Routine Blood Tests List: A Comprehensive UK Guide

Routine blood tests are one of the most useful ways to keep a check on your health. They help assess your blood count, organ function, hormone levels, cholesterol and blood glucose levels, as well as possible nutritional deficiencies. The tests included in a routine check-up can vary based on a person's symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. In this guide, we mentioned some common routine blood tests, when each test may be needed, and what they assess. 

What Does a Routine Blood Test Mean?

A routine blood test is a set of standard checks used to assess different aspects of your general health. The laboratory measures specific markers in your blood sample and compares the results with established reference ranges. Your doctor then reviews the results together, rather than focusing on individual numbers, to identify any abnormalities and understand what they may indicate about your health.

Why Doctors Recommend Routine Blood Tests?

You don't necessarily need to be sick to have a blood test. Your doctor may recommend routine health checks depending on several factors, including your age, gender, medical history and current symptoms. These standard routine checks may be suggested for several reasons, including:

• To assess your overall health
• To identify potential health concerns at an early stage
• To investigate unexplained symptoms
• To monitor an existing medical condition
• To check how well a treatment or medication is working

10 Common Routine Blood Tests

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

If you are experiencing persistent tiredness, weakness, breathlessness, unexplained bruising or bleeding, your doctor might advise you to have a Full Blood Count (FBC). An FBC test measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. It also measures your haemoglobin (Hb), haematocrit and red blood cell distribution width (RDW).

The results help assess your blood's oxygen-carrying capacity, the number and condition of RBCs, WBCs and platelets. An FBC also helps in investigating the underlying cause of anaemia, infections and other blood disorders.

Kidney Function Tests (RFTs)

Swollen ankles, changes in urination and persistent nausea may be linked to kidney problems. Your doctor may recommend a Kidney Function Test (RFTs) to measure how well the kidneys are functioning and determine the level of urea, creatinine, sodium and potassium in your blood. 

A Kidney Function Test also measures an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) that gives an idea of what percentage of kidneys are working normally. These tests can help investigate conditions such as chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury and electrolyte imbalances. Fasting is not usually required for this single test.

Liver Function Tests (LFTs)

Liver Function Tests (LFTs) measure specific enzymes and other substances in your blood to check for signs of liver damage. They include ALT, AST, ALP and GGT, along with bilirubin and albumin. Your doctor may recommend LFTs if you experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, slow digestion, skin rash, and persistent fatigue. 

Lipid Profile

A comprehensive lipid profile measures the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglycerides in your blood. This test can help assess your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have irregular heart rhythm, persistently high blood pressure, diabetes or a family history of heart disease. Fasting is usually not required, but your doctor may request it if your triglyceride levels need further assessment or if a previous non-fasting result was unusually high.

Blood Glucose and HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin)

A blood glucose test measures the amount of sugar (glucose) in your blood at the time of testing. HbA1c (glycated haemoglobin) measures the amount of glucose attached to haemoglobin in red blood cells, providing an estimate of average blood glucose levels over the previous three months.

These tests help identify and monitor diabetes. Your doctor may ask for these tests in case of increased thirst, frequent urination or unexplained weight loss or if you have risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Only a fasting blood glucose test requires at least eight hours without food. Other glucose tests may not. HbA1c does not require fasting.

Thyroid Function Tests

Persistent fatigue, unexplained weight changes, sensitivity to cold or heat, and changes in heart rate may lead your doctor to recommend a thyroid function test. It measures thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which controls thyroid hormone production, and thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism and other body functions. The results help detect conditions, such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). 

Inflammation Test

Inflammation marker tests measure substances in your blood that may indicate inflammation in the body. Doctors may recommend these tests to investigate symptoms or assess inflammatory conditions. Common examples include C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).

Vitamins and Minerals Tests

Vitamin and mineral tests measure the levels of essential nutrients in your blood. They can help identify nutritional deficiencies that may affect your energy levels, immunity, bone health and general wellbeing. Common tests include vitamin D, vitamin B12, folate, iron and ferritin, and calcium.

Iron Studies and Ferritin

Iron screening helps assess the amount of iron available in the blood and the body's iron stores. They may include serum ferritin, which measures stored iron, serum iron and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), which helps assess the blood's capacity to transport iron.

These tests are requested when FBC shows low haemoglobin or if you experience tiredness, weakness, breathlessness, or heavy menstrual bleeding. Low ferritin can indicate depleted iron stores, while increased levels might indicate inflammation and other factors. 

Vitamin B12 and Folate

Vitamin B12 test checks for healthy red blood cell production and DNA synthesis and evaluates normal nerve function. Testing may be recommended if you experience persistent fatigue, weakness, numbness or tingling in your hands and feet, or symptoms of anaemia. 

Other Blood Tests That May Be Recommended

Beyond these commonly requested investigations, some tests focus on particular areas of health, such as inflammation, vitamin levels, hormone balance and blood clotting. They help in investigating a more specific concern or a particular health marker. These may include:

• Vitamin D test
• C-reactive protein (CRP)
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
• Hormone tests
• Coagulation tests 

How to Prepare for a Routine Blood Test

Most blood tests require little or no preparation. Your healthcare professional will let you know if fasting is necessary or if you need to follow any specific instructions. If fasting is required, drink only plain water for the specified period. Do not stop prescribed medication unless advised by your healthcare professional, and inform the person taking your sample about any medicines, vitamins or supplements you take.

Bottom Line

Routine blood tests are a simple way to keep track of your health, identify potential concerns and monitor existing conditions. The tests you need will depend on your age, medical history and individual health requirements. At The National Blood Test Clinic, you can explore a range of private blood tests to check important health markers and better understand your wellbeing. Choose a suitable test and order online for convenient home testing or testing through our partner clinics.