Question 1

What is Frequent Infections?

Accepted Answer

Frequent infections are recurrent illnesses that occur when your immune system cannot effectively fight off bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. They are caused by immune deficiencies, nutritional deficiencies like low vitamin C, chronic stress, or underlying health conditions that weaken white blood cell function. The Vitamin C blood test is the most important test for diagnosis because it measures a key nutrient essential for immune cell production and function.

Question 2

What causes frequent infections?

Accepted Answer

Frequent infections are caused by a weakened immune system that cannot effectively defend against pathogens. Common causes include nutritional deficiencies (particularly vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc), chronic stress, lack of sleep, autoimmune disorders, and conditions like diabetes that impair white blood cell function. Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking also compromise your immune response, making you more vulnerable to bacterial and viral infections.

Question 3

What is the best test for frequent infections?

Accepted Answer

The Vitamin C blood test is the most important test for frequent infections because it measures levels of this essential nutrient that directly supports immune function by stimulating white blood cell production. Low vitamin C levels significantly increase your susceptibility to infections and slow your recovery time. This test helps identify whether nutritional deficiency is compromising your immune system. Additional testing may include complete blood count (CBC) to evaluate white blood cell levels, vitamin D testing, and immunoglobulin panels to assess overall immune function.

Question 4

When should I get tested for frequent infections?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience more than 3-4 colds or infections per year, if infections take longer than usual to resolve, or if you notice wounds healing slowly. Testing is also important if you feel constantly run down, experience frequent sinus infections, ear infections, or bronchitis, or if you have recurring thrush or yeast infections. Early testing helps identify underlying nutritional deficiencies or immune problems before they lead to more serious complications.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of frequent infections?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms of frequent infections include recurring colds, flu, sinus infections, ear infections, urinary tract infections, or skin infections. You might experience chronic fatigue, slow wound healing, swollen lymph nodes, or frequent fever. Many people also notice digestive issues, oral thrush, or persistent coughs that linger for weeks. If you find yourself catching every bug that goes around or taking twice as long to recover as others, these are signs your immune system may need support.

Question 6

Who is at risk for frequent infections?

Accepted Answer

People at higher risk for frequent infections include those with poor nutrition, chronic stress, inadequate sleep, or sedentary lifestyles. Older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with diabetes, HIV, or autoimmune conditions have compromised immune systems. Smokers, heavy alcohol users, and people taking immunosuppressive medications are also more susceptible. Healthcare workers and parents of young children have increased exposure to pathogens, while individuals with obesity or vitamin deficiencies may have impaired immune function.

Question 7

What happens if frequent infections are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated frequent infections can lead to serious complications including chronic inflammation, organ damage, and sepsis in severe cases. Repeated infections can cause permanent tissue damage, such as scarring in the lungs from recurrent bronchitis or kidney damage from repeated urinary tract infections. Your immune system may become progressively weaker, creating a cycle of increasing vulnerability. Underlying nutritional deficiencies or immune disorders may worsen over time, potentially leading to hospitalization or life-threatening infections if not addressed.

Question 8

Can frequent infections be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, blood tests can identify underlying causes of frequent infections by measuring immune function markers and nutritional deficiencies. The Vitamin C test reveals whether low levels of this critical immune-supporting nutrient are contributing to your susceptibility. A complete blood count (CBC) evaluates your white blood cell levels and function, while immunoglobulin tests measure antibody production. Vitamin D, zinc, and iron levels can also be assessed through blood work, as deficiencies in these nutrients significantly impact immune strength.

Question 9

How are frequent infections treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for frequent infections focuses on addressing the underlying cause and supporting immune function. If vitamin C deficiency is identified, supplementation and dietary changes can restore optimal levels and improve immune response. Treating specific nutritional deficiencies, managing chronic conditions like diabetes, reducing stress, and improving sleep quality all strengthen immunity. Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections, while antiviral medications treat certain viral infections. Immunoglobulin therapy may be recommended for severe immune deficiencies.

Question 10

How can I prevent frequent infections?

Accepted Answer

Preventing frequent infections requires supporting your immune system through proper nutrition, adequate sleep (7-9 hours nightly), regular exercise, and stress management. Eat a diet rich in vitamin C (citrus fruits, bell peppers, broccoli), vitamin D, zinc, and protein to support white blood cell production. Wash your hands frequently, stay up to date on vaccinations, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, and maintain a healthy weight. Address any underlying nutritional deficiencies identified through blood testing and consider probiotic-rich foods to support gut health, which plays a major role in immunity.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with frequent infections?

Accepted Answer

Natural remedies that support immune function include increasing vitamin C intake through citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers, consuming garlic and ginger for their antimicrobial properties, and drinking plenty of water to flush out toxins. Elderberry, echinacea, and medicinal mushrooms like reishi have immune-boosting properties. Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and sauerkraut support gut health, which is essential for immunity. Getting adequate sunlight for vitamin D production, practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation, and ensuring quality sleep all naturally strengthen your immune defenses against infection.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Frequent Infections Blood Test

What is Frequent Infections?

What causes frequent infections?

What is the best test for frequent infections?

When should I get tested for frequent infections?

References

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