Question 1

What is Infection?

Accepted Answer

Infection occurs when harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites invade the body and multiply. It is caused by pathogens that trigger inflammatory responses and immune system activation. The Sedimentation Rate, Modified Westergren test is the most important test for monitoring infection severity because it measures inflammation levels in the body.

Question 2

What causes infection?

Accepted Answer

Infection is caused by harmful microorganisms including bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes, viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2, fungi like Candida species, and parasites. These pathogens enter the body through breaks in the skin, respiratory droplets, contaminated food or water, or direct contact with infected individuals. Once inside, they multiply and trigger your immune system to fight back, causing inflammation and the characteristic symptoms of infection such as fever, fatigue, and localized pain or swelling.

Question 3

What is the best test for infection?

Accepted Answer

The Sedimentation Rate, Modified Westergren test is the most important blood test for monitoring infection severity because it measures how quickly red blood cells settle, which directly reflects inflammation levels in your body. During an infection, this rate increases significantly as your immune system responds. The Complement Component C3c and C4c test is essential for assessing immune system activation, as these proteins decrease when your body actively fights pathogens. The Post COVID-19 Expanded Panel is the best comprehensive option because it includes white blood cell counts that reveal whether you have an active infection based on elevated levels, along with markers that detect complications or underlying immune system problems.

Question 4

When should I get tested for infection?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have a persistent fever above 101°F that lasts more than 3 days, unexplained fatigue that interferes with daily activities, or localized symptoms like redness, swelling, and pain that worsen over time. Testing is particularly important if you have recently been exposed to someone with a contagious illness, notice symptoms after a surgical procedure or wound, or have a weakened immune system from conditions like diabetes or autoimmune diseases. Early testing helps identify the severity of infection and guides appropriate treatment before complications develop.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of infection?

Accepted Answer

Infection symptoms include fever and chills, body aches and muscle pain, extreme fatigue and weakness, headaches, and loss of appetite. You might notice localized symptoms such as redness, warmth, swelling, or pus at the site of infection. Respiratory infections cause coughing, sore throat, and difficulty breathing, while gastrointestinal infections lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping. Systemic infections can cause rapid heartbeat, confusion, dizziness, and in severe cases, sepsis with dangerously low blood pressure.

Question 6

Who is at risk for infection?

Accepted Answer

People with weakened immune systems are at highest risk, including those with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients taking immunosuppressive drugs, and individuals with diabetes. Older adults and infants have less robust immune defenses. Healthcare workers and people in crowded settings face increased exposure to pathogens. Those with chronic conditions like heart disease, lung disease, or kidney failure are more susceptible. Poor nutrition, lack of sleep, chronic stress, and lifestyle factors like smoking also compromise immune function and increase infection risk.

Question 7

What happens if infection is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated infections can spread from a localized area to the bloodstream, causing bacteremia or septicemia that affects multiple organ systems. This progression leads to sepsis, a life-threatening condition where the immune response damages your own tissues, causing organ failure, shock, and potentially death. Chronic untreated infections can cause permanent tissue damage, scarring, and loss of function in affected organs. Some bacterial infections lead to abscesses that require surgical drainage. Untreated infections also create antibiotic resistance when partially fought by your immune system, making future infections harder to treat.

Question 8

Can infection be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests can detect signs of infection by measuring inflammation markers, immune system activity, and white blood cell counts, but they do not identify the specific pathogen causing your infection. The Sedimentation Rate test shows inflammation levels, Complement Component tests reveal immune system activation, and complete blood counts detect elevated white blood cells indicating active infection. For specific pathogen identification, you need targeted tests like bacterial cultures, viral PCR tests, or antigen detection assays. Blood tests are valuable for monitoring infection severity, tracking treatment response, and detecting complications.

Question 9

How is infection treated?

Accepted Answer

Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics specific to the identified bacteria, such as amoxicillin for Streptococcus or ciprofloxacin for certain gram-negative bacteria. Viral infections like influenza may require antiviral medications like oseltamivir, while many viral infections resolve with supportive care including rest, hydration, and fever reducers. Fungal infections need antifungal medications like fluconazole. Severe infections require hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics, fluid support, and monitoring. Treatment duration ranges from 7-14 days for most infections, though some require longer courses to prevent recurrence.

Question 10

How can I prevent infection?

Accepted Answer

Prevent infection by washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using the bathroom. Stay up to date with vaccinations including flu shots, COVID-19 boosters, and other recommended immunizations. Avoid close contact with sick individuals and stay home when you are ill. Practice safe food handling by cooking meat thoroughly, washing produce, and avoiding cross-contamination. Keep wounds clean and covered until healed. Strengthen your immune system through adequate sleep, regular exercise, stress management, and a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

Question 11

What can I do at home for infection?

Accepted Answer

At home, get plenty of rest to allow your immune system to focus energy on fighting the infection. Stay well-hydrated by drinking water, herbal teas, and clear broths to help flush toxins and maintain body functions. Use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and discomfort. Apply warm compresses to localized infections to increase blood flow and reduce pain. Consume immune-supporting foods like citrus fruits high in vitamin C, garlic with antimicrobial properties, yogurt with probiotics, and zinc-rich foods like nuts and seeds. However, seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or persist beyond a few days.

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.

Infection Blood Test & Lab Work

What is Infection?

What causes infection?

What is the best test for infection?

When should I get tested for infection?

References

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