a fasted or postprandial state. With that being said, it's highly recommended that you do thyroid tests regularly to see how your thyroid hormones are working in your body. Follow your doctor's recommendations and pick the right thyroid test for your needs.

For a comprehensive list of thyroid tests at affordable prices, visit Discountedlabs.com today!

References:

https://www.verywellhealth.com/optimum-time-and-conditions-for-thyroid-blood-tests-3232911

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4171896/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34303955/

More information about thyroid tests: Thyroid Lab Tests Types and Controversies

$264.53

TRT + hCG Lab Test Panel

$140.00

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This panel includes:

Testosterone, Total, LC/MS and Free (Equilibrium Dialysis)

This panel includes total testosterone measured by the most accurate method (liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry), free testosterone percent by equilibrium dialysis, and free testosterone calculated from percent free T. This test is good for men who expect high testosterone blood levels over 1,500 ng/dL or women who expect low T levels.

and

17 - OH Progesterone

The 17-OH Progesterone Test and Fertility

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) shuts down upstream hormones like LH and FSH required for sperm production, so men on TRT generally have a difficult time to father a child. Some studies show that adding human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to a TRT protocol may improve sperm production since hCG is an analog of LH that could stimulate sperm production. But optimizing hCG dose and frequency based on sperm count can be a time consuming process since it takes at least 8 weeks to see changes in sperm tests. Fortunately, there is an easier way to predict the efficacy of the hCG+TRT protocol without having to wait for 8 weeks between hCG dose/frequency changes.

To find out if sperm count is normalized in men using hCG plus TRT, several studies have found that the 17-OH-Progesterone blood level is correlated to intratesticular testosterone (ITT) required for the testicles to make sperm, so testing for this hormone could not only save time while optimizing HCG dose/frequency but also eliminate the need to perform testicular aspirations, a very difficult procedure to do. Sperm count does not stabilize until 8 weeks after starting hCG plus TRT, so knowing your 17-OH-progesterone blood level can give you a quick way to determine if your hCG dose and frequency is adequate.

This test uses liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) the most accurate method for hormone testing.

For more information read: HCG Use in Men on Testosterone: How to Determine the Right Dose

$140.00

TRT Basic Monitoring Panel

$120.57

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TRT MALE Hormone/Wellness Follow Up Panel

$253.46

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This panel includes main blood test variables monitored by many clinics that treat men with low testosterone. This panel is for men who are already on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and who want to monitor their main blood tests. You save substantial amounts of money by ordering these tests together rather than one at a time.

The panel includes:

- Testosterone, Free, Equilibrium Ultrafiltration With Total Testosterone, LC/MS

- Sex hormone binding globulin

- Estradiol (Ultra sensitive- LC/MS assay)

- CBC (includes glucose, hematocrit, and immune cells)

- CMP (includes liver and kidney function, eGFR)

- Lipids (LDL and HDL cholesterol and triglycerides) FASTING REQUIRED

You can add DHT, DHEA, TSH, Free T3, free T4 and Prolactin for a more comprehensive picture of your hormonal health.

An Introduction into TRT Male Hormone & Wellness Panel

This comprehensive and complex panel is designed especially for men undergoing testosterone therapy replacement to assess the progress of the medication recommended.

This panel is one of the most cost-effective and exhaustive choices, it comprises tests like

Testosterone, Free, Equilibrium Ultrafiltration With Total Testosterone, LC/MS
Ultra Sensitive Estradiol
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)
CBC (glucose, hematocrit, and immune cells)
CMP-tests to evaluate liver and kidney function, eGFR
Lipids check up-LDL and HDL cholesterol and triglycerides

All these get run together through this panel will save lots of time and money and overall bring the most value for your health.

Testosterone, Free, Equilibrium Ultrafiltration With Total Testosterone, LC/MS

Testosterone is the primary male hormone, helping in developing all the masculine features, it is mainly produced in testicles.

For women, testosterone is not a definitory hormone even though they are producing it as well in ovaries. Some women though may have higher levels which may create several undesired consequences in the long run.

This test package is a complex and powerful form of information for men, especially for the ones who happen to suffer from thyroid disorders, obesity, or cirrhosis.

