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The test is normally performed by taking a tiny sample of feces and applying it to a test strip or card. The test strip or card is subsequently delivered to a lab for evaluation. If blood is present, it reacts with a chemical on the test strip or card to create a noticeable colour shift.
The stool occult blood test is used to identify gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be a sign of several ailments, including diverticulitis, colon cancer, ulcers, and other digestive issues. It is frequently done as part of a regular health check-up, especially for people over 50 who have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer.

WHY IS A STOOL OCCULT BLOOD TEST DONE?

To identify the presence of concealed (occult) blood in the stool, a stool occult blood test is performed. This test is carried out to find minute amounts of blood that might not be visible to the naked eye and is frequently used as a screening device to find gastrointestinal bleeding.
Numerous disorders can result in gastrointestinal bleeding, including:

• Ulcers
• Diverticulitis
• gastrointestinal cancer
• Haemorrhoids
• Inflammation Bowel Disease (IBD)
• Anal fractures

The stool occult blood test can assist medical professionals in diagnosing, monitoring, and deciding whether further testing is required to identify the underlying source of the bleeding. The test is frequently done as part of a normal health check-up, especially for people over 50 who have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer.

WHO SHOULD GET TESTED FOR STOOL OCCULT BLOOD TEST?

The stool occult blood test is advised for people with symptoms such as rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits, as well as for people who have a higher chance of developing colorectal cancer.
Since people over 50 have a higher chance of developing colorectal cancer, it is generally advised that they get a stool occult blood test. People with a family history of colorectal cancer or other digestive diseases may also be advised to get the test by some medical professionals.
Additionally, your healthcare professional might suggest that you temporarily stop taking any medications, including aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs, before the test because they can result in inaccurate positive results.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR A STOOL OCCULT BLOOD TEST?

Following these steps will help you get ready for a stool occult blood test:

• Do not take certain drugs or foods: You might need to abstain from taking certain medications, such as aspirin, or eating certain foods, like red meat, before the test since they can result in false positive findings. You can get advice from your healthcare professional on what to avoid.
• Take a sample: In a container provided by your healthcare practitioner, you will be asked to gather a tiny sample of your stool. For the finest outcomes, it is crucial to adhere to the given guidelines and to get a brand-new sample.
• Observe dietary restrictions: You may need to adhere to a certain diet for a few days before the test depending on the type of stool occult blood test you are taking. For instance, you might need to refrain from taking iron supplements or eating fresh fruits and vegetables because these things can affect the test findings.
• Provide thorough details: When obtaining the sample, be sure to fill out the container with all pertinent information, including your name, birthdate, and any pertinent medical background.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully, and before the test, ask any questions you may have. You can aid in ensuring accurate and trustworthy findings by properly preparing for the stool occult blood test.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING STOOL OCCULT BLOOD TEST?

The stool occult blood test is a quick, painless process that usually only takes a few minutes. What to anticipate during the test is as follows:

• Stool sample collection: Your healthcare professional will ask you to gather a small sample of your feces and put it in a container.
• Sample testing: A laboratory will conduct the testing on the sample after it has been obtained. The sample will go through a chemical process to check for any undetected (occult) blood in the feces.
• Results: Within a few days, the stool occult blood test results will be made public. The results will be discussed with you by your healthcare provider, who will then decide whether further testing or treatment is required.

The occult blood test for stool is a painless and secure process. The test should not cause you to feel uncomfortable or have any negative consequences. It is crucial to talk to your healthcare practitioner if you have any worries or inquiries.

UNDERSTANDING THE STOOL OCCULT BLOOD TEST RESULTS

Using a stool sample, the stool occult blood test can determine whether there is concealed (occult) blood present.

1. Positive Test Result: A positive test result means that there is blood in the stool, which might be an indication of digestive system bleeding brought on by diseases including ulcerative colitis, colon cancer, or haemorrhoids.
2. Negative Test Result: A negative result means there was no evidence of blood in the stool sample. This does not indicate that there is always an underlying issue because there may be other causes of digestive tract bleeding that this test is unable to detect.
   It is crucial to remember that certain meals and drugs can affect the outcomes of the stool occult blood test, thus it is crucial to adhere to the laboratory's instructions for gathering and handling the sample.

Always seek the advice of a medical expert when interpreting test results and choosing the best course of action.

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