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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

High blood pressure (hypertension)

High blood pressure affects around 1 in 3 Australian adults, so it's important to know your risk of hypertension and how to prevent it.

Read more

D-dimer test

The D-dimer test is a blood test that checks for, or monitors, blood-clotting problems. Find out what a positive result means for you.

Read more

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.

Read more

Blood pressure medication

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

Read more

Cholesterol and lipid tests

Read about cholesterol (or lipid profile) blood tests, which look at cholesterol and other fats in your blood, and what the results mean.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

C-reactive protein (CRP) blood test

The C-reactive protein (CRP) test is a blood test that checks for inflammation in the body. Find out when it may be done and what your results mean.

Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

HbA1c test

Find out about the HbA1c test — a type of blood test used to help diagnose diabetes and monitor blood sugar control in people with diabetes.

Read more

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a blood disorder that increases the risk of blood clots and pregnancy complications. Learn more here.

Read more

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.

Read more