Oestradiol
The Oestradiol Blood Test measures the levels of oestradiol in your blood. In women aged 50 and above, particularly those nearing menopause, oestradiol levels typically drop to their lowest, which can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, infertility, and an increased risk of osteoporosis. Hormonal imbalances can have a significant impact on both physical and mental health. Men who are concerned about abnormal breast tissue growth, as well as women experiencing irregular menstrual cycles, can use this test to help identify the underlying cause. The results are accompanied by a detailed report and personalized comments from a certified doctor.
FSH
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary glands and plays a crucial role in sexual health. As one of the gonadotropic hormones, alongside Luteinizing Hormone (LH), FSH helps regulate the function of the ovaries and promotes the growth of ovarian follicles. It also contributes to the production of oestradiol, a key hormone in the reproductive process. Due to its essential role in female fertility, FSH is a key component of Welzo’s advanced female fertility home test, designed to support and monitor optimal reproductive health.
HDL % of total
The HDL (high-density lipoprotein) percentage of total cholesterol measures the proportion of “good” cholesterol (HDL) relative to your total cholesterol levels. This biomarker helps assess cardiovascular risk by comparing the amount of beneficial HDL cholesterol to harmful LDL cholesterol and overall cholesterol. Healthcare providers and heart disease risk calculators use this percentage to evaluate your overall cardiovascular health.
Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol measures the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood, including both HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein). Cholesterol is produced by the liver and plays a vital role in various bodily functions, such as producing vitamin D, bile, and forming the membranes of all your body’s cells. It also aids in transporting fatty acids throughout the bloodstream. Monitoring cholesterol levels is a key indicator of heart health, as it can reveal potential risks for cardiovascular issues, including heart disease and heart attacks.
HbA1c
Glycated hemoglobin, commonly known as HbA1c, provides a reliable long-term measure of blood glucose levels. Hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells, is responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. When glucose enters the bloodstream, it binds to hemoglobin, and because red blood cells typically live for about 14 weeks, HbA1c levels reflect average blood sugar over the past three months. This makes HbA1c testing an essential tool for monitoring diabetes and assessing pre-diabetic risk, offering valuable insights into glucose control over a longer period.
Free Triiodothyronine (FT3)
FT3, or free tri-iodothyronine, is one of the key hormones produced by the thyroid gland. Despite making up a smaller fraction compared to FT4, FT3 plays a significant role in thyroid health, with its deficiency or excess contributing to many thyroid-related disorders. A menopause blood test measures the amount of FT3 that is unbound to proteins, providing valuable insights into thyroid function.
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), also known as thyrotropin, is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. It plays a crucial role in regulating thyroid function and can be used to diagnose both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Imbalances in TSH levels—either excessive or insufficient secretion—can lead to a variety of symptoms, including weight changes, anxiety, palpitations, disrupted sleep patterns, and irregular menstrual cycles. Hypothyroidism, in particular, shares several overlapping symptoms with menopause, which can sometimes make diagnosis challenging.
Cortisol
Cortisol, a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, plays a crucial role in regulating various physical and mental processes in the body. Often referred to as the “stress hormone,” cortisol is typically released during times of perceived stress. However, its functions extend beyond stress response—it is also vital for regulating metabolism and supporting immune functions. Cortisol levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day, peaking in the morning upon waking and reaching their lowest point by evening. To ensure accurate measurement of cortisol at its highest levels, it’s essential to take your blood test first thing in the morning, shortly after waking.
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme present in the liver, kidneys, bones, and digestive system. Elevated ALP levels in the bloodstream, exceeding the reference range, may indicate liver disease or a bone disorder.
Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT)
The gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) test measures the level of the GGT enzyme in the blood. GGT plays a crucial role in transporting molecules and assisting with the metabolism of toxins and drugs in the liver. Elevated GGT levels can indicate liver damage or disease, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis. This test is also valuable for diagnosing bile duct infections and monitoring alcohol use or abuse.
Albumin
Albumin is a protein found in blood plasma, and it plays a key role in binding substances, similar to SHBG. Produced by the liver, albumin is essential for maintaining the balance of fluids in the bloodstream by preventing fluid leakage from blood vessels. Additionally, measuring albumin levels can help detect potential issues with kidney or liver function.
hs-CRP
To assess inflammation levels, we performed an advanced C-Reactive Protein (CRP) evaluation. CRP is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation and serves as a key biomarker for detecting elevated inflammation. High CRP levels are closely linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack and stroke. Elevated CRP is also commonly found in individuals with chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, as well as those who have recently experienced a heart attack or stroke. While CRP is not specific to any one disease, it remains a crucial indicator of systemic inflammation.