The result of the tests may show how the binding proteins of the testosterone are disrupted and also evaluate the testicular condition.

Testosterone tests are mainly ordered for men who either use the testosterone substitution therapy already and want to keep up with the progress or for men who experience symptoms like infertility, decrease in muscle mass, impotence, loss of libido.

For women, it is also a helpful test if symptoms like hair loss, irregular menstruations, excessive body and facial hair, and infertility appear. If testosterone levels are higher than normal, this may indicate conditions like virilization or hirsutism.

Usually, the total testosterone is linked to the SHBG hormone and a smaller fraction to the albumin. Free testosterone is found in very low concentrations throughout the body, it is the part left unlinked to SHBG proteins or albumin.

Usual testosterone tests are not specific enough when it comes to identifying the free testosterone levels. Hence, it is used a procedure called equilibrium ultrafiltration

Equilibrium ultrafiltration is achieved through adding tritiated testosterone in the sample analyzed and going through a process of stabilization.

After this stabilization, the free testosterone from the sample is separated through centrifugal ultrafiltration. The percentage of free testosterone from the sample is then used to calculate the free testosterone

The Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)

The sex hormone-binding globulin is a very important protein for both men and women. It is known to have a powerful link to three hormones: testosterone, estradiol, and dihydrotestosterone.

This protein is produced by the liver and carries with it these hormones throughout the body and distributes them in their place.

Testosterone is the most important hormone associated with this protein and this is why they are commonly tested together. Usually, the test is ordered when men and women have abnormal levels.

High SHBG can lower free testosterone. Read about how to lower SHBG.

Ultra Sensitive Estradiol LC/MS Assay

Estradiol is the most biologically active of all estrogens. It plays a very important role in increasing the volume of the endometrium, the vagina, and the mammary glands.

Estradiol is produced in the ovaries, testicles, and cortex of the adrenal glands. More than 95% of estradiol is bound to SHBG, the sex hormone-binding globulin.

Estradiol contributes to bone health, body distribution, sex drive, and cognitive function.

In men, estradiol is produced by the testicles and adrenal glands.

To evaluate correctly the estradiol levels, liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) technology. The old method of measuring estradiol using immunoassays may overestimate estradiol in men. Also, this technology has a higher sensitivity and a broad range which helps diagnose correctly and evaluate conditions like gynecomastia in men or bone loss density.

Emerging data shows that the testosterone-to-estradiol ratio may be better correlated to libido and fertility in men.

What Does a CBC Panel Contain?

The CBC provides important information about the hematologic system and other organ systems. The blood count consists of the automatic measurement of the following parameters:

Glucose
Hematocrit
Immune cells -phagocytes and lymphocytes

Glucose, also known as blood sugar, is one of the fuels of our organisms. Glucose can be extracted from foods, especially carbohydrates like bread, vegetables, fruits and fermented products like dairies.

Right after we ingest carbohydrates, they split into several sugar types among them being glucose which is a monounsaturated one.

Once decomposed, it is absorbed by the small intestine and carried towards cells so it can finally produce energy. Glucose is often associated with the hormone called insulin as the latter secures the glucose in cells.

Your doctor may ask you to do this test to diagnose or monitor diabetes, evaluate cases of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, liver disorders, pancreatic cancer, or evaluate an excess of weight.

Hematocrit is generally defined as the percentage of erythrocytes in the blood volume, it is one of the important hematological parameters that help diagnose certain diseases.

Hematocrit measures the volume of red blood cells compared to the total volume of blood (ie red blood cells and plasma).

The normal value of hematocrit in men is between 40 and 54%. For women, the value is between 36 and 48% (sometimes between 37% and 47%). This value can be determined directly by centrifugation of the hematocrit or it can be calculated indirectly.

The hematocrit test is part of the complete blood count. It measures the proportion of erythrocytes in a patient's blood and can help the doctor diagnose or monitor the patient's response to treatment.

High values of HT may arise in case of dehydration, heart disorders, poisoning with carbon monoxide or testosterone use. On the contrary, low levels may indicate thyroid dysfunction, vitamin deficiencies, hemorrhage.

