10 Different Types of Blood Tests

If you’ve gone to your doctor for a wellness check recently, he or she probably recommended that you get routine blood work done. Routine blood screenings can help your doctor detect many life-changing or life-threatening diseases early such as diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease and even some cancers. But did you know there are 10 different blood tests, and they all measure different things?If you’re simply curious about blood tests or recently had one done but aren’t sure what it means, we’re breaking down the 10 most common blood tests to help bring some clarity.Types of Blood TestsBasic Metabolic Panel (BMP)A BMP requires you to fast for at least eight hours before your blood is drawn and checks for levels of certain compounds in the blood, like:Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)CalciumCarbon dioxideChlorideCreatinineElectrolytesGlucosePotassiumSodiumAbnormal levels may indicate diabetes, hormone imbalances or kidney disease. Follow-up tests may be necessary to diagnose any of these con...