Blood and blood vessels

Blood flows through blood vessels to carry oxygen, nutrients and waste around the body. Find out about different types of vessels and role of blood.

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Red blood cells

Red blood cells carry oxygen around your body and transport carbon dioxide to your lungs. Learn more about how your red blood cells work.

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White blood cells

White blood cells are part of your immune system. They help detect and deal with infections. Learn about health problems involving white blood cells.

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Blood types

You inherit your blood type from your parents. Learn more about blood types and why receiving the wrong type of blood can be dangerous.

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Full blood count (FBC)

A full blood count is a common blood test for general health, which can also provide information about a range of conditions.

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Blood donation

Australia relies on the generosity of donors who volunteer their time and blood. Learn more about the blood donation process and how to donate.

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Blood clots

Blood clots can cause different problems depending on where they are in your body. A blood clot can affect your heart, lung or brain, which could be life-threatening. Learn how to recognise the signs and symptoms of a blood clot.

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Folate blood test

Folate is an important nutrient for making red blood cells. The folate blood test checks whether you have enough folate in your blood.

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Blood in stool

Blood in your stool can indicate a more serious problem. If you see blood after a bowel movement, make sure you get it checked out. Find out more here.

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Blood in semen

Blood in your semen (haematospermia) can be alarming, but it is usually not serious. It will pass within a few days. Find out about blood in semen.

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Blood pressure medication

Blood pressure medicines ('antihypertensives'), such as ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers and diuretics help manage high blood pressure.

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Blood-borne viruses (BBVs)

Blood-borne viruses are viruses that are carried in the blood, like Hepatitis and HIV. Learn about treatment and prevention here.

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Blood tests A-Z

From the fasting blood glucose test to the prostate (PSA) test, there are many kinds of blood tests. Browse the index and learn how to prepare for your test.

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Guide to blood testing

Find out all about blood tests, including where to get a blood test in Australia, what happens when you have a blood test, and how long it takes.

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What is a healthy blood pressure?

It's important to have your blood pressure checked, as your blood pressureaffects blood flow to your organs. Discover more about this simple test.

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Magnesium blood test

A magnesium blood test checks your magnesium levels. Find out how to prepare for a magnesium blood test and what your results may mean.

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Hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar)

Hyperglycaemia is too much glucose (sugar) in your blood. Find out how this feels and what to do if your blood sugar is higher than it should be.

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Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar)

Hypoglycaemia is having too little glucose (sugar) in your blood. Find out what a ‘hypo’ feels like, and how to help someone with a low blood sugar.

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Iron studies blood test

Iron studies are blood tests that look at how much iron is in your blood and other cells. Too little or too much iron can cause health problems.

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Blood glucose test

Blood glucose tests (blood sugar tests) are used to diagnose and monitor diabetes. Find out how to prepare for this test and what your results mean.

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Blood in urine (haematuria)

There are many causes of blood in urine (wee), also called haematuria. Read about the causes, tests and when to see your doctor about blood in urine.

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Blood disorders

Blood disorders range from mild to life-threatening, and it is important to see a health professional if you suspect you may have one. Learn more about them here.

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Testosterone blood test

A testosterone blood test can show us how much of the sex hormone testosterone is in your body. Males usually have more testosterone than females.

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Oestrogen blood test

Oestrogen blood tests help us to understand hormone balance. Read more if you are planning pregnancy, are pregnant or your menstrual cycle is unusual.

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Blood transfusion

Blood transfusion is a safe procedure. Find out about the different types, why you might need a blood transfusion and what happens when you receive it.

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Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) blood test

The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a blood test that can check for inflammation in your body. Find out more about ESR blood tests here.

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How to lower your blood pressure

High blood pressure is common but often has no symptoms. Get tips to keep your blood pressure under control, including through lifestyle changes and medication.

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Calcium blood test

A calcium test indicates how much calcium is in your blood. Find out how this test helps doctors diagnose or monitor and treat your illness.

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Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Although low blood pressure (hypotension) is better than high, it can cause troublesome symptoms or be the sign of an underlying problem.

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Blood thinners

Blood thinners are medicines used to help prevent heart attacks and strokes by preventing blood clots from forming. Read more about how they work and who should take them.

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