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What do the parameters mean?
Regularly checking certain blood parameters can provide valuable insight into your health and the functioning of your body. Each parameter measured in a blood test has specific meanings and provides important information about various body functions. Here is a detailed explanation of what each parameter means and its relevance to your health.
You can also find important information about nutrients and nutrient deficiencies at the consumer advice center or on the Barmer insurance website .
1. Sodium
Sodium is crucial for regulating water balance, nerve and muscle function, and blood pressure.
Possible findings
↑ Increased sodium levels (hypernatremia)
May indicate dehydration, kidney disease or excessive salt consumption.
↓ Low sodium levels (hyponatremia)
Can be caused by excessive fluid intake, kidney problems, heart failure or hormonal disorders.
2. Calcium
Calcium is important for bone health, muscle contraction, nerve function and blood clotting.
Possible findings
↑ Increased calcium levels (hypercalcemia)
May indicate conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, certain types of cancer, or vitamin D overdose.
↓ Low calcium levels (hypocalcemia)
Can be caused by vitamin D deficiency, kidney problems or an underactive parathyroid gland.
3. Magnesium
Magnesium plays a key role in muscle and nerve function, blood sugar regulation and protein synthesis.
Possible findings
↑ Increased magnesium levels (hypermagnesemia)
May occur with kidney failure, excessive magnesium intake or certain medications.
↓ Low magnesium levels (hypomagnesemia)
May indicate malnutrition, alcohol abuse, digestive problems or diabetes.
4. Ferritin
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron and releases it when the body needs it. It is a good indicator of iron storage in the body.
Possible findings
↑ Increased ferritin levels:
May indicate conditions such as hemochromatosis (excess iron accumulation), inflammation, liver disease or infection.
↓ Low ferritin levels
May indicate iron deficiency, which can lead to anemia, or chronic bleeding.
5. Folic acid
Folic acid (vitamin B9) is important for DNA synthesis, cell division and growth, especially during pregnancy.
Possible findings
↑ Increased folic acid levels
May occur rarely since excess folic acid is usually excreted in the urine, but may occur with excessive supplementation.
↓ Low folic acid levels
May cause megaloblastic anemia, birth defects in unborn children and increased risk of cardiovascular disease
6. Holotranscobalamin
Holotranscobalamin is the active transporter of vitamin B12 in the blood and is used as a marker for vitamin B12 status.
Possible findings
↑ Increased holotranscobalamin levels
May occur with excessive vitamin B12 supplementation.
↓ Low holotranscobalamin levels
May indicate vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to anemia, nerve damage, and cognitive impairment.
7. Vitamin D3 (25-OH vitamin D3)
Vitamin D3 is important for bone health, the immune system and general health.
Possible findings
↑ Increased vitamin D levels
May indicate an overdose of vitamin D supplements.
↓ Low vitamin D levels
May lead to bone weakness (osteomalacia), rickets in children and increased risk of chronic diseases.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about health checks
What is a health check?
What is a health check?
A health check includes a series of examinations designed to check general health and detect early signs of illness.
What tests are performed during a health check?
What tests are performed during a health check?
Typical tests include blood tests, blood pressure measurements, cholesterol levels, diabetes checks and, in some cases, special tests such as cardiovascular or liver function. The exact tests depend on the individual risk.
How often should I have a health check?
How often should I have a health check?
It is recommended to have a health check at least once a year, especially after a certain age or if you have a family history of health problems. Your doctor can help you create a personalized plan.
Can health checks prevent diseases?
Can health checks prevent diseases?
Health checks do not prevent diseases, but they help to detect them early, before serious symptoms appear. Early treatment often increases the chances of recovery.
Are health checks useful for everyone?
Are health checks useful for everyone?
Yes, regular health checks are useful for people of all ages, as many diseases do not show early signs. They are particularly important if there are risk factors such as being overweight, smoking or a family history of the disease.