1. Blood test
Depending upon what your doctor is looking for, any of the following may be tested:
- how smoothly your blood flows through your vessels
- the time it takes for your blood to clot, as well as the level of a clotting component called fibrinogen
- your blood cholesterol levels
- your blood sugar (glucose) level
- your blood calcium levels
- your blood hemoglobin levels
- liver function
- thyroid function
- renal function.
It is important to know that although blood tests can indicate your risk of having heart disease or other health conditions, often other confirmatory tests are needed to diagnose many diseases.
What is involved?
No special preparation is needed. Blood is drawn from a vein in one arm.
- Your arm is first cleaned with an antiseptic.
- A tourniquet (an elastic band) or a blood pressure cuff is placed around the upper arm, which causes the veins in the lower arm to fill with blood.
- A needle is inserted into the vein and the blood is collected in a vial or syringe.
- Once blood is taken, the needle is removed and a bandage is applied.
2. Urine test
Although it isn't always possible at the time of your initial examination, a simple urine test can help your doctor diagnose conditions related to stroke including blood clots, kidney disease, other metabolic diseases or diabetes.
What is involved?
You will be given a container to collect a sample. Try to collect your sample "midstream." As you start to urinate, allow a small amount to fall into the toilet bowl. Then, catch about 1 to 2 ounces (30 to 60 mL) and remove the container from the urine stream.
