Tag: Screening

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Everything You Need to Know About AST Blood Tests

Aspartate transferase (AST) is an enzyme found in the liver, heart, and other organs. An AST blood test measures the amount of AST in the blood. It is used to detect liver damage or disease, as well as to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for certain conditions.

How is aspartate transferase (AST) different from alanine transferase (ALT)?

AST and ALT are both enzymes found in the liver, but they have different functions. AST is found in the heart, liver, and other organs, while ALT is found mainly in the liver. AST is released into the bloodstream when the liver is damaged, while ALT is released when the liver is inflamed.

Why do I need an AST blood test?

An AST blood test is used to detect liver damage or disease, as well as to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for certain conditions. It can also be used to screen for certain types of cancer, such as liver cancer. It can also be used to monitor the progress of certain treatments, such as chemotherapy.

Who performs an AST blood test?

An AST blood test is usually performed by a doctor or a medical technician. The test is usually done in a laboratory or doctor’s office.

Do I need to fast for an AST blood test?

No, you do not need to fast for an AST blood test. However, it is important to tell your doctor if you have recently taken any medications or supplements that could affect the results of the test.

Do I need to do anything to prepare for an AST blood test?

No, you do not need to do anything to prepare for an AST blood test. However, it is important to tell your doctor if you have recently taken any medications or supplements that could affect the results of the test.

What should I expect during my AST blood test?

During an AST blood test, a small sample of blood will be taken from a vein in your arm. The sample will then be sent to a laboratory for analysis.

What should I expect after my AST blood test?

After an AST blood test, you may experience some minor bruising or discomfort at the site where the blood was taken. This should go away within a few days.

What are the risks of an AST blood test?

The risks of an AST blood test are minimal. The most common risk is bruising or discomfort at the site where the blood was taken. Rarely, an infection may occur at the site.

When can I expect the results of my AST blood test?

The results of an AST blood test are usually available within a few days. Your doctor will discuss the results with you.

What do the results of an AST blood test mean?

The results of an AST blood test can indicate whether or not there is liver damage or disease. The results can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for certain conditions.

What is the normal range for an AST blood test?

The normal range for an AST blood test is typically between 10 and 40 units per liter (U/L). However, this range may vary depending on the laboratory.

What does it mean if my AST level is high?

If your AST level is high, it may indicate that there is liver damage or disease. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and may recommend further testing.

Should I be worried if I have a high AST test result?

If your AST level is high, it may indicate that there is liver damage or disease. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and may recommend further testing.

Do I need follow-up tests if my AST results are abnormal?

If your AST results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend further testing to determine the cause. This may include additional blood tests, imaging tests, or a biopsy.

When should I call my doctor?

You should call your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your AST results. You should also call your doctor if you experience any symptoms of liver damage or disease, such as jaundice, abdominal pain, or fatigue.

References

  • Mayo Clinic. (2020). Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) test. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ast-test/about/pac-20384717
  • Lab Tests Online. (2020). Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) test. Retrieved from https://labtestsonline.org/tests/aspartate-aminotransferase-ast
  • U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). AST (aspartate aminotransferase) test. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003476.htm
  • American Liver Foundation. (2020). AST (aspartate aminotransferase) test. Retrieved from https://liverfoundation.org/for-patients/about-the-liver/tests/ast-aspartate-aminotransferase-test/
  • Cleveland Clinic. (2020). AST (aspartate aminotransferase) test. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/17072-ast-aspartate-aminotransferase-test

Keywords: AST, Aspartate Transferase, AST Blood Test, ALT, Alanine Transferase, Liver Damage, Liver Disease, Liver Cancer, Screening, Monitoring, Diagnosing

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Everything You Need to Know About ADHD Screening

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is important to understand the basics of ADHD screening and how it can help diagnose and treat the condition.

What is ADHD screening?

ADHD screening is a process used to identify individuals who may have ADHD. It involves a series of questions and tests that are designed to assess a person’s attention, concentration, and behavior.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It is most commonly diagnosed in children, but it can also affect adults.

When is an ADHD evaluation performed?

An ADHD evaluation is typically performed when a person is suspected of having the condition. It is usually done by a doctor or mental health professional.

How can I get my child screened for ADHD?

If you suspect that your child may have ADHD, you should speak to your doctor or a mental health professional. They will be able to provide you with information about the screening process and help you find a qualified professional to perform the evaluation.

Is ADHD screening only for children?

No, ADHD screening can be done for both children and adults.

Who performs an ADHD evaluation?

An ADHD evaluation is typically performed by a doctor or mental health professional. They will be able to assess the individual’s symptoms and determine if they meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD.

How does the ADHD screening work?

The screening process typically involves a series of questions and tests that are designed to assess a person’s attention, concentration, and behavior. The results of the screening will help the doctor or mental health professional determine if the individual has ADHD.

What are examples of ADHD screening questions?

Examples of ADHD screening questions include: Do you have difficulty paying attention? Do you have difficulty staying focused on tasks? Do you have difficulty controlling your impulses?

What other conditions can cause ADHD symptoms?

Other conditions that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD include anxiety, depression, and learning disabilities.

Is every ADHD screening the same?

No, different doctors and mental health professionals may use different screening methods.

How long does an ADHD evaluation take?

An ADHD evaluation typically takes between one and two hours.

How do I prepare for an ADHD screening?

Before the screening, it is important to make sure that you have all of the necessary information about the individual’s medical history and any medications they are taking. It is also important to be prepared to answer questions about the individual’s behavior and symptoms.

What should I expect during the ADHD screening?

During the screening, the doctor or mental health professional will ask questions about the individual’s behavior and symptoms. They may also ask the individual to complete certain tasks or tests.

What should I expect after the test?

After the screening, the doctor or mental health professional will discuss the results with you and provide you with information about the next steps.

What are the risks of ADHD screening?

The risks of ADHD screening are minimal. The screening process is designed to be safe and non-invasive.

Can I take an ADHD screening test online?

No, ADHD screening tests should only be taken in person with a qualified professional.

What type of results do you get from an ADHD screening?

The results of an ADHD screening will help the doctor or mental health professional determine if the individual has ADHD.

When should I know the results of the ADHD screening?

The results of the screening should be available within a few days.

References:

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/index.html

3. National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/index.shtml

4. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350889

5. American Academy of Pediatrics. (2020). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Retrieved from https://www.aap.org/en-us/conditions-and-treatments/adhd/Pages/default.aspx

Keywords: ADHD, screening, evaluation, symptoms, diagnosis, children, adults