Getting the most accurate results from your blood test starts with the right preparation. This guide covers everything you need to know so your results reflect your true health picture.
Fasting
Do I need to fast?
Yes. Unless your Everlab doctor has told you otherwise, fast for 8–12 hours before your blood draw.
Fasting means:
- ❌ No food
- ❌ No coffee, tea, or other drinks (other than water)
- ❌ No chewing gum
- ❌ No smoking (see Smoking section below)
Water is encouraged — staying well hydrated makes the blood draw easier and helps ensure accurate results.
What if I accidentally broke my fast?
Don't try to push through. Eating or drinking (other than water) can meaningfully change results for fasting glucose, insulin, and lipids. Reschedule your visit for another day when you can fast for a full 8–12 hours. You don't need a new referral — your existing one is still valid.
What if I've fasted for more than 14 hours?
That's fine. Small sips of water are okay, but try to get to your collection centre as soon as you can. Extended fasting beyond 14 hours is unlikely to affect results but may leave you feeling lightheaded.
Smoking
Should I avoid smoking before my blood test?
Yes — do not smoke for at least 12 hours before your blood draw. This aligns with your fasting window.
Best practice: If you smoke, treat the 8–12 hour fasting window as a no-smoking window as well. If you've smoked within a few hours of your appointment, let the collection staff know so your clinician can interpret results in context.
Illness and Feeling Unwell
Should I get my blood test if I have a cold, flu, or infection?
If you're feeling unwell, reschedule your blood test.
When should I reschedule to?
Wait until you've been symptom-free for at least 7 days before attending your blood test. This gives your inflammatory markers and immune system time to return to baseline.
You don't need a new referral — your existing referral remains valid for 12 months.
What about allergies or hay fever?
Seasonal allergies generally don't require rescheduling unless you're experiencing significant symptoms (fever, fatigue, sinus infection).
Medications and Supplements
Should I take my usual medications before my blood test?
Take your usual medications as prescribed, unless your Everlab doctor has specifically told you otherwise.
Quick-Reference Checklist
- Fast for 8–12 hours (water only — no food, coffee, tea, gum, or smoking)
- Attend first thing in the morning (ideally before 10am for hormone accuracy)
- No smoking for at least 12 hours before your blood draw
- If feeling unwell, reschedule and wait until symptom-free for 7 days
- Bring your referral, photo ID, and Medicare card
- Stay well hydrated — drink water before your appointment
- Take your usual medications unless your clinician advised otherwise
Comments
0 comments
Article is closed for comments.