Immune cells are also known as white blood cells and even if they are found in small quantities in the body, their role is massive. Leukocytes, as they are also called, are stored in the lymph system, more precisely in the thymus, bone marrow, lymph nodes, and spleen. They are protecting the organism from viruses and bacteria.

The leukocytes are categorized in two main ways according to their role

Phagocytes (neutrophils, macrophages, monocytes, and mast cells)
Lymphocytes (B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes)

The main role of phagocytes is to help in the healing process, put a shield against bacteria, contribute to the renewal of the skin, defend the body against different pathogens while lymphocytes have a memorizing role.

They retain information from previous attacks and prepare for a comeback by producing antibodies and destroying cells that cannot recover.

The immune system is our ally in the battle with different viruses, bacteria, or pathogens. Keeping these little fighters healthy can keep us away from many conditions.

Your doctor may recommend this test to assess your overall health and diagnose disorders like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus.

What does a CMP Contain?

This panel is a very complex one and may indicate a series of irregularities mostly related to the kidney and liver. It measures their performance alongside glucose levels, electrolytes ,and fluids.

All these are essential for our body, each having its specific role in creating an equilibrium in our organism.

This panel may be ordered by your practitioner as a yearly routine or as a method to clarify certain suspicions related to diabetes, hypertension, etc.

The panel comprises 14 elements to be analyzed:

Albumin
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
Calcium
Carbon Dioxide (Bicarbonate)
Chloride
Creatinine
Glucose
Potassium
Sodium
Total Bilirubin
Total Protein

What does a Lipid Profile Include?

This package includes the necessary analysis to draw a lipid profile and evaluate risks for cardiovascular disease.

Fasting is required to perform these tests so the results can be more accurate, the time needed for fasting is usually determined by your practitioner but usually, 12h before the test is enough.

LDL stands for low-density lipoproteins, this is also known as bad cholesterol because they may clog your arterial walls with an extra deposit of cholesterol causing atherosclerosis. This happens as the blood flow cannot get through the arteries. Being untreated may lead to serious health issues like a stroke, heart attack, or worst case scenario death.

HDL stands for density lipoproteins which, contrary to LDL, is known as the good cholesterol. The HDL travels through the body until it gets to the liver where it starts to be eliminated.

Triglycerides are fats (lipids) that move in the blood and can be stored in the tissues of the body. If you have to do anything about triglycerides, it depends on how big they are.

When you consume more calories than you need, the body forms triglycerides and stores them in fat cells.

This type of lipid can be metabolized later to create energy. High-fat foods increase triglycerides, but sugar and alcohol have an even stronger effect. Elevated levels may lead to a risk of heart disease and stroke.

Order Your TRT Panel Now

If you are looking for a comprehensive panel that includes some of the most important tests when it comes to TRT and you also want to save time and money, this may be your best guess.

To this panel, there are some other valuable, more specific tests that you can add for a more complex panel. These are: DHT, DHEA, TSH, Free T3, free T4, and Prolactin. For this and more hormone-related panels, go access DiscountedLabs.com and choose what is best for you at a fair price.

Here are two other panels that include additional tests:

Elite Male Blood Test Panel

Comprehensive Male Hormone Panel II

IMPORTANT: Discounted Labs only serves these states: Find a Location

HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?

1- Go to the "Find a Location" page to find the closest lab location.

2- Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart.

3- If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart.

4- Pay using a credit card.

5- You will receive an order confirmation and a lab request emails within business hours.

6- Print lab request form attached to the lab request form email (PDF file).

7- Take that form to the closest lab with a picture ID. Get your blood drawn. No lab fee is required.

9- You will receive an email when the results are ready.

Important Note: You cannot place an order under someone else's profile. The profile person's name will appear on the lab order form. Please create your profile. You are allowed to use someone else's credit card as payment.

FREE BONUS: EBook: Beyond Testosterone

Suggested Reading: Testosterone Replacement Blood Test Targets

$253.46

Ultimate Lab Test Panel for Men and Women

$588.00

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This ultimate lab test panel offers the best savings for men and women to determine their immune health, liver and kidney function, electrolytes, blood sugar, cholesterol, thyroid function, inflammatory markers involved in heart disease, testosterone total and free, urinalysis to determine UTIs and kidney function, estradiol, DHEA-S, vitamins D and B12, and iron/ferritin to determine anemia or increased risk of iron overload.

