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.
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I had a health check with my private insurance and my total protein levels where 8.3, my albumin was 4.0 and my globulins where 4.3. I had the flu vaccine about a month before and I was fit and healthy prior to these.
I’m currently trying to get another test done to see what the results are but no-one will tell me what this could mean?
Other than some night sweets I don’t have any really symptoms that I know off. I’m not one to make a fuss so ignore most things.
Hi Rhonda, you do not need to wait. An upper respiratory infection and taking antibiotics will not effect your lab results (outside of what would be expected in an infection). You can have your lab tests done now.
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I have sore throat and runny nose. Can I still get blood test for iron level?