Asthma Diagnosis: What Can a Blood Test Tell Us?
Understanding how blood tests can help assess and manage asthma
Diagnosing and managing asthma can involve several different tests. A blood test can provide additional information about the type of inflammation present, allergic responses, and, in some cases, which treatments may be appropriate.
In this video, Andrew Peters and Yasmin Ali from Northwestern University explain the role of blood testing in the diagnosis and management of asthma and what healthcare professionals can learn from specific blood markers.
In this video, you’ll learn:
- What a blood test can tell us about asthma
- How eosinophil levels can provide information about airway inflammation
- How blood test results can help guide treatment decisions in severe asthma
- What IgE can tell us about allergic asthma
- How allergy testing can help identify relevant environmental allergens
- What to expect when having a blood test and whether it is uncomfortable
- Whether any preparation is needed before the test
Why are blood tests used in asthma?
Blood tests can provide useful information about the type and pattern of inflammation associated with asthma. For example, eosinophil levels may provide information about eosinophilic inflammation, while IgE testing can help identify an allergic component in some people with asthma.
This information can be particularly useful when assessing severe asthma and considering treatment options. Blood test results are interpreted alongside symptoms, medical history, and other investigations rather than being used on their own to diagnose asthma.
Watch the video below to learn what blood tests can reveal about asthma and how the results may contribute to diagnosis and treatment.
What should I expect?
A blood test is a simple and generally safe procedure. A healthcare professional will take a small sample of blood, usually from a vein in your arm.
Your healthcare professional will let you know if any preparation is needed before the test. In most cases, blood testing is straightforward and takes only a few minutes. Also, your doctor will explain what your results mean and how they may contribute to your overall asthma assessment or treatment plan.
Please note: This video is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.