Tests included are:

1. Complete Blood Count with differential

White blood cell count (WBC or Leukocyte count)
Red blood cell count (RBC or erythrocyte count)
Hematocrit (Hct)
Hemoglobin (Hbg)
Mean corpuscular volume (MCV)
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH)
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC)
Red cell distribution width (RDW)
Platelet count
Mean platelet volume (MPV)

2. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

Glucose
Kidney Function:

Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
Creatinine
BUN/Creatinine Ratio
eGFR

Sodium
Potassium
Chloride
Carbon Dioxide
Calcium
Albumin
Globulin
Total Protein
Liver Function:

Alkaline Phosphatase
Bilirubin.
AST
ALT

3. Lipid Panel. FASTING REQUIRED

Total Cholesterol
HDL Cholesterol
LDL Cholesterol
Triglycerides

4. TSH

5. Thyroid Free T3

6. Thyroid Free T4

7. Homocysteine

8. Testosterone Total & Free (LC/MS- No upper limit)

9. Urinalysis, Complete

Color
Appearance
Specific gravity
pH
Protein
Glucose
Occult blood
Ketones
Leukocyte esterase
Nitrite
Bilirubin
Urobilinogen
Microscopic examination of urine sediment

10. Vitamin D ( 25OHD )

11. Iron & TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity)

12. Estradiol, Sensitive

13. DHEA – S

14. Vitamin B-12

15. Hemoglobin A1c

16. Cardio C-Reactive Protein

17. Ferritin

More details on this panel

IMPORTANT: Discounted Labs only serves these states: Find a Location

DiscountedLabs.com offers affordable blood tests you can order online in the United Sates without the need of a doctor's order. We have no hidden fees and have an easy ordering process.

HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?

Go to the "Find a Location" page to find the closest lab location. No need to make an appointment since walk-ins are welcomed. Once you have identified your closest location, go to step 2.
Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart. If you prefer to save money on bundled tests, we have created "Lab Test Panels" that can help you decide what to order.
If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart.
A $8 lab processing fee will be added to your total.
Pay using a credit card.
You will receive an order confirmation and instructions email on how to download your lab request.
Print lab request form that you downloaded.
Take that form to the closest Quest Diagnostics location with a picture ID. Get your blood drawn.
You will receive an email when the results are ready for you to download.
Note: You cannot place an order under someone else's profile. The profile person's name will appear on the lab order form.
If you have questions, please review our FAQ Page.

If you have further questions, please email [email protected].

$588.00

Urinalysis

$37.03

The Urinalysis test screens for a variety of conditions including urinary tract infection (UTI), urinary bladder disease, kidney disease and diabetes. Many systemic illnesses can affect results and significant deviations from the normal range may require further evaluation by your physician.

Tests Included

Urinalysis, Complete With Microscopic Examination
Color
Appearance
Specific gravity
pH
Protein
Glucose
Occult blood
Ketones
Leukocyte esterase
Nitrite
Bilirubin
Urobilinogen
Microscopic examination of urine sediment

Limitations: Insufficient volume may limit the extent of procedures performed. Metabolites of Pyridium® may interfere with the dipstick reactions by producing color interference. High vitamin C intake may cause an underestimate of glucosuria or a false-negative nitrite test.

Urinalysis - Everything You Want to Know

One of the most efficient analyses with zero medical intrusion is called urinalysis, also called urine test. It is used to examine substances from the urine at a chemical, microscopic or visual level.

Usually, healthcare providers request a urinalysis because of its complex assessment. Depending on the symptoms you may encounter, the doctor will decide what indicators to be examined.

Usually, this test is performed when the patient presents symptoms associated with a urinary infection, the urinary system, or liver disorders.

What is the Urinary System Function?

The urinary system has multiple functions besides removing waste produced by kidneys in the form of urine. It also balances the body's fluids and electrolytes and releases hormones that control blood pressure and red blood cell production. Another less known function is to maintain the calcium and phosphorus levels that translate into healthy bones.

