In children, unlike adults, the chemical composition of blood plasma is variable. Significant deviations can be observed in newborns. As they grow older, the protein composition in the blood undergoes a number of changes. And only by the age of 14 are beta-lipoproteins and alpha-lipoproteins close to normal.
If your baby has poor appetite, he complains of pain in the abdomen, in which case a biochemical blood test may be required . The norm for children of different ages is their own, and only a doctor can correctly decipher the test results. An analysis is made of blood biochemistry to assess the functioning of internal organs or for the purpose of diagnosis.
As a rule, a metabolic set of tests consists of the following indicators:
- blood calcium and glucose levels;
- fluid and electrolyte balance;
- determination of kidney function.
How is a biochemical blood test decrypted ? The norm for each indicator is individual.
If the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood is greatly increased, this may indicate the presence of diabetes. If glucose, on the contrary, is underestimated, this already indicates hypoglycemia.
An increase or decrease in calcium levels may indicate a hormonal imbalance in the child’s body or a malfunction of the pancreas, bone tissue, and liver.
Trace elements such as potassium, sodium, electrolytes and carbonates are necessary to maintain an acid-base environment and regulate the fluid in our body. Also, without them, it is impossible to regulate the work of muscles, heart contractions and the brain, the slightest deviations will show blood chemistry.
The norm of calcium in newborns is from 1.9 to 3.5 mmol. Potassium - from 4.0 to 6.6 mmol. An increase in the concentration of urea and creatine in plasma signals problems in the kidneys.
What preparation is needed before conducting a biochemical blood test in children?
The norm and all deviations after passing the necessary tests will be voiced by a specialist. As for training, in an emergency, it may not be required. In other cases - 8 hours before going to the doctor you need to limit food intake (this does not apply to infants) in order to obtain objective information.
In newborns, blood sampling is carried out through the heel with a thin needle. For everyone else, through the elbow joint. The whole procedure takes no more than five minutes. To prevent medical instruments from causing panic in the baby, his attention should be diverted in various ways.
This procedure is performed using modern equipment, which allows you to literally get a biochemical blood test within one hour. The rate will subsequently be determined by the doctor. If significant deviations are found, a second examination may be required.
In general, the whole procedure is safe. In rare cases, a child may experience minor complications such as fainting, dizziness, and hematomas in the puncture area. It is better to prevent an existing disease at an early stage than to let it go to a more serious stage.
Only a biochemical blood test can detect any deviations in the internal organs. The norm in children under 14 years old is extremely different from that of an adult, so after receiving the result, be sure to consult an experienced doctor for clarification, only a specialist will be able to prescribe the correct treatment.
To keep your baby healthy and active, organize the right daily routine for him. Do not allow your child to be near the TV for a long time, take daily walks with him for 1.5 hours, teach him to play sports, and also monitor his diet. Then your children will be healthy, cheerful and cheerful.