Question
How long should I wait after a cold before getting my blood test?
5 September 2016. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load, Other tests.
I have a cold/slight touch of the flu and I was due for my blood tests today, however I have reschedule them until next week. My question is: how long does it take for your CD4 to go back my normal range… How long should I wait after a cold before getting my blood test?
Answer
Hi,
Thanks for your question.
Your CD4 count and viral load can be affected by other viruses, such as the flu. It is possible therefore that your test results might be affected by your recent infection. Unfortunately as everyone has a unique immune system, the time it takes to recover from a cold or flu will vary and this may be reflected in your test results. It’s also worth noting that a cold will likely have less of an effect than definite flu (influenza).
As this may be hard to predict, you can ask the doctor to check CD4 percentage as well as your CD4 count. Follow this link for more information about CD4%.
It’s also possible that your viral load could blip above undetectable because of an infection. If your viral load has increased you should have another test to check the result. This means you may be better off going for your tests as planned and rescheduling them again if anything looks out of the ordinary. You can also give your clinic a call beforehand and ask if they have any recommendations for rescheduling.
Hi Ram, at i-base we are not doctors and cannot provide medical advice. Please speak with your doctor about your concerns.
Hi. I’m a female. 40 yrs old. Sporty.
I got sick like 3 times in 3months. Last time it was 2-3 weeks. Bad flu, fevers, body aches, joint aches, sinus, a bit of cold. I’m back to work and still not feeling 100%. Got my blood work and it shows low WBC, low RDW and low neutrophiles. Can it be due to the flu?
Or should I be concerned about other unknowing health condition?
Hi Kathleen, as with all things it is best to inform your doctor of how you are feeling when blood tests are being done. They can then determine if there is an actual change in your blood count or if it is a symptomatic change based on your current cough/cold.
Hi I have CLL Leukaemia so my white cell count is always raised I had my full blood count done while I had my cough and cold but had to have it done again today nurse said there were 1 or 2 doctor was concerned about should I have said I had a bad cough and cold ?
Hi Jaydene, you can have your thyroid tested now. You do not need to wait until you feel better.
Hi I have a runny nose sore throat and cough but I need to get my thyroid tested do I wait a few days or can I just go?
Hi Michael, please telephone about your appointment. If you now just tested positive for COVID you should stay home and not go to a hospital.
Michael tested positive for covid blood tests booked for tomorrow do I go or have then rescheduled
Hi Judy, yes he can still have the blood test.
Hi, my husband has a cold and doctor ordered a blood test to recheck elevated protein. Can he go ahead and hace the blood test? Thank you.