AN OVERVIEW
About occult blood test
Why is the occult blood test done?
An occult blood test is done to check for colorectal cancer or any infection in the digestive tract. The blood stains in the stool might not be visible to the naked eye and can only be seen using a microscope. The bleeding is abnormal and requires medical intervention. Regular screening is recommended for everyone above 50 years of age.
What does the occult blood test measure?
The occult blood test detects the presence of blood in the stools. There are two outcomes of the occult blood test:
Two types of occult blood tests are available. You will be advised to go for one depending on your symptoms.
- Guaiac-based test: In this test, you are required to collect three stool samples. A test card of the guaiac plant is placed on the stool sample and any changes in the color of the card are noticed. If it happens, the presence of blood in the stool is indicated.
- Fecal immunochemical Test (F.I.T): An antibody protein is used in this test. The stool sample should be collected in a sterile container and should not get mixed with urine or other fluids. A laboratory will examine the sample.
Risks/side effects of occult blood test
There are no risks associated with an occult blood test. However, it is best to know the below-mentioned points beforehand:
- Your stool sample may contain some harmful bacterias and pathogens.
- Be careful while collecting the stool sample and wash your hands thoroughly before and after the sample collection.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQs
When is occult blood test performed?
If you experience the symptoms mentioned below, you can go for the occult blood test:
- Change in stools colour (black or maroon)
- Low red blood cells levels (anemia)
- Regular low blood pressure
- Constant pain in the abdomen
These may be caused by:
- Anal ulcers
- Stomach ulcers
- Infection in intestine
- Crohns disease
- Polyps
How to prepare for an occult blood test?
You should keep certain guidelines in mind before going for the occult blood test for getting accurate results. You may be advised to follow a diet 48-72 hours before the test.
- Do not consume raw vegetables and fruits like carrots, cauliflower, cucumber, grapefruit, mushrooms, radishes, turnip, vitamin-c enriched foods, etc.
- Do not consume red meat.
- Do not intake any medicine 48 hours before the test. Consult your doctor, if needed.
How is the occult blood test performed?
Three samples of your stool that will be taken on three different days will be required for the occult blood test. You can collect these samples comfortably at your home itself using kits available at your nearest medical shop. Rest, your doctor will inform you about the guidelines that you need to follow.
THINGS TO KNOW AFTER GETTING TESTED
Interpreting the occult blood test results
There are two outcomes of the occult blood test:
Positive: It indicates the presence of blood in the stools. However, it does not confirm that you also have cancer. To know about the causes and location of the bleeding, you will be required to undergo other tests, such as colonoscopy, gastrointestinal endoscopy, etc.
Negative: It indicates the absence of blood in the stools.
Occult Blood Test In Chandigarh
Starts from 250*
An occult blood test is used for detecting blood in stool samples and diagnosing digestive problems. The blood stains might not be visible to the naked eye and can only be seen using a microscope. The presence of blood in the feces can also indicate cancer in the colon or rectum or polyps of the colon. The doctor will also check the source of bleeding and recommend a treatment plan accordingly.
Read further to know more about the occult blood test in Chandigarh, including its price and cost, preparation, side effects, etc.
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