As the renal system (urinary system) is vulnerable in the face of multiple infections, some leading to kidney blockage, it is essential to remove waste when the body feels like it. Do not hold pee for too long, stay hydrated, have a meticulous hygiene routine, and take a urine test at least once a year.

What are the Symptoms that Indicate You Need a Urinalysis?

It is recommended to follow a urine test when you have one or many of these symptoms:

Abdominal pain
Back pain (in the kidney area)
Pain/burning while urinating
Frequent urination
Blood in the urine (the urine turns pink-red)
Dark urine for prolonged periods, even if hydrated
Urinary incontinence

Other situations when the urinalysis is requested:

Routine medical examination
When monitoring the progress of a treatment
At the admission to a hospital
Before the surgery takes place

What are the Tests Included in Urinalysis?

Urinalysis comprises a large number of tests, each one being valuable for the identification of certain disorders. Generally, your doctor will want to check three aspects of your urine, color and appearance, chemical, and microscopic findings.

Chemical tests - this is performed under the dipsticks procedure using test strips introduced in the urine sample and color according to the substances encountered.

Protein - in the urine test, proteins such as albumin are examined to determine disorders such as kidney disorders, dehydration, or heart failure. Lower protein values in the urine are not a concern, while higher values may indicate a kidney disorder.

PH - The PH indicated the levels of acidity in the urine. High PH levels can be a sign of kidney disorders or tract infections. On the other side, low PH levels signify diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, or diarrhea.

Ketones - ketone is a product of your body when breaking down fatty acids and fats for energy. This process happens when you are not consuming enough carbohydrates or glucose. Ketones are also checked when there is a suspicion of diabetes-related ketoacidosis.

Glucose - Glucose is often examined in the blood. If glucose is found in the urine, this may be a sign of diabetes.

Bilirubin - this is a yellow pigment produced by the liver, found in the bile. Abnormal values for this indicator may indicate a liver disorder.

Nitrite - a positive test for nitrite indicates a urinary tract infection. Nitrite should not be confused with nitrate, a product from bacteria found in urine. There are cases when the nitrite test turns negative while having a urinary infection. This is why it is best to have other indicators examined simultaneously.

Leukocyte esterase urine - an enzyme found in the white blood cells. If the test turns positive, then this is an indication of inflammation in the urinary system.

Urine specific gravity - this test will evaluate the concentration of all the chemical elements from the urine. Abnormal values are associated with many different health disorders, and doctors should consider this alongside other tests.

Microscopic examination

Urinalysis-microscopic examination: This exam can identify substances that cannot be seen with a bare eye. The elements looked for at the microscope are:

Red blood cells (erythrocytes) - Elevated levels of RBC may indicate kidney disorders, blood problems, or urinary system cancer.

White blood cells (leukocyte) - a high number of these cells indicate an active infection

Bacteria/ Parasites - indicates infection of the urinary tract.

Crystals - an indication of kidney stones

Epithelial cells - while this may indicate tumors in case of abnormal values, it may also happen that the sample was contaminated, and the test should be redone.

Tube shaped proteins - this may appear in case of kidney disorder/modification

Occult blood - blood found in urine may indicate more issues; it may be a sign of kidney disorder, infections, cancers, or coagulation problems. For this indicator, various analyses are needed to identify the problem.

Urobilinogen - urobilinogen or urine is a product of erythrocytes processing. This indicator has higher levels in case of hemolytic jaundice or other intestinal disorders.

Microscopic examination of urine sediment - Your healthcare provider may ask you to perform a test for the urine sediment as well to determine whether small, undetected elements may be present in the urine, such as:

Casts
Cells
Cell fragments
Mucus
Crystals
Bacteria/germs

Color & Appearance

Many aspects can affect the urine color, either due to food and medication or a particular disorder. Colors are significant indicators, especially before taking a blood/urine test.

Transparent - If the urine is clear, this may mean that you consume enough water. If cloudy, it may be indicative of presence of compounds or cells.

Light yellow - Your urine is normal, your body is adequately hydrated, and your kidneys are functioning well

Dark yellow - Still normal. It would help if you stayed more hydrated, so make sure that you drink more water whenever you can

Honey yellow - You don't drink enough water for the body to work correctly.