Testosterone
Testosterone, often referred to as the male hormone, is primarily found in males, although it is also present in smaller amounts in females. In males, it plays a crucial role during growth, contributing to the maturation of reproductive organs, the development of masculine traits (such as facial hair), the distribution of muscle mass, and the regulation of metabolism. In females, testosterone helps influence muscle mass, fat distribution, and the production of red blood cells. Elevated testosterone levels can lead to an increased risk of blood clots due to a higher red blood cell count. Conversely, low testosterone levels can result in the loss of lean muscle mass, erectile dysfunction, and reduced libido.
LDL Cholesterol
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is a type of cholesterol that helps transport fats, including triglycerides, throughout the body. However, it is often called “bad” cholesterol because elevated LDL levels increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, such as heart disease and heart attacks. When LDL levels are high, it can contribute to the buildup of fatty deposits in the walls of arteries, leading to a condition known as atherosclerosis, which can restrict blood flow and cause severe heart-related issues.
Non HDL Cholesterol
In this test, we will not only measure your HDL and LDL cholesterol levels but also perform a non-HDL cholesterol check. Non-HDL cholesterol represents all the harmful cholesterol in your blood and serves as a key indicator for assessing cardiovascular health. Ideally, non-HDL levels should be below 4 mmol/L. By monitoring your HDL and LDL levels, we can track the effects of any dietary or lifestyle changes, allowing you to optimize your health based on your personalized cholesterol profile.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are a type of blood fat that plays a vital role in your body’s overall function. They serve as the primary storage form of fat and can be converted into energy when needed. Produced by the liver, triglycerides are essential for energy storage and metabolism. However, elevated triglyceride levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems. For this reason, it’s important to regularly monitor your triglyceride levels as part of your overall cholesterol screening.
Iron
Iron is a vital mineral found in the blood that plays a key role in producing hemoglobin, a protein responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body via red blood cells. Without sufficient hemoglobin, muscles cannot receive enough oxygen, impairing their ability to function properly. Maintaining the right amount of iron is crucial for overall health, as iron deficiency can lead to fatigue and anemia. The body’s iron reserves come from the diet and the breakdown of old red blood cells. When iron levels are low, adjustments to the diet or the use of supplements can help restore balance.
Common Biomarkers for Iron Deficiency:
Ferritin: A protein that stores iron in the body.
Iron: The amount of iron in the blood.
Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC): A measure of the blood’s ability to bind iron.
Transferrin Saturation: The percentage of transferrin (a protein that transports iron) that is bound to iron.
Unsaturated Iron-Binding Capacity (UIBC): A measure of the reserve capacity of transferrin to bind iron.
Free Thyroxine (FT4)
FT4 (free thyroxine) is one of the two primary hormones produced by the thyroid gland. Although it is produced in greater amounts than FT3, FT4 acts as a precursor, or reservoir, for FT3. When the body requires more FT3, FT4 is converted into FT3. Most of the thyroxine in the bloodstream is not bound to proteins. A Menopause blood test can help detect imbalances in these hormones, identifying potential thyroid-related issues, such as deficiencies or excesses.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a crucial nutrient that supports various functions in the body, particularly bone and muscle health. It can be obtained from food, supplements, and fortified products. Insufficient vitamin D levels can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis and muscle weakness. The optimal range for vitamin D levels is typically between 20 to 50 ng/mL. If your levels fall below this range, we may recommend vitamin D supplements or encourage you to include vitamin D-fortified foods in your diet to help restore balance.
Bilirubin
When red blood cells break down, they produce a brownish-yellow pigment called bilirubin. A buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream can lead to jaundice or indicate liver disease.
Alanine transferase (ALT)
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme primarily produced by liver and heart cells. ALT testing measures the concentration of this enzyme in the bloodstream, but it does not directly indicate the extent of liver damage. This test is valuable for assessing liver health, particularly in cases involving drug use, heavy alcohol consumption, or viral infections such as hepatitis. While lower ALT levels are generally associated with a healthy liver, normal ALT ranges can vary depending on factors like age and sex.
Total Protein
Total Protein measures the levels of two main types of proteins in the blood: Albumin and Globulin. Albumin plays a crucial role in preventing fluid from leaking out of the bloodstream, helping maintain proper fluid balance. Globulin, produced by both the liver and the immune system, is essential for immune function. It strengthens the immune system by combating germs and infections, contributing to the body’s defense against illnesses.
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)
An Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) test measures the level of the enzyme in the blood to assess whether it is within the normal range. AST is primarily found in the liver, muscles, heart, and other tissues throughout the body. Elevated AST levels can indicate tissue damage, particularly in the areas where the enzyme is concentrated. As a key enzyme, AST plays a crucial role in facilitating important chemical reactions in the body.
Creatine Kinase
Creatine Kinase (CK) is an enzyme found in the muscles of your body. It plays a vital role in energy production within muscle cells. Elevated levels of creatine kinase can signal muscle damage or injury, as the enzyme is released into the bloodstream when muscles are stressed or harmed. Additionally, creatine kinase supports heart function, and an increase in CK levels can be a sign of a heart attack, ranging from mild to severe, indicating potential heart damage.