Lactic Acid Test
What is a Lactic Acid Test?
A lactic acid test is a laboratory test used to measure the level of lactic acid in the blood. Lactic acid is a metabolic product produced by cells throughout the body during normal metabolism. The amount of lactic acid in the blood increases when the body is under stress, such as from physical or psychological stress. High levels of lactic acid can be a sign of certain medical conditions that need to be investigated.
Preparation for Lactic Acid Test
When preparing for a lactic acid test, it is important to tell your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking. Some medicines may interfere with the accuracy of the test. Also, your healthcare provider may advise to quickly stop taking medicines that may interfere with the lab test.
Lactic Acid Test Procedure
The lactic acid test is a simple procedure that does not require any special preparation. It involves taking a small sample of blood, usually from a vein in the arm. After the sample is collected, it is sent to the laboratory and the results are available within a few days.
Types of Lactic Acid Tests
There are two types of lactic acid tests: quantitative and qualitative. A quantitative lactic acid test measures the amount of lactic acid present in the blood. A qualitative lactic acid test measures the amount and type of acid present in the blood.
Risks of Lactic Acid Test
The lactic acid test carries few risks. The most common risk is a minor pain or discomfort when the needle is inserted into the vein, and it may cause some bruising. Risks may also include infection or excessive bleeding.
Why Lactic Acid Test is done?
A lactic acid test is done to measure the amount of lactic acid in the blood. High levels of lactic acid can be a sign of certain medical conditions that need to be investigated. These medical conditions can include (but are not limited to): heart failure, kidney failure, liver disease, shock, diabetes, and sepsis.
When a Lactic Acid Test is Done?
A lactic acid test may be ordered if your healthcare provider suspects that you have an underlying medical condition that is causing elevated levels of lactic acid in the blood. It may also be ordered if you are experiencing symptoms of lactic acidosis, such as muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, or confusion.
Interpreting the Results
The normal range for lactic acid in the blood is 0.5 to 2.2 millimoles/liter (mmol/L). A higher-than-normal lactic acid level may indicate a medical condition that needs to be investigated. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results of your lactic acid test with you and will recommend any additional tests or treatments that may be needed.