Orange - When the urine turns orange, it is still possible that dehydration may be the cause. If the color persists, further should be done to evaluate whether a hepatic disorder or urinary bladder issues may be present.

Brown - This may be an indication of hepatic disease or severe dehydration.

Pink or Red - Usually, when urine turns pink or red, this may mean that blood is present. The red color may also appear after eating certain foods with intense red pigment. If a doctor confirms this, further tests should be performed to evaluate possibilities for hepatic disorders, infections, tumors, or sometimes mercury intoxication.

Blue/Green urine - This is not a common situation. This color may be a sign of a rare genetic disease, or in milder cases, you've ingested a food coloring product or a result of medicine.

Whenever you see abnormal color in your urine, you must note how frequently this happens to identify whether you were consuming products with coloring. Some highly pigmented foods like beet, blueberries, turmeric, and certain medicines and supplements may change the color of your urine.

In terms of appearance, acidity and foaming could be present in the urine. If any of those appear, this may signify a protein excess or kidney disorders.

How to Prepare for the Urinalysis Test?

The first thing to do is to have a clinical evaluation by a doctor. You should follow the instructions of the doctor before collecting as otherwise, the results may be different than expected. After this, your healthcare provider will issue a referral for the analysis to perform.

Menstrual discharge may affect the values of the test. Your healthcare provider may indicate you to give up on certain medication before collecting or to collect first thing in the morning or later in the day. Also if you are a woman, it is important to specify whether you are menstruating or not before the test.

How Can You Interpret the Results of Your Urinalysis Test?

The urinalysis results may provide different interpretations because of the high number of tests. Most times, values out of the normal limit indicate a medical problem. Your healthcare provider may ask you to repeat the tests alongside other blood tests for higher diagnostic accuracy.

Since neither disorder can be fully diagnosed using a urinalysis, this test is often used to show the healthcare provider's direction. The doctors need to get as much information as possible from the patient about symptoms, diet, and medication to follow the correct route.

$37.03

Vitamin and Mineral Panel

$203.89

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Water Retention Panel: Aldosterone/Plasma Renin Activity Ratio, LC/MS/MS

$143.62

Renin is also called angiotensinogenase; it’s an enzyme produced by the kidneys to control aldosterone production. It’s also essential in the renin–angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) which maintains your body’s fluid balance and blood pressure. This system regulates blood plasma volume, lymph and interstitial fluid (the fluid which surrounds the cells in the body) and controls constriction of the arteries and blood vessels.

Three factors stimulate the secretion of renin:

When a drop in arterial blood pressure is detected by pressure-sensitive receptors in the arteries
When a drop in salt level is detected in the kidneys
When activity is detected in the sympathetic nervous system activity

Renin’s primary function is to increase blood pressure to maintain healthy blood flow to the kidneys. It’s secreted by specialized kidney cells that can detect changes in blood pressure through stretch receptors in the vascular walls. Renin starts a chain reaction that makes the hormone called angiotensin, which makes small blood vessels narrower and stimulates the adrenal glands to secrete aldosterone. Aldosterone signals the kidneys to hold on to fluid and salt. Both can increase blood pressure. When this process is out of balance, blood pressure can rise to dangerous levels.

Hypertension and the renin test

If you experience high blood pressure (hypertension), your doctor needs to find out the reason why to prescribe the correct treatment. A renin test is used to discover what’s happening in the body that may be causing it. The doctor might order this kind of test if high blood pressure starts when you’re young or medication hasn’t kept it under control. Because renin is involved in aldosterone metabolism, an aldosterone test may be conducted at the same time.

Your test results will tell the doctor if your renin levels are high, low, or healthy. Either high or low levels could help explain why your blood pressure is too high.

More on this test and how it affects blood pressure and water retention here

What the renin and ALD test results may mean:

Excess renin with normal aldosterone levels could mean that you’re salt-sensitive
Low renin and excess aldosterone may indicate that your adrenal glands aren’t functioning properly
If both renin and ALD are high, it may be a sign of kidney trouble

Whatever the results are, they will help the doctor decide which drugs or treatments are best to get your blood pressure under control.

