Anion gap blood tests are a type of diagnostic test used to measure the levels of electrolytes in the blood. This test is used to help diagnose a variety of medical conditions, including kidney and liver diseases, metabolic disorders, and electrolyte imbalances. In this article, we will discuss what anion gap means in a blood test, what electrolytes are, the normal pH level of blood, what an anion gap blood test is used for, when you would need an anion gap blood test, who performs an anion gap blood test, how to prepare for an anion gap blood test, what to expect during and after the test, the risks of an anion gap blood test, what the results of an anion gap blood test mean, and when you should know the results of an anion gap blood test.
What Does Anion Gap Mean in a Blood Test?
Anion gap is a measure of the difference between the concentrations of cations (positively charged ions) and anions (negatively charged ions) in the blood. It is calculated by subtracting the concentrations of chloride and bicarbonate ions from the concentrations of sodium and potassium ions.
What Are Electrolytes?
Electrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electric charge. They are essential for many bodily functions, including muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and maintaining the balance of fluids in the body. The most common electrolytes are sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate.
What is the Normal pH Level of Blood?
The normal pH level of blood is 7.35-7.45. This is slightly alkaline, meaning it is slightly more basic than neutral.
What is an Anion Gap Blood Test Used For?
An anion gap blood test is used to measure the levels of electrolytes in the blood. It is used to help diagnose a variety of medical conditions, including kidney and liver diseases, metabolic disorders, and electrolyte imbalances.
When Would I Need an Anion Gap Blood Test?
Your doctor may order an anion gap blood test if you are experiencing symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance, such as fatigue, confusion, muscle weakness, or irregular heartbeat.
Who Performs an Anion Gap Blood Test?
An anion gap blood test is typically performed by a medical professional, such as a doctor, nurse, or lab technician.
How Do I Prepare for an Anion Gap Blood Test?
You should not eat or drink anything for 8-12 hours before the test. You should also avoid taking any medications that may affect the results of the test.
What Should I Expect During My Blood Test?
During the test, a small sample of blood will be taken from a vein in your arm. The sample will then be sent to a lab for analysis.
What Should I Expect After My Anion Gap Blood Test?
After the test, you may experience some minor bruising or soreness at the site of the blood draw. This should resolve within a few days.
What Are the Risks of an Anion Gap Blood Test?
The risks of an anion gap blood test are minimal. The most common risk is minor bruising or soreness at the site of the blood draw.
What Do the Results of an Anion Gap Blood Test Mean?
The results of an anion gap blood test will indicate the levels of electrolytes in the blood. A normal anion gap blood test result is between 8-12 mEq/L. A high anion gap blood test result may indicate a metabolic acidosis, while a low anion gap blood test result may indicate a metabolic alkalosis.
Should I Be Concerned if I Have a Low or High Anion Gap Blood Test Result?
If you have a low or high anion gap blood test result, you should discuss the results with your doctor. Your doctor may recommend further testing or treatment depending on the results.
When Should I Know the Results of an Anion Gap Blood Test?
The results of an anion gap blood test are typically available within a few days. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and recommend any necessary follow-up tests or treatments.
References
- Mayo Clinic. (2020). Anion gap. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/anion-gap/about/pac-20384717
- Lab Tests Online. (2020). Anion gap. Retrieved from https://labtestsonline.org/tests/anion-gap
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). Anion gap. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003490.htm
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). Electrolytes. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002350.htm
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). pH. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002222.htm
Keywords: anion gap, blood test, electrolytes, pH level, normal result, high result, low result