Blood test guides

Plain-language explanations of the most common blood test values: what they measure, typical normal ranges, what high or low results can mean and when to talk to a doctor.

Full blood count results explained

A full blood count (FBC, also called CBC) measures your red cells, white cells and platelets. Here is what each abbreviation means and what high or low values can indicate.

High CRP: what your C-reactive protein result means

CRP is a protein made by the liver when there is inflammation in the body. Here is how to read your CRP value, what can raise it and when a high result needs attention.

Cholesterol levels: what is normal?

A cholesterol test (lipid profile) measures several kinds of blood fats. Here are the healthy ranges, how they differ by personal risk and what you can do if your numbers are high.

Liver function tests: what do high ALT, AST and GGT mean?

Liver blood tests measure enzymes and proteins that reflect how your liver is working. Mildly raised values are common – here is what they usually mean and which results need prompt attention.

TSH normal range: what does a high or low TSH mean?

TSH is the main blood test for thyroid function. Here is the usual normal range, how to read TSH together with free T4 and when an abnormal result needs treatment.