$143.62

Women's Elite Hormone and Wellness Panel

$482.78

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This complete lab test panel for women includes tests and panels that can show potential issues with immune function, electrolytes, liver and kidney function, cholesterol, testosterone, estradiol, DHEA, thyroid function, blood sugar control, inflammation, vitamin deficiencies, anemia/fatigue, progesterone, and LH & FSH hormones.

CBC (includes immune and red blood cells and platelets)
CMP (Includes kidney and liver function, glucose and electrolytes)
Lipid Panel (LDL, HDL, and Triglycerides). FASTING REQUIRED
Testosterone free and total (LC/MS)
Estradiol (ECLIA)
DHEA-sulfate
TSH
FREE T3
FREE T4
a1C
C REACTIVE PROTEIN
HOMOCYSTEINE
VITAMIN D
VITAMIN B12
FERRITIN, iron
Progesterone
LH and FSH

DiscountedLabs.com offers affordable blood tests you can order online in the United Sates without the need of a doctor's order. We have no hidden fees and have an easy ordering process.

IMPORTANT: Discounted Labs only serves these states: Find a Location

HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?

Go to the "Find a Location" page to find the closest lab location. No need to make an appointment since walk-ins are welcomed. Once you have identified your closest location, go to step 2.
Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart. If you prefer to save money on bundled tests, we have created "Lab Test Panels" that can help you decide what to order.
If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart.
A $8 lab processing fee will be added to your total.
Pay using a credit card.
You will receive an order confirmation and email with your lab request during business hours.
Print lab request form that you downloaded.
Take that form to the closest Quest Diagnostics location with a picture ID. Get your blood drawn.
You will receive an email when the results are ready for you to download.
Note: You cannot place an order under someone else's profile. The profile person's name will appear on the lab order form.
If you have questions, please review our FAQ Page.

If you have further questions, please email [email protected].

$482.78

Women's Hormone & Wellness Panel

$267.54

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This panel will provide a baseline overview of your sex hormones, thyroid gland, adrenal function, metabolic function, and overall health. Includes:

CBC (includes immune and red blood cells and platelets)
CMP (Includes kidney and liver function, glucose and electrolytes)
Lipid Panel (LDL, HDL, and Triglycerides). FASTING REQUIRED
Testosterone free and total (LC/MS, equilibrium ultrafiltration)
Estradiol (Regular, ECLIA)
DHEA-sulfate
TSH- Thyroid Stimulating Hormone
Progesterone
LH and FSH

NOTE: If you are taking biotin, please stop it 72 hours before the blood draw since it may interfere with hormone blood tests.

Join our Women's Health and HRT Facebook Group

IMPORTANT: Discounted Labs only serves these states: Find a Location

Please read the following frequently asked questions before placing an order: FAQs

DiscountedLabs.com offers affordable blood tests you can order online in the United Sates without the need of a doctor's order. We have no hidden fees and have an easy ordering process.

HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?

Go to the "Find a Location" page to find the closest lab location. No need to make an appointment since walk-ins are welcomed. Once you have identified your closest location, go to step 2.
Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart. If you prefer to save money on bundled tests, we have created "Lab Test Panels" that can help you decide what to order.
If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart.
A $8 lab processing fee will be added to your total.
Pay using a credit card.
You will receive an order confirmation and instructions email with your lab request.
Print lab request form that you downloaded.
Take that form to the closest Quest Diagnostics location with a picture ID. Get your blood drawn.
You will receive an email when the results are ready for you to download.
Note: You cannot place an order under someone else's profile. The profile person's name will appear on the lab order form.
If you have questions, please review our FAQ Page.

If you have further questions, please email [email protected].

$267.54

Women's Hormone Panel

$200.41

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This hormone panel for women contains all basic hormones (except for LH and FSH, which you can add to your cart separately):

DHEA-S Test

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland. It is also made in the brain. DHEA leads to the production of androgens and estrogens (male and female sex hormones). DHEA levels in the body begin to decrease after age 30. Lower DHEA levels are found in people with hormonal disorders, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, depression, diabetes, inflammation, immune disorders, and osteoporosis. Corticosteroids, birth control taken by mouth, and agents that treat psychiatric disorders may reduce DHEA levels.

Estradiol Test (CLIA assay)

Estradiol is the predominant sex hormone present in females and is also found at lower levels in men. It represents the major estrogen in humans. Estradiol not only impacts reproductive and sexual functioning, but also affects other systems including bone health, heart health, nerves and metabolism. Estradiol, also known as E2, is the most active of all three estrogens commonly measured in a clinical setting. For women, it is important to compare the relationship between estradiol and progesterone in evaluating menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, mood disorders, and aging skin. In men, high levels of estradiol are associated with abdominal fat, enlargement of the prostate and cardiovascular risk. In both men and women, low levels of estradiol are associated with osteoporosis.

Progesterone Test

Total Testosterone, LC/MS
Free Testosterone by Equilibrium Ultrafiltration

TSH Test

The thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is produced and secreted by the pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid to produce T3 and T4. When TSH is elevated, low thyroid function may be indicated. If TSH is low it is indicative of high thyroid function.

Free T3 Test

T3 or triiodothyronine is the active form of the thyroid hormone. T3 acts as a metabolic throttle for fueling all of the daily cellular functions. Free T3 is the unbound portion of T3 that is biologically active.

Free T4 Test

The thyroid gland produces and secretes T4, otherwise known as thyroxine. Proteins bind to T4 and carry it throughout the bloodstream. Once in the tissues, T4 is released from the proteins and is now free to convert into the more active form called T3. For this reason, many doctors believe that measuring free T4 is a more sensitive test for thyroid hormone production.

Pre-menopausal women can add LH + FSH here

Note: If you are taking biotin, please stop it 72 hours before the blood draw since it may interfere with hormone blood tests.

Please ensure that you read the list of states that we serve

HOW DOES DISCOUNTEDLABS.COM WORK?

1- Go to the "Find a Location" page to find the closest Quest location.

2- Go to "Choose a Test" and add your selection (s) in the shopping cart.

3- If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart.

4- Pay using a credit card.

5- You will receive an order confirmation email followed by an email containing an attached lab request form (PDF file- You need PDF Reader)

6- Print lab request form attached to the lab request form email (PDF file).

7- Take that form to the closest lab with a picture ID. Get your blood drawn. No lab fee is required.

8- Your results will available by email within 5-7 business days (depending on the test and not including weekends or holidays).

Join our Women's Health and HRT group on Facebook.

$200.41

Lab Test Panels for Sale

Get affordable lab tests from Discounted Labs! We specialize in reliable lab tests and testing services. You can purchase the best online blood tests for less than you'll pay elsewhere. With our service, no doctors visits are required. Our process is simple: choose the test you want and place your order. Our network includes more than 1,900 test labs that are certified and accredited. Customers can rely on our services to procure the testing information they need to make informed decisions about their health. We have numerous lab test panels for sale now — explore our offerings and place your order online!

At Discounted Labs, you can find lab test panels online for the most affordable rates. We feature lab test panels for sale like blood tests for metabolism or affordable lab tests for women. Armed with your test results from our trusted labs, you can decide what's next in your healthcare plan. Having your test results can enhance your consultations with doctors or specialists. Once you submit your test, we can email your results securely online. Once you have your results, you can schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider if you choose.

Types of Lab Panels

At Discounted Labs, you can peruse our many types of lab panels before selecting the test or tests that are ideal for you. We feature cheap lab test panels, so you don't have to spend a fortune out-of-pocket funds simply to get your lab results. There are no hidden costs when you place an order with us. We provide upfront pricing, so what you see is the cost you pay. Because insurers are not always willing to pay for certain types of lab panels or ongoing blood panel tests, you can rely on us for the health information you need.

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Our lab tests are FDA approved, and our service is HIPAA compliant. Once you find your test, you can use our website to select a lab near you. Don't worry about scheduling an appointment. Simply visit the lab in question and have your test performed. Discounted Labs is changing the way lab tests are conducted by empowering patients to get the medical information they need on demand.

If you need blood panel tests or other lab tests designed for men or women, browse our lab test panels on sale now. We also feature a library of helpful educational videos and blog articles. Use our tools and resources to educate yourself about these test panels and various tests we offer. Additionally, we invite you to be part of our mailing list so you can learn about online coupons and other special incentives. Be sure to compare our pricing with other online testing purchase centers. Contact us today for more information!